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Contract Fire Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Qwalifize LLC

Assistant Fire Chief

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Type: * 3 months to 1 year contract with additional option years. Full Time or Part Time ... This senior leadership role assists the Fire Chief in directing daily operations, supervising ...

Qwalifize LLC

Fire Chief

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45 - $62.50/hr

Type: * 3 months to 1 year contract with additional option years. Full Time or Part Time ... The Fire Chief provides direction for departmental planning, budgeting, policy development, and ...

Constellis

Fire Inspector

Independence, MO · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY To perform fire prevention visits under the direct supervision of the Fire Chief ... Must meet all physical and psychological standards as required by the contract QUALIFICATIONS

City of Corvallis

Fire Battalion Chief

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$10K - $13K/mo

Receives confidential contract materials, and develops strategies during labor negotiations ... fire codes and ordinances. May participate in Duty Chief coverage rotation with other Chief ...

City of Corvallis, OR

Fire Battalion Chief

Corvallis, OR · On-site

$10K - $13K/mo

Receives confidential contract materials, and develops strategies during labor negotiations ... fire codes and ordinances. May participate in Duty Chief coverage rotation with other Chief ...

City of Corvallis

Fire Battalion Chief

Corvallis, OR · On-site

Receives confidential contract materials, and develops strategies during labor negotiations ... fire codes and ordinances. May participate in Duty Chief coverage rotation with other Chief ...

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Contract Fire Chief information

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$31K

$105.6K

$183K

How much do contract fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract fire chief in the United States is $105,577.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Fire Chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Fire Chief, you need extensive experience in fire service management, emergency response, and a background in fire science or a related field, often supported by certifications such as Fire Officer or Chief Fire Officer. Familiarity with incident command systems, emergency management software, and compliance with NFPA standards is crucial. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential for managing teams and coordinating with multiple agencies. These abilities are vital for ensuring effective emergency response, safety compliance, and the overall success of contracted fire protection services.

What is the difference between Contract Fire Chief vs Fire Captain?

AspectContract Fire ChiefFire Captain
CredentialsFire officer certifications, executive leadership experienceFirefighter certifications, leadership training
Work EnvironmentAdministrative, strategic planning, high-level decision makingOn-scene incident command, firefighting operations
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, fire districts, emergency management agenciesFire departments, emergency services teams

The Contract Fire Chief typically oversees fire department operations, focusing on strategic planning and administration, while the Fire Captain manages on-the-ground firefighting and incident command. Both roles require fire service certifications, but the Contract Fire Chief emphasizes leadership and policy, whereas the Fire Captain is more operational. Understanding these differences helps agencies hire the right professional for their needs.

What are Contract Fire Chiefs?

Contract Fire Chiefs are experienced fire service professionals hired by private companies, government agencies, or organizations on a contractual basis to manage and oversee fire department operations. Unlike permanent, full-time fire chiefs employed directly by a city or municipality, contract fire chiefs typically serve for a specified period and may be brought in to oversee special projects, manage transition periods, or provide leadership in remote or specialized environments. Their responsibilities include supervising fire personnel, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, developing emergency response strategies, and managing budgets. They bring valuable expertise and flexibility, especially in situations where a permanent fire chief is unavailable or not feasible.

What are some typical challenges a Contract Fire Chief might face when managing teams across multiple client sites?

A Contract Fire Chief often oversees fire safety operations at various client locations, which can introduce challenges such as aligning different site protocols, managing dispersed personnel, and ensuring consistent training standards. Communication and adaptability are key, as each site may have unique hazards or client expectations. Building cohesive teams and maintaining high morale despite geographical separation are important, alongside ensuring all sites comply with safety regulations and contractual obligations.
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Contract Fire Chief jobs near you

Assistant Fire Chief

Qwalifize LLC

Leesburg, VA • On-site

$38 - $55/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Type:

  • 3 months to 1 year contract with additional option years.

Full Time or Part Time:

  • Full-Time

Pay Rate:

  • $38.00 – $55.00 per hour (negotiable).

Location:

  • TBD – Onsite
  • Must be willing to relocate anywhere in the US.

Language Requirements:

  • Write, read, and speak English

Language Preferences:

  • Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Assistant Fire Chief to support the leadership, management, and operational oversight of fire rescue services, emergency response, and fire prevention programs.

This senior leadership role assists the Fire Chief in directing daily operations, supervising personnel, managing emergency response activities, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and departmental policies. The Assistant Fire Chief may oversee divisions such as operations, training, fire prevention, or emergency medical services (EMS), and may serve as acting Fire Chief in their absence. Candidates must hold or be eligible to obtain a security clearance and maintain it as required. Clearance level is to be determined. Performs other duties as assigned.

Experience Requirements

  • Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in fire service, including supervisory or command-level experience
  • Experience in fire suppression, emergency medical services (EMS), and incident command operations
  • Experience supervising personnel, including training, scheduling, and performance management
  • Experience assisting with budgeting, planning, and resource allocation
  • Strong knowledge of fire codes, life safety regulations, and emergency response protocols
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills

Experience Preferences

  • Experience in a municipal or county fire department leadership role
  • Experience overseeing training programs, fire prevention, or EMS operations
  • Familiarity with accreditation processes and ISO ratings
  • Experience coordinating with emergency management agencies and community stakeholders

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to respond to emergency incidents and perform command-level duties in the field
  • Ability to work in high-stress and emergency situations
  • Ability to attend meetings, trainings, and operational briefings

Education Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Emergency Management, or a related field

Education Preferences

  • Master's degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Emergency Management, or a related field

Training Schedule:

  • TBD

Schedule:

  • Varies based on operational needs; includes availability for emergency response, nights, weekends, and holidays

Dress Code:

  • TBD

Benefits:

  • TBD

Additional Information:

Drug screening, background, and reference checks are performed if required. Valid identification and reliable transportation are required. We are an E-Verify employer. We will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. Our employees are authorized to work in the United States.