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Contract Fire Chief Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Dalmatian Fire, Inc.

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Oversee and execute full-cycle project pursuits from initial estimation and expert-level job costing to contract award and final hand-off. * Proactively recruit, hire, and manage top-tier Fire Alarm ...

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Chief Engineer - Data Centers

New Albany, OH ยท On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

... units, fire and life safety systems * Creating, managing, and executing standard Method of ... Effectively manage, supervise, and evaluate contract technical labor team * Ensure compliance with ...

Provide operating cost estimates and comparisons in regard to service contracts, R&M estimates ... fire/life safety programs, plumbing, HVAC and electrical issues; must remain current with latest ...

Provide operating cost estimates and comparisons in regard to service contracts, R&M estimates ... fire/life safety programs, plumbing, HVAC and electrical issues; must remain current with latest ...

Provide operating cost estimates and comparisons in regard to service contracts, R&M estimates ... fire/life safety programs, plumbing, HVAC and electrical issues; must remain current with latest ...

OH ยท On-site

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. * Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. * Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. * Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. * Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

... fire safety, emergency procedures, and security protocols. * Monitor and control departmental expenses, including maintenance contracts, utility expenses, and capital expenditures, aligning with the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Contract Fire Chief information

See Ohio salary details

$29.5K

$100.4K

$174K

How much do contract fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract fire chief in Ohio is $100,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,200.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract fire chief?

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.

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 the most commonly searched types of Fire Chief jobs in Ohio?

The most popular types of Fire Chief jobs in Ohio are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Fire Chief jobs in Ohio?

For Contract Fire Chief jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Contract Fire Chief jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Contract Fire Chief job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Fire Chief job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,372 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Dalmatian Fire, Inc.

EMCOR Group Inc

Columbus, OH โ€ข On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

We are a full service fire sprinkler contractor that offers layout, design, fabrication, and installation for nearly every type of wet and dry sprinkler system, as well as a full range of specialty systems. Additionally, we also design and install fire pumps, standpipes, and fire water storage tanks, and perform various types of fire-related inspections.


Dalmatian Fire is seeking a dynamic, growth-focused Fire Alarm Division Manager. In this high-impact position, you will own the end-to-end strategic growth, sales generation, and operational excellence of our Fire Alarm Division.

#dalfire #shambaugh #LI-TS #LI-Onsite


  • Spearhead the regional expansion of the Fire Alarm Department by actively prosecuting new business opportunities and leveraging a deep network of industry contacts.
  • Oversee and execute full-cycle project pursuits from initial estimation and expert-level job costing to contract award and final hand-off.
  • Proactively recruit, hire, and manage top-tier Fire Alarm Technicians, utilizing your industry presence to pull elite talent into our group.
  • Supervise all divisional personnel and field projects to guarantee safely executed, profitable, and on-time completions.
  • Review incoming inspection reports to efficiently price, pitch, and sell deficiency correction projects.
  • Direct the ordering, forecasting, and inventory control of all required fire alarm parts and materials.
  • Other duties as assigned

  • 5+ years of dedicated professional experience in the Fire Alarm industry.
  • Proven track record in specialized commercial sales and leadership within a high-paced contracting business.
  • Expert-level proficiency in structural estimating, project bidding, and accurate job costing.
  • Significant, demonstrated experience collaborating with General Contractors, Electrical Contractors, and specialized fire alarm stakeholders.
  • Prior experience estimating, designing, or managing projects within Data Center environments is highly preferred.
  • Active NICET II certification (or a clear commitment to obtaining it rapidly) is preferred.
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills with a natural capability to lead, influence, and build a high-performing group from the ground up.
  • Regular and reliable attendance, including the ability to work extended hours and weekends as required

As a leading provider of mechanical and electrical construction, facilities services, and energy infrastructure, we offer employees a competitive salary and benefits package and we are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Please review our Affirmative Action Policy.


Notice to prospective employees: There have been fraudulent postings and emails regarding job openings. EMCOR Group and its companies list open positions here. Please check our available positions to confirm that a post or email is genuine.
EMCOR Group and its companies do not reach out to individuals to help with marketing or other similar services. If an individual is contacted for services outside of EMCORs normal application process it is probably fraudulent.

As a leading provider of mechanical and electrical construction, facilities services, and energy infrastructure, we offer employees a competitive salary and benefits package and we are always looking for individuals with the talent and skills required to contribute to our continued growth and success. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

Compensation Range: $90k to $120k 

Other Compensation: Bonus eligible

Benefits: We are committed to providing employees a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with health savings and flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability, a 401(k) Savings Plan, College Coach and employee assistance program.