Darryl Oliveira, who has served nine years as Hawaii County fire chief, will retire Aug. 1 just after his 50th birthday.

Oliveira made the announcement at the June 8 Fire Commission meeting.

He has worked for the Fire Department for 30 years and was the first chief selected by the commission instead of the mayor. Oliveira has also served as firefighter, paramedic, rescue specialist, captain and fire equipment operator.

"It’s been a very rewarding and satisfying career," he said, adding that he’s worked in almost every community on the island and met a lot of people within the community.

He said he is proud of depoliticizing the department’s promotion process.

Oliveira said he is leaving so promising firefighters can move up through the ranks.

Oliveira plans to continue with fire services activities, work on projects with the Hawaii Fire Chiefs Association and teach classes in fire science at Hawaii Community College.

Candidates for the chief’s position must have a minimum of five years’ firefighting experience and three years’ administrative experience, and hold a rank of captain and above. Candidates may come from outside the department.

Oliveira has offered to stay on voluntarily to assist in selecting the next chief and helping the person make the transition into the position.