Meet Chief Jeffrey Devlin | Rural Metro Fire Knox County
With over three decades of dedicated service to Knox County's emergency response community, Fire Chief Jeffrey Devlin brings unmatched experience and leadership to Rural Metro Fire Knox County. Promoted to chief in 2024 after serving as interim chief and five years as deputy chief of operations, Jeff leads one of Tennessee's most respected fire and emergency services organizations.
A Career Built on Professional Excellence
Chief Devlin's commitment to professional development spans his entire career in the fire service. He holds a bachelor's degree in professional studies from the University of Memphis and a master's degree in emergency management from the University of Tennessee. As a 2014 graduate of the prestigious National Fire Academy's Executive Fire Officer Program and a 2015 recipient of the Chief Fire Officer designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, he represents the highest standards of fire service leadership in Tennessee.
Leading Rural Metro Fire in Knox County
Under Chief Devlin's leadership, Rural Metro Fire operates 17 strategically located fire stations throughout Knox County, supported by a team of more than 200 firefighters and support staff. The organization provides subscription fire protection and emergency services to nearly 250,000 residents across Knox County and the Town of Farragut, responding to approximately 18,000 emergency calls each year.
With roughly 60% of calls involving medical emergencies, Rural Metro's firefighter/EMTs and firefighter/paramedics deliver comprehensive emergency response, including:
Fire suppression and structural firefighting
Emergency medical services (EMS)
Technical rescue operations
Hazardous materials (HazMat) response
Leadership Philosophy
"Having a position as chief allows me to have more influence and use it to do good and great things for our people and for the people of Knox County who we serve," Chief Devlin explains. "The men and women of Rural Metro Fire are some of the most skilled and dedicated emergency services personnel in the country. It is my honor to be their fire chief."
Community Commitment in Farragut and Knox County
Chief Devlin's dedication extends far beyond the firehouse. A cornerstone of the Farragut community for years, he has coached in the Farragut Youth Lacrosse League and currently coaches the Webb Middle School lacrosse team. His civic involvement includes eight years of service on Farragut's Social Services Committee, membership on the Board of Zoning Appeals, participation in the Municipal Planning Commission, and active membership in the Rotary Club of Farragut.
Jeff Devlin embodies the spirit of service that defines Rural Metro Fire — protecting lives, strengthening communities, and leading with integrity every day.
Learn more about Rural Metro Fire Knox County or sign up for subscription fire protection services in Knox County and Farragut, TN.
