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Fire Chief Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

City of Hemet, CA

FIRE CHIEF

Hemet, CA · On-site

$210K - $281K/yr

The City of Hemet is currently looking for a proven leader and experienced professional to serve as Fire Chief. The ideal candidate will have a passion for delivering high-quality services and an ...

City of Hemet

FIRE CHIEF

Hemet, CA

$210K - $281K/yr

The City of Hemet is currently looking for a proven leader and experienced professional to serve as Fire Chief. The ideal candidate will have a passion for delivering high-quality services and an ...

Vets2PM

DoD SkillBridge - Emergency Management

Corona, CA

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

... from the Fire Chief.) How to manage emergency services planning and development, resources identification, interagency response coordination, and public education. **Interested candidates will ...

Vets2PM

DoD SkillBridge - Emergency Management

Corona, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

How to be responsible for developing and carrying the City's comprehensive disaster and emergency preparedness (with administrative guidance and direction from the Fire Chief.) * How to manage ...

City of Hemet

Chief Building Official

Hemet, CA

$130K - $175K/yr

The Chief Building Official plans, oversees, and directs all activities of the building division ... Geography of the City, location of water mains and fire hydrants and the location of major fire ...

City of Hemet, CA

Chief Building Official

Hemet, CA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

The Chief Building Official plans, oversees, and directs all activities of the building division ... Geography of the City, location of water mains and fire hydrants and the location of major fire ...

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All JobsFire Chief JobsFire Chief Jobs in Riverside, CA

Fire Chief information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$32.3K

$110.1K

$190.9K

How much do fire chief jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire chief in Riverside, CA is $110,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $129,400.00 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 are Fire Chiefs?

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.

More about Fire Chief jobs
What are popular job titles related to Fire Chief jobs in Riverside, CA? For Fire Chief jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Chief jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Chief jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Fire Chief jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Fire Chief job openings:
Fire Chief jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Chief job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,145 per year, or $53 per hour.

FIRE CHIEF

City of Hemet, CA

Hemet, CA • On-site

$210K - $281K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Salary : $210,120.00 - $281,592.00 Annually
Location : City of Hemet, 510 E Florida Ave., Hemet, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 25/26-030
Department: Fire Department
Opening Date: 01/26/2026
THE CITY
**THE CITY OF HEMET IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER**
The City of Hemet is currently looking for a proven leader and experienced professional to serve as Fire Chief. The ideal candidate will have a passion for delivering high-quality services and an individual who can assist the City Manager with the vision of moving the City forward.
To be considered for this exceptional career opportunity, please submit the following required attachments:
**REQUIRED ATTACHMENT MATERIALS
  • Cover Letter/Letter of Interest
  • Resume
  • Degree/Transcripts
  • Five (5) References
References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.
Summary Description
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include, but are not limited to the following characteristics, duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills and other characteristics.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
  • Plan, develop, manage, and direct Fire Department activities and services including fire suppression, protection and prevention, hazardous materials and disaster preparedness, medical response and other related activities; command major fire emergency and disaster situations affecting the City, as appropriate.
  • Direct the development and administration of the department budget; monitor and approve expenditures and implement budget adjustments; present budget to fiscal committee.
  • Conduct and direct studies; prepare and present master plan reports addressing growth impact on emergency services; ensure proper planning occurs for disaster preparedness programs and activities; ensures activities are in accordance with ordinances, laws, codes, policies and regulations.
  • Prepare reports and make presentations at City Council and other meetings; serve on various internal and external committees; attend meetings as part of senior executive team; serve as liaison with the community, professional groups, the media and other external contacts and resources for the City.
  • Establish, implement, and enforce department policies and procedures; work with City staff to establish Citywide policies and procedures.
  • Resolve discrepancies or procedural problems and respond to program administration and/or delivery questions ensuring necessary follow-up occurs; confer with and advise staff and internal and external customers by providing advice, problem-solving assistance, answers to questions and interpretation of program goals and policy.
  • Directly and through subordinate supervisors, hire, direct work efforts and evaluate staff; provide for and/or conduct staff development; establish work methods and standards; initiate corrective and/or disciplinary action and respond to grievances and complaints.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE
Knowledge of municipal organization and administration.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of effective leadership, management and supervision. Knowledge of municipal budget preparation and control.
Knowledge of modern fire suppression, protection and prevention principles and practices.
Knowledge of program and project management principles and practices.
Knowledge of city, state and federal fire and building codes and regulations.
SKILL
Skill in program development, implementation and evaluation.
Skill in assessing objectives and operational requirements to develop and implement appropriate
administrative policies and procedures for the city and the department.
Skill in managing, developing, motivating and evaluating professional and support staff.
Skill in managing special projects, activities and programs.
Skill in understanding and applying complex regulations, procedures and guidelines.
ABILITY
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to conduct research and prepare clear, concise and comprehensive reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City officials, employees, and the public.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree (Masters degree preferred) in fire technology, public administration or a related field and five (5) years progressively responsible fire service management experience including three (3) years battalion chief or higher level supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
CERTIFICATION/LICENSES
State of California class "C" driver's license.
Supplemental Information
**REQUIRED ATTACHMENT MATERIALS
  • Cover Letter/Letter of Interest
  • Resume
  • Degree/Transcripts
  • Five (5) References

ENVIRONMENTAL AND PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
Requires the mobility and manual dexterity to work in a standard office environment, use standard office equipment and attend off-site meetings; speech and hearing to communicate in person and by telephone; vision to read handwritten and printed materials and a computer screen; strength and agility to lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds. Some accommodations may be made for some physical demands for otherwise qualified individuals who require and request such accommodations.
SELECTION PROCESS
All properly completed applications will be reviewed and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. The process may include any combination of a written exam, oral board interview, and/or skills assessment to further evaluate job-related qualifications. Candidates who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list which will remain valid for a minimum of twelve months.
Note: Prospective employees will undergo, and must successfully pass, a background reference check (including fingerprinting) and a medical examination. Drug screening may be required.
At-Will / Directors
Benefits Summary
(Updated January 2026)
The following is a summary of the provided benefits to full-time, At-Will / Director employees. For further information, please contact Human Resources.
Retirement: The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS).
Miscellaneous Members:
  • Classic Members: 2.5% at 55 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on single highest year; employee contributes 8% (no Social Security deduction).
  • PEPRA (New) Members: 2% at 62 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on a three-year average; employee contributes 50% of total normal cost, currently 8% (no Social Security deduction)

Safety Members:
  • Classic Members: 3% at 55 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on single highest year; employee contributes 12% (no Social Security deduction).
  • PEPRA (New) Members: 2.7% at 57 Formula; 1959 survivor benefit; final compensation based on a three-year average; employee contributes 50% of total normal cost, currently 14.75% (no Social Security deduction).

Medical Coverage:
  • The City contributes 100% of premium for employee only coverage on the City's Kaiser plans.

Plan Year 2025/2026
(September 2025- August 2026)
Dental & Vision Coverage:
  • The City pays 100% of the premium for dental & vision coverage for employees and their dependents.

Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance:
  • The City pays 100% of the premium for a term-life insurance policy of one time base pay rate.
  • The City pays 100% of the premium for long-term disability insurance.

Deferred Compensation:
  • The City contributes 2.5% of employee's monthly salary.

Educational Reimbursement:
  • The City will provide up to $5,000 per calendar year.

Leave Accruals:
  • Employees earn up to the following amounts of leave:
    • 256 hours annually Vacation Leave
    • 40 hours annually Administrative Leave
    • 4 hours per month Sick Leave
    • 10 paid Holidays annually
    • 3 Floating Holidays

Work Schedule:
  • The City participates in flexible work scheduling based on providing appropriate coverage and adequate service to the public.

Auto Allowance:
  • $500 per month. This benefit is only applicable with approval of the City Manager.

Note: The provisions of this summary do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this summary may be modified or revoked without notice. The types and levels of employee benefits provided, including City contributions toward benefit costs, are subject to change as a result of periodic contract negotiations between the recognized employee association and the City of Hemet.

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