Opportunity
The Sacramento Regional Fire/EMS Communications Center (SRFECC) is seeking a visionary and operationally driven Deputy Director of Operations to lead one of the region’s most critical public safety lifelines. In this pivotal role, the successful candidate will oversee high-performance dispatch operations connecting communities to life‑saving fire and EMS resources across Sacramento. Working alongside a dedicated team of communications professionals, the Deputy Director will drive operational excellence, enhance systems and procedures, and ensure rapid, reliable emergency response when seconds matter most.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced leader to shape the future of regional emergency communications by strengthening partnerships, empowering staff, and making a direct impact on the safety and resilience of the communities served by the SRFECC.
About SRFECC
The SRFECC is a highly trained team of public safety professionals who dispatch fire protection and emergency medical service personnel to residents calling 9‑1‑1 in the Sacramento region. The Center serves as a Secondary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP), receiving calls from local law enforcement agencies that serve as the Primary PSAP under state law. By pooling resources from several fire agencies, the SRFECC provides seamless service across local governments spanning approximately 1,000 square miles.
The Center handles one of the highest call volumes of all dispatch centers in the U.S., answering nearly 500,000 calls per year and serving a population of 1.61 million people across roughly 984 square miles. The 60‑person FTE dispatch team receives 500–1,000+ emergency 9‑1‑1 calls daily using phone, computer, and radio technologies at a centralized location.
Supported by a FY 25/26 operating budget of $14.2 million, the SRFECC earned its first Accredited Center of Excellence (ACE) status from the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) in July 2024.
Leadership is provided by a Chief Executive Director appointed from member agencies on a rotating basis. The Deputy Director of Operations and Deputy Director of Administration oversee the operations and admin divisions, respectively, reporting to the Chief Executive Director. The Deputy Director of Operations heads the Dispatch Operations team, comprising three Dispatch Managers, four supervisors, and 42 dispatchers.
Position
Under the direction of the Chief Executive Director, the Deputy Director of Operations provides executive‑level leadership and strategic oversight of all operational functions within SRFECC. The Deputy Director ensures continuous, compliant, and high‑reliability emergency communications services while advancing organizational strategy for workforce sustainability and operational excellence.
Key responsibilities include translating the agency’s vision and Board direction into operational plans; serving as a strategic advisor on operational risk and service delivery; leading continuous improvement initiatives using data and industry best practices; assisting in the development and administration of the operational budget; collaborating with fire, EMS, law enforcement, and partner agencies; leading long‑range planning related to staffing, technology, and operational resilience; and overseeing training standards, certification compliance, and professional development of staff.
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience as a PSAP manager; an understanding of the complexity of operations within a busy communications center; experience in a Fire/EMS or other public safety organization; a people‑centric leadership style focused on developing, mentoring, and coaching staff; a transparent communication style; and familiarity with technology and “smart tools” associated with PSAP operations.
Salary & Benefits
The salary range for the Deputy Director of Operations is $166,278 to $202,243, with placement in the range depending on experience. SRFECC offers an excellent benefit package including retirement provided by CalPERS with a 2% at 62 formula (highest average over consecutive 36 months). Accrued/Unused Sick Leave may be converted to service credit upon retirement.
For additional benefit information, interested candidates are encouraged to review the detailed recruitment brochure at
Application & Selection Process
To be considered for this position, interested candidates must submit a cover letter and résumé no later than Monday, April 27, 2026, at
Confidential inquiries are welcomed to:
Bryan Noblett | | (916) 217‑3696
Qualifications
- Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Emergency Management, or related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
- Experience: Significant progressively responsible leadership experience in a 9‑1‑1 communications center or similar environment. Demonstrated experience leading managers and complex operations, along with strong knowledge of emergency communications operations and regulatory requirements.
- Certification: An APCO Certified Public‑Safety Executive Program (CPE) certificate is preferred.