Fire Chiefs lead and manage fire prevention and emergency response operations across Department of National Defence facilities and installations. In this role, you oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of fire safety programs, emergency preparedness, and firefighting operations that protect military personnel, civilians, and critical defence infrastructure. You are responsible for developing fire prevention strategies, managing fire department budgets and resources, ensuring compliance with federal and provincial fire codes, and leading your team through both routine operations and emergency situations.
As a Fire Chief, you will work in a dynamic, safety-critical environment where quick decision-making and strong leadership are essential. Your responsibilities include supervising firefighting personnel, conducting training and drills, investigating fire incidents, implementing fire safety improvements, and liaising with other government agencies and emergency services. You may work at major DND installations, bases, or facilities across Canada, where your expertise directly contributes to force readiness and the safety of the defence community.
This position requires a commitment to continuous learning in fire prevention technology, emergency management practices, and leadership development. You will balance administrative duties with hands-on operational involvement, ensuring your fire prevention program meets the highest standards of professionalism and effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
Perform fire prevention duties supporting public safety and security, Conduct assessments, investigations, and monitoring activities, Enforce regulations and respond to incidents, Prepare reports and maintain operational records
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
To qualify as a Fire Chief in the DND civilian workforce, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum educational requirement. Most candidates hold post-secondary credentials such as a diploma or degree in fire science, fire prevention, emergency management, or a related field. Professional certifications are essential for this role and include credentials such as Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS), Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation, or equivalent provincial fire certification. You should also hold or be willing to obtain certifications in Incident Command System (ICS), hazardous materials awareness, and advanced fire investigation. The Public Safety Training Institute and Canadian Fire Safety Association offer relevant professional development opportunities. Once hired, DND provides ongoing training in defence-specific protocols, security procedures, and leadership development programs to prepare you for managing fire operations at federal installations.
Entry Plans
Entry into the Fire Chief position typically occurs through federal government job competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca) and the DND Civilian Workforce careers site. The Public Service Commission (PSC) manages these competitive processes, which evaluate candidates based on education, certifications, professional experience, and demonstrated leadership abilities. Most candidates enter at this level after gaining several years of progressive experience as a firefighter and fire officer with provincial, municipal, or industrial fire services. Lateral moves from other federal emergency management or safety positions may also be possible depending on qualifications. Some candidates may enter through specific recruitment initiatives or priority hiring pools targeting experienced fire service professionals. During the competition process, you can expect technical assessments, interviews focusing on leadership and operational decision-making, and verification of professional certifications and security clearance requirements.
Part-Time Options
Fire Chief positions in the DND civilian workforce are typically full-time, permanent positions due to the operational and leadership responsibilities required. However, flexible work arrangements such as compressed work weeks or adjusted shift schedules may be negotiated based on operational needs and departmental policies. Remote work is generally limited for this role, as your presence at the fire station or facility is essential for emergency response readiness, staff supervision, and day-to-day fire prevention operations. Some administrative components of the role, such as report writing, budget planning, or training material development, may be completed off-site when operationally appropriate. DND encourages work-life balance through Employee Assistance Programs, flexible leave options, and wellness initiatives. If you are considering this career, discuss specific scheduling and flexibility options during your job interview and with your manager once hired, as arrangements can vary by location and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
