About the opportunity
The primary purpose of this position is to serve as Assistant Chief of Operations in charge of the management and control of one of two alternating 24-hour shifts. The incumbent supervises all firefighters in fire ground situations and oversees the performance, care, and maintenance of apparatus and equipment. Responsibilities include participating in the administration and planning of comprehensive fire prevention, firefighting, and rescue programs. The Assistant Chief serves as the on-scene commander of fire or crash scenes until relieved by the Fire Chief or Deputy Fire Chief, supervises fire alarm communication center operations, and performs supervisory personnel management duties, including advising employees on policies and procedures.
Salary and benefits
- Salary range: $71,076 – $92,394 per annum
- Federal employee benefits package
- Special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters under FERS and CSRS
- Eligibility for disabled veteran leave for qualifying veterans
Who can apply?
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-09 grade level in Federal service
- Must possess one year of specialized experience in controlling/extinguishing fires, rescue operations, hazard reduction, communications equipment, hazardous materials incidents, or fire training
- Must meet Federal Time-in-Grade (TIG) requirements if currently in or having held a GS position within the last 52 weeks
- Must hold specific certifications: Fire Officer III, Fire Instructor II, Fire Inspector II, HAZMAT Incident Commander, and Airport Firefighter
- Must be able to obtain and maintain required certifications
Required documents
- Resume (maximum two pages, font size at least 10 pts, must include hours worked per week and dates of employment)
- Completed online application questionnaire
- Copies of transcripts if qualifying based on education
- Active, current registration/license if required for the position
- SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action (for current or former Federal employees)
- DD Form 214 or VOW certification memo (for veterans or active duty service members)
- SF-15 form (for 10-point veteran preference)
- Copies of individual certifications or DoD Fire and Emergency Services Certification Program transcript
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 2026-09-04
How to apply
- Create or log in to a USAJOBS account
- Complete the online application questionnaire
- Upload all required documents, ensuring they contain your full name
- Submit the application package via the USAJOBS portal by the deadline
Additional information
- This position is covered under special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters
- The announcement may result in a 120-day register to fill similar vacancies
- Applicants must have direct deposit for salary payments
- Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) and Priority Placement Program (PPP) eligibles may apply
- Military Spouse Preference (MSP) is available for eligible applicants
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Firefighters with specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent.
- Professionals holding required certifications including Fire Officer III and HAZMAT Incident Commander.
- Individuals comfortable managing 24-hour shift operations and emergency response teams.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires physical presence in Niagara Falls, NY, for 24-hour shift work.
- Applicants must meet strict Federal Time-in-Grade requirements if currently in a GS position.
- The position involves high-stakes emergency response and on-scene command responsibilities.
- Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain specific DoD Fire and Emergency Services certifications.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is well-suited for a career firefighter aiming for an Assistant Chief of Operations role within the federal system. It provides a clear pathway for professional growth in emergency management and offers specialized federal retirement provisions, making it a strategic move for someone committed to long-term service in fire and rescue operations.
Our take
Highly qualified fire service professionals with the necessary certifications should apply; those unable to commit to 24-hour shift work or the specific location in Niagara Falls should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
