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Fire Department Chief Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Director of Facilities

Victor, NY ยท On-site

$85K/yr

Manages department's controllable expenses to achieve or exceed budgeted goals. * Inspect and ... Prior experience in Hotel Management, Chief Engineer, or Director of Engineering in a full-service ...

Director of Facilities

Victor, NY ยท On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Manages department's controllable expenses to achieve or exceed budgeted goals. * Inspect and ... Prior experience in Hotel Management, Chief Engineer, or Director of Engineering in a full-service ...

Fire Department Chief information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$30.6K

$104.2K

$180.6K

How much do fire department chief jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire department chief in Rochester, NY is $104,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $122,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the main responsibilities of a fire department chief?

A Fire Department Chief oversees all operations within a fire department, including managing personnel, developing policies, and coordinating emergency response efforts. They are responsible for ensuring the safety of both firefighters and the public, maintaining equipment and facilities, and developing training programs. Additionally, the Chief represents the department in the community and with local government, manages budgets, and ensures compliance with safety regulations and standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire department chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Department Chief, you need extensive knowledge of fire science, emergency management, leadership experience, and typically a bachelor's degree in fire science, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with fire incident management systems, emergency communication tools, and relevant certifications such as Executive Fire Officer (EFO) or Chief Fire Officer (CFO) is highly valued. Outstanding interpersonal skills, decision-making under pressure, and strategic vision set strong leaders apart in this role. These skills ensure effective emergency response, efficient department operations, and the safety of both firefighters and the public.

What are some common challenges faced by a fire department chief in managing personnel and resources?

A Fire Department Chief often faces the challenge of balancing limited resources while ensuring optimal emergency response and firefighter safety. Managing a diverse team, addressing training needs, and maintaining high morale can be demanding, especially during periods of budget constraints or high call volumes. Chiefs must also stay updated on best practices and regulatory changes, and foster strong relationships with community leaders and other emergency response agencies to coordinate efforts effectively.

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

AspectFire Department ChiefFire Captain
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire fire department operations, strategic planning, and policy developmentSupervises fire crews during emergency responses and daily station activities
Required CredentialsFire science degree, extensive firefighting experience, leadership certificationsFire science training, firefighting experience, leadership skills
Work EnvironmentAdministrative office, command centers, department meetingsFire stations, emergency scenes, training grounds
Industry UsageHigh-level leadership in fire departmentsMid-level management within fire departments

The Fire Department Chief holds executive leadership responsibilities, overseeing the entire department, while the Fire Captain manages daily operations and firefighting crews. Both roles require firefighting experience and leadership skills, but the Chief focuses on strategic planning and policy, whereas the Captain is more involved in on-the-ground incident management.

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Fire Department Chief jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Fire Department Chief job openings:

Infographic showing various Fire Department Chief job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,170 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Hotel Chief Engineer

Macedon, NY โ€ข On-site

Indus Hospitality Group, Inc
Traveler Accommodationย โ€ขย 501 - 1,000 employees

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Summary

Direct, train and mentor the Engineering staff in preventative maintenance, skilled trouble shooting and repair using proper Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC or other engineering or mechanical techniques to ensure the proper working order of all hotel assets. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Directly supervises associates in the Engineering department; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining associates
  • Trouble shoot and repair equipment and systems, not limited to HVAC, fire suppression system, boilers/chillers, PTAC’s, guest internet/TV and related wiring/cabling.
  • Perform appropriate repairs within the facility, not limited to painting and wallpaper repair, tub and sink repair, outlet and bulb replacement, woodworking, concrete and tile repair.
  • Ensure swimming pool and spa maintenance duties are performed according to manufacturer specifications and local Health Department Regulations.
  • Maintain preventative maintenance schedule for all public space, guest rooms and equipment, i.e. laundry equipment, heating and air conditioner units, ice machines, fire extinguishers, fire/smoke alarms, kitchen appliances and plumbing. Maintenance is performed as required by the manufacturer and in accordance with warranty specifications.
  • Train Engineering and Front Office staff on sprinkler and fire alarm procedures.
  • Assist with outdoor seasonal work including lawn, maintenance of landscape beds, parking lot cleanliness and snow removal.
  • Conduct quarterly fire drills and assist in annual OSHA/Safety training for associates.
  • Review, analyze and report on preventative maintenance results of all key property areas including grounds, guest rooms, common areas, pools, equipment and systems.
  • Coordinate work assignments and maintain records on completed and pending work orders.
  • Maintain up to date records and files.
  • Maintain proper staffing levels through appropriate hiring and scheduling.
  • Manage department expenses including but not limited to payroll and inventories while adhering to budgeted goals.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the engineering shop and any other areas that work may be performed, as well as the Engineering office and surrounding areas
  • Ensure communication of changes in room status with Front Desk and Housekeeping.
  • Assist other departments as needed.
  • Perform activities of associates supervised.
  • Ensure effective departmental communication through logs, daily stand up meetings and monthly department meetings.
  • Perform a variety of administrative tasks including maintaining an accurate inventory of supplies, maintaining department budget, handling any accounting and purchasing functions.
  • Provide information pertaining to hours and available services of the hotel, i.e. restaurant, lounge, room service.
  • Assist in checking all fixtures, equipment and conditions (lights, music, heating/cooling, furniture, wallpaper, etc.) for proper operations, settings and maintenance. Report deficiencies.


Qualifications                   

  • Two to four years related experience and/or training; Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • The associate must be able to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. 
  • While performing the duties of this Job, the associate is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; chemicals; paint; dust and risk of electrical shock. 
  • The associate is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions. 
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. 
  • The associate works in an environment open to the general public.


Why Join Indus Hospitality Group?


At Indus Hospitality Group, we offer a dynamic work environment that fosters growth, innovation, and collaboration. Our team provides exceptional service and creates memorable experiences for both our guests and employees. Joining us means being part of a supportive, inclusive culture where your contributions are valued, and your career development is a priority.


We are committed to providing you with opportunities for personal and professional growth, ensuring that you have the tools and resources to thrive in your role. If you are a self-motivated, detail-oriented individual with a passion for recruitment, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on our team and help shape the future of our organization.


Come grow with us at Indus Hospitality Group!