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District Fire Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Minneapolis

Deputy Fire Chief

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

Evaluate the job performance of District Fire Chiefs or Staff Fire Captains and conduct one on one coaching sessions to improve job performance * Respond to multiple alarm incidents to augment the ...

Town of Garner

Deputy Fire Chief (Operations)

Garner, NC · On-site

$104K - $131K/yr

... in-district training facility. The position is responsible for performing executive level ... Assists the Fire Chief with departmental management; assists with decisions in unusual situations ...

City of Pocatello

Fire Chief

Pocatello, ID

The Fire Chief directs, manages, and oversees all activities of the Fire Department in order to ... The incumbent also serves as the Chief Administrator of the Bannock County Ambulance District and ...

City of Little Rock

Assistant Fire Chief

Little Rock, AR · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

... Division/District Chief, or an equivalent command-level position within a municipal fire department and must possess a Bachelor's Degree. Applicants/employees must meet any other requirements ...

City of Turlock

Fire Marshal

Turlock, CA

$11K - $14K/mo

Represents Fire Chief in his absence, as required. Plans, organizes, assigns, and reviews the work ... District Attorney's office in arson cases. Represents the Department as an expert court witness in ...

Osceola County

Division Chief

Kissimmee, FL · On-site

$100K/yr

Supplemented by one (1) year experience at the rank of Battalion/District Chief in a similar, liked sized Fire Department. Certifications/Licenses: Must possess a valid Florida Paramedic License and ...

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$31K

$105.6K

$183K

How much do district fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for district 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 does 555 mean to a firefighter?

In firefighting, 555 is a common radio code used to indicate a fire or emergency situation. It helps firefighters quickly communicate the presence of a fire or urgent incident over the radio network. Understanding and using such codes is part of standard communication protocols for fire department personnel.

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

To thrive as a District Fire Chief, you need extensive experience in fire service operations, leadership, and incident management, typically supported by advanced fire science education and relevant certifications such as Fire Officer or Chief Fire Officer. Familiarity with emergency management systems, resource allocation software, and compliance with NFPA standards is essential. Exceptional decision-making, communication, and crisis leadership skills set outstanding candidates apart. These qualifications and skills ensure effective emergency response, personnel management, and public safety across the district.

What are some of the unique challenges District Fire Chiefs face when managing multiple fire stations?

District Fire Chiefs are responsible for overseeing several fire stations, which requires exceptional coordination, communication, and leadership skills. One of the main challenges is ensuring consistent training, operational standards, and resource allocation across all stations, while also addressing the unique needs of each community served. Chiefs must balance administrative duties with emergency response oversight, often making quick decisions during high-pressure situations. Building strong relationships with station captains, municipal leaders, and the public is also essential for maintaining effective fire protection and emergency services.

What does a district fire chief do?

A district fire chief oversees fire department operations within a specific district or area, managing personnel, coordinating emergency responses, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. They often develop training programs, conduct inspections, and work with community stakeholders to improve fire safety. The role requires leadership skills, knowledge of firefighting techniques, and relevant certifications such as Fire Officer or Incident Command training.

How old is the average fire chief?

The average fire chief is typically between 45 and 55 years old, often having many years of experience in firefighting and emergency management before advancing to the role. Most fire chiefs hold advanced certifications and have completed leadership training, with many reaching the position in their late 40s or early 50s.

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

AspectDistrict Fire ChiefFire Captain
CertificationsFire Officer Certifications, EMT/ParamedicFirefighter Certifications, EMT/Paramedic
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple fire stations and districtsManages a single fire station or team
ResponsibilitiesStrategic planning, administrative duties, district oversightDirect firefighting operations, team leadership

The District Fire Chief and Fire Captain roles differ mainly in scope and responsibilities. The District Fire Chief holds a higher administrative position overseeing multiple stations and strategic planning, while the Fire Captain manages daily firefighting operations within a station. Both roles require similar certifications, but their work environments and duties vary significantly.

What is the highest paid fire department?

The highest paid fire departments are typically in large metropolitan areas with extensive budgets, such as New York City Fire Department and Los Angeles Fire Department. Fire chiefs in these departments often earn salaries exceeding $200,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and additional certifications. Compensation can also include benefits like pensions and overtime pay.

What are District Fire Chiefs?

District Fire Chiefs are senior fire department officials responsible for overseeing multiple fire stations within a specific geographic area known as a district. They manage emergency response operations, coordinate resources, supervise fire officers and firefighters, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. District Fire Chiefs also play a key role in developing training programs, responding to major incidents, and liaising with other emergency services and community leaders. Their leadership ensures effective and efficient fire protection and emergency services within their district.
More about District Fire Chief jobs
What states have the most District Fire Chief jobs? States with the most job openings for District Fire Chief jobs include:
What job categories do people searching District Fire Chief jobs look for? The top searched job categories for District Fire Chief jobs are:
District Fire Chief jobs near you

Deputy Fire Chief

East Fork Fire Protection District

Minden, NV • On-site

$143K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description
EAST FORK FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
NOW HIRING FOR DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF
Application period closes on June 28, 2026
The East Fork Fire Protection District is seeking an experienced and progressive individual for its next Deputy Fire Chief. The ideal candidate will have a strong fire service background with leadership and decision-making abilities, good communication skills, experience and knowledge of the fire service, problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, integrity and ethics, adaptability, and strong sense of collaboration and teamwork.
The District employs three Deputy Fire Chiefs: the Deputy Fire Chief of Emergency Operations, the Deputy Fire Chief/Fire Marshal, and the Deputy Fire Chief of Business Operations. The current vacancy is for the Deputy Fire Chief of Business Operations, a key executive leadership position responsible for providing strategic direction, leadership, and oversight of the District's business and support functions. Areas of responsibility include but not limited to, facilities management, fleet operations, support services, inventory management, budgeting within assigned programs, and other critical logistical and administrative functions. As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the Deputy Fire Chief of Business Operations plays an integral role in advancing the District's mission, organizational effectiveness, and long-term strategic objectives.
The salary range is between $143,992 to $176,360 plus the use of a District vehicle. The District also has a generous benefit package that includes a state retirement plan (NV PERS), medical, dental and vision premiums paid by the District for the the whole family, as well as paid vacation, sick and administrative days, uniform pay, and rHRA Retirement Health Account contribution.
Step 1 of the assessment and selection process requires the submission of a resume, cover letter, and response to four essay questions, which will be provided to you by email.
To be considered for the position, you must complete and submit all required materials to HR@eastforkfire.org no later than June 28, 2026.
POSITION SUMMARY:
Responsible for overseeing specific areas of responsibility and implementing strategic goals set by the District Fire Chief within the East Fork Fire Protection District.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for assigned areas/programs; assists in coordinating the preparation and administration of the annual budget in assigned areas of responsibility; plans, organizes, administers, reviews, and evaluates the activities of staff directly and through subordinate managers and supervisors.
  • Manages staff and activities within assigned responsibility area.
  • Coordinates training efforts with assigned staff.
  • Manages interaction between functions to ensure efficient and effective services; procures and manages implementation of communications hardware and software; ensures products meet all applicable standards and needs of the District and partner agencies.
  • Coordinates emergency response efforts with other jurisdictions and agencies.
  • Provides/approves discipline, hiring, promotion, and evaluation for personnel assigned as subordinate staff.
  • Works collaboratively with labor representatives and Human Resources to reach decisions and negotiate outcomes.
  • Attends and/or makes presentations at board meetings, interagency, committee, and other meetings and conferences.
  • Directs the conduct of and conducts analytical studies and programs; develops and reviews reports of findings, alternatives and recommendations; directs the maintenance of accurate records and files.
  • Acts as front-line responder and manager of large-scale and complex incidents; acts as Interim District Fire Chief as required or assigned.
  • Responsible for safeguarding District assets.
  • Other duties as assigned. May oversee or be assigned to major functional areas of the District.
  • Contributes to the overall quality of the District's service provision by developing and coordinating work teams and by reviewing and recommending improved policies and procedures.
  • Represents the District with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with town, community, and professional organizations, other fire agencies, districts, departments, county, city and state agencies and offices, federal agencies, and other service organizations.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's Degree in fire science, business or public administration, or a related field; AND seven (7) years of fire command experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience as determined by the District Fire Chief.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
Knowledge of:
  • Administrative principles and practices, including goal setting, program development, implementation and evaluation, and the management of employees through multiple levels of supervision.
  • Principles and practices of developing teams, motivating employees and managing in a team environment.
  • Principles and practices of budget development and administration.
  • Applicable laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations.
  • Principles and practices of developing and administering an effective, all hazard training program for both volunteer and career personnel.
  • Correct business English, including spelling, grammar and punctuation.
  • Computer applications involving word processing, data entry and/or standard report generation.
  • Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment.
  • Business letter writing and the standard format for typed materials.
  • Techniques for dealing with a variety of individuals from various socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, often in situations that may be stressful.

Skill in:
  • Planning, organizing and administering assigned functions in a comprehensive fire suppression and prevention and emergency medical response system.
  • Administering programs and staff through subordinate supervision.
  • Training others in policies and procedures related to the work.
  • Developing and implementing goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards.
  • Developing effective work teams and motivating individuals to meet goals and objectives and provide customer services in the most cost effective and efficient manner.
  • Interpreting, applying and explaining complex federal, state and local laws related to the areas of responsibility.
  • Preparing clear and concise reports, correspondence and other written materials.
  • Using initiative and independent judgment within general policy guidelines.
  • Taking effective action in emergency situations.
  • Enforcing laws, ordinances and regulations with firmness, tact and impartiality.

REQUIRED CERTIFICATES AND LICENSES:
  • Nevada Valid Class A, B, C (with an "F" endorsement) driver's license or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.
  • Nevada or IFSAC Fire Officer I, II, and III Certification, California Chief Fire Officer Certification; OR equivalent Fire Officer Certification as determined acceptable by the District Fire Chief.

PREFERRED CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:
  • Completion of National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) OR equivalent Fire Officer Certification as determined acceptable by the District Fire Chief.
  • NWCG Red Card Type 3 Incident Commander (Regional) OR equivalent Fire Officer Certification as determined acceptable by the District Fire Chief.

ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES- APPLIES TO FIRE MARSHAL:
  • Certification as a Plans Examiner, or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of employment.
  • Certification as a Fire Inspector II, or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of employment.
  • Certification as a Public Information Officer (PIO), or the ability to obtain certification within one (1) year of employment.
  • Ability to obtain State Fire Marshal status within one (1) year of employment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Mobility to inspect various residential, commercial or industrial properties or other facilities which may include standing for extended periods of time, stooping, kneeling and walking on uneven terrain at construction sites, climbing ladders, scaffolding and stairs; stamina to serve as emergency incident commander; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over the telephone; hear fire alarms, speakers, horns, and bells being tested; regularly lift up to 50 pounds.
Work is subject to performance under adverse environmental conditions in life threatening environments; exposure to bodily fluids, solvents, chemicals, fumes, smoke, electrical current and other hazardous substances.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:
  1. Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.
  2. New employees are required to submit to a fingerprint-based background investigation, a drug/alcohol screening and a psychological examination. Employment is contingent upon passing the background investigation, drug/alcohol screening and the drug/alcohol screening, and psychological examination.
  3. EFFPD participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS, with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All candidates who are offered employment must complete Section 1 of the Form I-9 along with the required proof of their right to work in the United States and proof of their identity prior to starting employment. Please be prepared to provide required documentation as soon as possible after the job offer is made.

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