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Fire Chief Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Under the general direction of the Battalion Chief (Fire/EMS Specialist II), the Fire Captain supervises firefighting companies in the suppression of fires, emergency medical services, fire ...

Position Overview As the Chief Engineer at avid hotel , you will lead the hotel's engineering ... In this hands-on leadership role, you will oversee mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and fire ...

Position Overview As the Chief Engineer at avid hotel , you will lead the hotel's engineering ... In this hands-on leadership role, you will oversee mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and fire ...

Chief Financial Officer Reports To: President Reports: (4 Direct, 36 Indirect) Position Location ... Company Overview Silco Fire & Security isn't just a company, it's a mission. Every day, our team ...

Job Title Senior Chief Engineer Summary ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provide leadership ... fire safety and emergency action plans, life safety programs, quality control for domestic and ...

Job Title Senior Chief Engineer Summary ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provide leadership ... fire safety and emergency action plans, life safety programs, quality control for domestic and ...

Job Title Senior Chief Engineer Summary ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provide leadership ... fire safety and emergency action plans, life safety programs, quality control for domestic and ...

Job Title Senior Chief Engineer Summary ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Provide leadership ... fire safety and emergency action plans, life safety programs, quality control for domestic and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Fire Chief information

See Ohio salary details

$29.5K

$100.4K

$174K

How much do fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Chief, you need extensive knowledge of fire science, emergency management, and leadership, typically supported by experience as a firefighter and advanced certifications like Fire Officer or Fire Chief credentials. Familiarity with incident command systems, fire reporting software, and emergency communication tools is essential. Outstanding decision-making, communication, and team leadership skills help manage personnel and maintain public trust. These competencies are critical for ensuring effective emergency response, firefighter safety, and overall department performance.

What are the typical challenges a fire chief faces when managing both emergency operations and administrative duties?

Fire Chiefs often juggle the demands of leading emergency response efforts while also overseeing administrative responsibilities like budgeting, personnel management, and policy development. Balancing immediate operational needs—such as coordinating teams during fires or disasters—with long-term planning and resource allocation can be challenging. Effective Fire Chiefs foster strong communication within their teams, delegate tasks appropriately, and remain adaptable to rapidly changing scenarios. This dual focus requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions under pressure.

What is the difference between Fire Chief vs Fire Captain?

AspectFire ChiefFire Captain
CertificationsFire Officer I & II, Incident Command, EMT/ParamedicFirefighter I & II, EMT/Paramedic, Incident Command
Work EnvironmentAdministrative, strategic planning, overseeing entire departmentOn-scene incident management, supervising firefighters
ResponsibilitiesDepartment leadership, policy development, budget managementLeading firefighting teams during emergencies, training

The Fire Chief is responsible for overall department management and strategic planning, while the Fire Captain focuses on on-the-ground incident command and team supervision. Both roles require similar certifications and work in firefighting environments, but differ in scope and leadership level.

What is a fire chief?

Fire Chiefs are the highest-ranking officers in a fire department, responsible for overseeing all operations and administration. They manage personnel, develop policies, coordinate emergency response, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Fire Chiefs also work with local government, budget resources, and lead public education efforts on fire prevention. Their leadership is crucial in both daily department management and during major emergency incidents.

What does a fire chief do?

A fire chief is a public service officer who oversees the operation of the fire department. As a fire chief, your responsibilities include responding to calls and working as a firefighter, but you are primarily the administrator for the department. Your duties are to train and assess firefighters, set schedules, monitor budgets, make requests for new equipment and fire engines, and ensure that the department is functioning properly. You will also work with local government officials to assess community needs and ensure they are being met.

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 cities in Ohio are hiring for Fire Chief jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Fire Chief job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Chief jobs in OH? For Fire Chief jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Fire Chief job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,372 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Fire Chief (Vacancy) - EXTENDED

City of Columbus

Columbus, OH

$77.82 - $116.72/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Definition THE SELECTION PROCESS Candidates should apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by July 31, 2026, with resume and cover letter. Following the filing deadline, applications will be reviewed by MGT. Candidates selected for further consideration may be asked to participate in preliminary interviews, complete supplemental written responses, and/or provide additional information regarding their professional background and accomplishments

The City will determine finalists based on qualifications, experience, and alignment with the needs of the position. Final candidates may be invited to participate in additional interviews and assessment activities as part of the selection process. All inquiries regarding this opportunity should be directed to Jon Fehlman, MGT Senior Consultant, at (847) 380-3240 x142.

Notice: In accordance with Ohio law, all applications and resumes for public positions are a matter of public record and will be disclosed to the media or public upon proper request through the City of Columbus. The City of Columbus, OH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Under the direction of the Public Safety Director, is responsible for the overall management of the Division of Fire; performs related duties as required.

Examples of Work (May not include all of the duties that may be performed.) Organizes and directs all resources of the Division of Fire for the most efficient discharge of its duty to protect persons and property and obeys and enforces ordinances of the City of Columbus; Plans, directs and reviews activities of personnel in order to ensure the proper execution of a fire service program designed to facilitate fire prevention, inspections, EMS, fire, and rescue response; water supply, hazardous material response and bomb disposal; makes recommendations as needed; Oversees the review and modification of fire programs in order to meet the changing needs of the community and the Division of Fire; Takes command at major incidents; responds to emergency calls when off duty; Makes assignments and supervises subordinate officers in the care and maintenance of equipment, stations, hose, appliances, and other supplies; supervises subordinate officers in the development and operation of fire training and fire prevention programs; Directs a communication system; directs the fire equipment maintenance program; Initiates and advises on the development of ordinances and regulations; reviews reports of divisional activities; prepares reports for city officials and state and national organizations interested in fire prevention; Oversees the preparation and maintenance of records and reports; meets with community groups and with officials who plan and approve the program of the Division; Attends conferences and meetings; coordinates activities of the Division of Fire with that of other divisions within the City and with other governmental and private agencies; Oversees, supervises, and/or evaluates assigned staff; handles employee concerns and problems, counsels, disciplines, and completes performance appraisals; Establishes Division of Fire priorities and develops policies under the direction of the Public Safety Director; Directs the preparation, review, and update of long-range and strategic plans; Supervises the development of the Division's annual budget request to the Public Safety Director; Recommends priorities for Capital Improvement Projects and major equipment purchases; Represents the Division in multi-agency functions; assists in developing multi-agency plans as directed by the Public Safety Director; Reviews the Division's disaster plan annually. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a bachelor's degree and one (1) year of service as a permanent appointee in the class of Fire Assistant Chief OR five (5) years with any combination of service as a Fire Assistant Chief, Fire Deputy Chief, and/or Fire Battalion Chief or comparable experience elsewhere. Possession of a valid driver's license

Must obtain (or maintain) valid Firefighter II and Fire Safety inspector certifications issued by the State of Ohio by the completion of the probationary period. Test/Job Contact Information Recruitment #: 26-3089-V1 Employment Type: Full-Time (Regular) Candidates should apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by July 31, 2026, with resume and cover letter. Following the filing deadline, applications will be reviewed by MGT

Candidates selected for further consideration may be asked to participate in preliminary interviews, complete supplemental written responses, and/or provide additional information regarding their professional background and accomplishments. The City will determine finalists based on qualifications, experience, and alignment with the needs of the position. Final candidates may be invited to participate in additional interviews and assessment activities as part of the selection process.

All inquiries regarding this opportunity should be directed to Jon Fehlman, MGT Senior Consultant, at (847) 380-3240 x142. Notice: In accordance with Ohio law, all applications and resumes for public positions are a matter of public record and will be disclosed to the media or public upon proper request through the City of Columbus. The City of Columbus is an Equal Opportunity Employer.