South San Francisco, CA April 19, 2018
Chief Jess Magallanes
Upon the retirement of South San Francisco Fire Chief Gerald Kohlman and a nation wide search for his replacement was exhausted it was clear that SSF Interim Chief Jess Magallanes was the best choice to take the reigns. Magallanes has spent 21 years with SSFFD working through the ranks excelling at each step preparing for this position. For decades the City of South San Francisco has been dedicated to encouraging personnel to take advantage of programs in place that bring skills in leadership preparing our own employees for advancement.
Magallanes, who earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Human Biodynamics from UC Berkeley, is also a California State Fire Marshal Certified Chief Officer, State Fire Marshal Level 1 Instructor, and California Incident Command Certification System (CICCS) qualified Strike Team Leader, among many other certifications.
“I’m thankful to have had the chance to work alongside Chief Kohlmann, and am excited to continue in his footsteps with what he has done to improve this Fire Department,” Chief Magallanes was quoted. “South San Francisco is a dynamic city with a top notch Fire Department capable of responding to any emergency which may arise. I am humbled and excited to lead what I know to be one the best Fire Departments in the Bay Area.”
The Chief’s duties include leading the members of the SSFFD in fire suppression, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, urban search and rescue, rescue boat operations, code enforcement, fire investigation, public education, disaster preparedness and ambulance transport services.
Chief Magallanes is an excellent choice as he continues with South City traditions and values in working with our community and has earned the respect in his leadership role.
“I am pleased with the selection of Jess Magallanes as our new Fire Chief,” said Mayor Liza Normandy. “The South City knowledge and experience he brings to this position will keep the South San Francisco Fire Department one of the finest in the County. I want to thank Chief Gerry Kohlmann for his service and for helping with the transition.”
[…] You are invited to attend our Change of Command Ceremony honoring our South San Francisco Fire Chief Jesus Magallanes Thursday, June 21, 2018 at 10:30 a.m. at Fire Station #61 located at 480 N. Canal Street in South San Francisco. Light refreshments will be served. Magallanes has taken the helm of the Department upon the retirement of Chief Kohlman in April. More on our new Chief CLICK HERE. […]
I met the new Fire Chief, and he impressed me with his friendliness, knowledge about his department and how it fits in with the rest of the county. Nice to have him represent the best of what is good about So. City.