Deputy Chief of Safety and Risk
The Town of Durham is hiring for the position of Deputy Chief of Safety and Risk. The Deputy Chief of Safety and Risk manages and advances the Fire Department’s Safety Management System (SMS) and Community Risk Reduction (CRR) components, including policy development, records management, information technology, data management, reporting, and analytics. This role may serve as the third-in-command of the department, reporting directly to the Fire Chief.
The Deputy Chief may serve as Acting Fire Chief in the absence of the Fire Chief and Assistant Chief, respond to emergency incidents as necessary, and is empowered to act within the spirit of the department’s mission and strategic goals. This posting is not meant to be inclusive of all job duties or qualification requirements. Please see job description for further details.
Applicants must successfully complete and pass all written, practical, and oral assessments prescribed by the Durham Fire Department and hiring requirements for the State of New Hampshire. Candidates must successfully complete psychological, medical, and background pre-employment screening.
Experience: Applicant must have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience as a full-time firefighter/EMT or equivalent professional experience. Experience as a chief officer, company officer, or training officer strongly preferred.
Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in related field preferred.
Residency Requirement: Preferred residency within twenty (20) miles or thirty (30) minutes from Durham within six (6) months of appointment.
Preferred Certifications: Possession of a valid commercial driver’s license along with certifications as a New Hampshire Certified Fire Officer II (or Pro Board equivalent), and Nationally Registered Emergency Medical Technician.
The salary range for the position is $93,874 to $119,476. This is a full-time, non-union, position and includes a competitive benefits package.
For consideration, please email a cover letter, resume, and completed Town of Durham job application to durham.fire@unh.edu to the attention of:
Chief David F. Emanuel
Durham Fire Department
51 College Rd
Durham, NH 03824
The full position posting and Town of Durham job application may be found on the Town’s website: https://www.ci.durham.nh.us/fire/durham-fire-department-job-opportunity-deputy-chief-safety-risk
Application deadline is Friday, November 7, 2025, at 4:00 pm. Position will remain open until filled.
The Town of Durham is an equal opportunity employer.