Final answer:
The deputy fire chief assists the fire chief in administrative and operational tasks and often acts in their stead when they are unavailable. They play a critical role in managing and coordinating fire control and rescue operations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When there is a civilian GS-0081 fire chief, the deputy fire chief typically holds a position that is a step below the fire chief in the command hierarchy of a fire department. This deputy is often tasked with supporting the fire chief, overseeing various administrative and operational aspects of the fire department, and sometimes acting in the chief's stead when they are unavailable. While specific titles and responsibilities can vary by department, the deputy fire chief is a vital part of a fire department's leadership, contributing to the management and coordination efforts required to control and extinguish municipal fires, protect life and property and conduct effective rescue efforts.