Job Responsibilities

The Assistant Fire Chief of Training is responsible for the development, management, and implementation of comprehensive training programs for fire and emergency response personnel. This role ensures the department maintains operational readiness and personnel achieve compliance with fire service standards. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Leading and managing the Fire and Emergency Services (F&ES) training program, ensuring alignment with current fire service standards and certifications.
• Designing and implementing tailored training programs that meet the needs of a multi-national fire department workforce.
• Supervising all aspects of firefighter training, including classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, drills, and simulations.
• Evaluating personnel performance during training exercises and readiness drills, providing feedback and adjustments for continuous improvement.
• Ensuring all personnel achieve and maintain fire service certifications, including fulfilling the ongoing training requirements set forth by applicable standards (e.g., NFPA, DoD, and Navy-specific requirements).
• Developing and maintaining a schedule of required certification courses, ensuring compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Overseeing the procurement, maintenance, and upkeep of training equipment and materials.
• Establishing training policies, procedures, and guidelines to ensure consistency and safety during exercises.
• Maintaining detailed training records and preparing reports for audits, inspections, and compliance purposes.
• Serving as the primary liaison to external training organizations, certifying bodies, and other stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements

• A minimum of three years of experience leading an F&ES training section or division in a fire department of similar size and scope to that of Diego Garcia.
• Certification as Assistant Chief of Operations and Fire Instructor III, in accordance with recognized fire service training standards.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering comprehensive training programs for fire and emergency personnel.
• Strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills with the ability to mentor and manage a diverse, multi-national team.
• Ability to successfully pass contract medical requirements and maintain compliance for the duration of deployment.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain facility credentials/authorization.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in an austere OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) environment with a multi-national workforce.
• Valid country driver’s license.
• Country visa (as required in line with the U.S. Department of State Foreign Clearance Guide).
• Advanced coursework in fire service-related leadership, training delivery, and firefighting tactics.
• Familiarity with training standards outlined by NFPA, DoD, and Navy-specific requirements.
• Background in procuring and maintaining training-related equipment and resources.
• Proven track record of conducting large-scale training exercises and simulations in challenging environments.