ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Fire Department Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Richfield, MN

Fire Chief

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$142K - $186K/yr

The Fire Department consists of 22 full-time firefighters along with a Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief (currently vacant), three captains, three Lieutenants and an Administrative Assistant. The Fire ...

City of Billings, MT

Fire Chief

Billings, MT · On-site

Fire Department Division: Fire Administration Opening Date: 08/21/2026 "Applicants must be ... Chief brochure and apply Job Summary: Under general administrative direction, to plan, direct ...

City of Costa Mesa, CA

Fire Chief

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$222K - $297K/yr

Costa Mesa, CA, CA Job Type: FULL-TIME Job Number: 0223: 08/26 Department: Fire Opening Date: 08/17 ... The typical background for a successful Chief is extensive experience in fire suppression and ...

City of Billings

$138K - $184K/yr

... view and the entire Fire Chief brochure and apply Job Summary: Under general administrative ... Incumbent has a very high degree of understanding of department and functional operations and is ...

City of Beverly Hills, CA

Fire Chief

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$293K - $425K/yr

Fire Department Opening Date: 08/14/2026 Closing Date: 9/7/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Job Summary Fire Chief Beverly Hills Fire Department City of Beverly Hills, CA Annual Salary: $293,891.88 - $425,279 ...

City of Beverly Hills

Fire Chief

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$293K - $425K/yr

Job Summary Fire Chief Beverly Hills Fire Department City of Beverly Hills, CA Annual Salary: $293,891.88 - $425,279.88 DOE/DOQ Leading the Beverly Hills Fire Department is a career-defining ...

TENNESSEE MUNICIPAL LEAGUE

Fire Chief

Nolensville, TN · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

The Fire Chief recently moved back to his hometown after serving in good standing for five years ... The ideal candidate will lead the fire department with a focus and commitment to exceptional ...

Cities, Inc.

Fire Chief

Live Oak, FL · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

This position ensures the department maintains a constant state of operational readiness to provide ... The Fire Chief develops and implements departmental goals, policies, and procedures while ensuring ...

Gfoat

Fire Chief

Frisco, TX · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Frisco Fire Chief is the executive leader of one of the nation's premier all-hazards fire departments, a nationally accredited, ISO Class 1 organization delivering fire ...

Golden Eagle Casino

KTIK Fire Chief

Horton, KS · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Fire chief is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Kickapoo Fire Department. Primary areas of responsibility are all fire, emergency medical and emergency management related programs.

Gfoat

$200 - $250/hr

POSITION OVERVIEW The Frisco Fire Chief is the executive leader of one of the nation's premier all-hazards fire departments, a nationally accredited, ISO Class 1 organization delivering fire ...

Golden Eagle Casino

KTIK Fire Chief

Horton, KS · On-site

The Fire chief is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Kickapoo Fire Department. Primary areas of responsibility are all fire, emergency medical and emergency management related programs.

Golden Eagle Casino

KTIK Fire Chief

Horton, KS · On-site

The Fire chief is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Kickapoo Fire Department. Primary areas of responsibility are all fire, emergency medical and emergency management related programs.

Gulfshoresal

$150 - $200/hr

The department operates one engine and one ladder staffed 24 hours a day. In addition, there are two brush trucks, one Battalion Chief vehicle, and one Fire Chief vehicle. The department has grown to ...

Gold Eagle Casino

KTIK Fire Chief

Horton, KS · On-site

The Fire chief is the Chief Administrative Officer for the Kickapoo Fire Department. Primary areas of responsibility are all fire, emergency medical and emergency management related programs.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsGovernment JobsEmergency Services JobsEmergency Services Professional JobsFire Department Chief Jobs

Fire Department Chief information

See salary details

$31K

$105.6K

$183K

How much do fire department chief jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire department 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 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 are hiring for Fire Department Chief jobs?

Cities with the most Fire Department Chief job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Fire Department Chief jobs?

The top employers for Fire Department Chief jobs are:

What states have the most Fire Department Chief jobs?

States with the most job openings for Fire Department Chief jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Fire Department Chief jobs?

For Fire Department Chief jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Fire Department Chief jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Department Chief job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,577 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Fire Chief

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

City of Richfield, MN
See more jobs at City of Richfield, MNexternal

$142K - $186K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary: $142,480.00 - $186,867.00 Annually
Location : Fire Station #1 - 6700 Portland Ave, MN
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00051
Department: Fire Services
Division: Fire
Opening Date: 08/27/2026
Closing Date: 9/21/2026 11:59 PM Central
Nature of Work
Fire Chief - Richfield Fire Department
The City of Richfield is seeking a visionary and collaborative leader to serve as its next Fire Chief. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dedicated career department committed to providing high-quality fire, emergency medical, prevention, and risk-reduction services to the community.
The Fire Chief will provide strategic leadership for all aspects of the department, including emergency fire and EMS response, fire prevention, organizational development, and community risk reduction. The successful candidate will work closely with City leadership, regional partners, and the community to ensure the department remains responsive, innovative, and prepared to meet evolving public safety needs. The Fire Department consists of 22 full-time firefighters along with a Deputy Chief, Assistant Chief (currently vacant), three captains, three Lieutenants and an Administrative Assistant.
The Fire Chief will also join a seasoned and collaborative team of City department heads committed to effective leadership and exceptional public service.
The City offers a competitive annual salary range of $142,480 to $186,867, along with a generous benefits package.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit to apply by September 21, 2026. Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references.
We anticipate the following timeline for the hiring process:
Panel Interviews- Week of October 5th
Facilitated Firefighter Meet and Greet- Week of October 19th
Candidate Leadership Assessment- Week of October 19th
City Manager Interview- Week of October 26th
Assessments and Background- November 2nd to November 30th
Start Date- Early to Mid-December
For additional information, candidates may review the position profile and job description or contact:
Kate Croteau, Human Resources Director
Rodger Coppa, Interim Fire Chief
Join the Richfield Fire Department and help shape the future of fire and emergency services in our community.
Job Duties
For more information on the position and a full description of Job duties please refer to the below links.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Ability to be licensed by the State of Minnesota as a firefighter.
  • At least 10 years of progressively responsible fire service experience, including at least five years in a chief officer role within a combination or career fire department.
  • Bachelor's degree in Fire Administration, Fire Science, Emergency Management, Personnel Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
  • Current on all required certifications outlined in the full job posting.

The City of Richfield, MN offers a complete and comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including:
  • 100% employer paid Medical and Dental coverage for single enrollment, plus employer contribution to HSA
  • Significant contribution towards spouse, child(ren), and family coverage
  • Flexible Spending Account options
  • 100% employer paid Short-Term Disability insurance
  • 100% employer paid Long Term Disability insurance
  • 100% employer paid Basic Life and AD&D insurance
  • Opportunity to request participation in our modified work schedule program (choose one regular day off every other week), depending on position
  • Opportunity to request to participate in a flexible work schedule with remote work options, depending on position
  • Wellness program which includes earning up to 8 hours of paid time off after participation in wellness activities throughout the year
  • Vacation Leave and Personal Leave, with additional 12 Holidays per year
  • Up to 10 days paid parental leave for either parent after the birth or adoption of a child
  • Enrollment into a pension plan through PERA
  • Voluntary enrollment into deferred compensation plans with a variety of partner agencies

01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

02
Do you have a valid Minnesota Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No
  • No, but I have the ability to obtain one upon hire

03
Do you have a MN Firefighter License?
  • Yes,
  • No, but I am eligible to obtain this license
  • No, and I am not eligible to obtain this license

04
How many years of progressively responsible fire service experience do you possess?
  • Less than ten years
  • Ten or more years
  • No experience

05
Please select your years of experience in a chief officer position with a career or combination fire department
  • Less than five years
  • Five or more years
  • No experience

06
Please select your highest level of education in a field to the position ( Fire Administration, Fire Science, Emergency Management, Public Administration, Personnel Management, or a closely related field.)
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or higher
  • None of the above

07
Do you hold a valid, current NREMT certification?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Please select each certification or licensure that you possess
  • IFSAC or Pro Board Firefighter II certification (NFPA 1001).
  • IFSAC or Pro Board Hazardous Materials Operations certification (NFPA 472 or NFPA 1072).
  • IFSAC or Pro Board Fire Officer I certification (NFPA 1021).
  • IFSAC or Pro Board Fire Instructor I certification (NFPA 1041).
  • NIMS ICS 100, 200, and ICS 700 Certifications
  • None of the above

09
The City of Richfield awards veterans' preference points to qualified veterans and spouses of deceased or disabled veterans in accordance with Minnesota State Statute 197.447. Are you requesting Veteran's Preference Points for this position? If so, please select your Veterans status and assure you have attached a copy of your DD-214 and/or documentation verifying your service-connected disability rating if you are deemed a disabled veteran, as defined in state statute, to your application.
  • Not Applicable
  • Veteran
  • Disabled Veteran
  • Spouse of Deceased Veteran
  • Spouse of Disabled Veteran

Required Question

Apply