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Fire Department Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Florida Association of Counties

NY · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Overview Sarasota County Fire Department is an all-hazards fire and emergency medical services department. As the Fire Chief, you'll provide leadership for all aspects of emergency response ...

City of Fairbanks, AK

Assistant Fire Chief

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$47.97 - $58.63/hr

Direct the administrative activities of one or more divisions of the department at the direction of the Fire Chief. * Provide direct supervision of subordinate personnel. * Assist in developing ...

Daily Dispatch

$250/hr

The hiring range for the Fire Chief is $293,892 - $425,280 dependent on qualifications. Leading the Beverly Hills Fire Department is a career-defining opportunity to serve one of the most recognized ...

City of Fairbanks

Assistant Fire Chief

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$47.97 - $58.63/hr

This position is responsible to the Fire Chief for the administration of a division or multiple divisions of the Fairbanks Fire Department, assisting the Fire Chief in the overall administration and ...

City of Mesa

Fire Chief

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$191K - $258K/yr

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of the Southwest's premier fire departments in a thriving, innovation-driven city of more than half a million residents. The next Chief will build upon a legacy ...

Cities, Inc.

Deputy Fire Chief

Panama City, FL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Approves and oversees the department training. * Conducts studies, identifies problems, recommends alternatives and implements, solutions selected by the Chief. * Determines the level of inventory of ...

City of Lewiston, ID

Deputy Fire Chief

Lewiston, ID · On-site

$107K - $117K/yr

Fire Department - 1245 Idaho St. Lewiston, ID Job Type: Full Time Job Number: 00336 Department ... Our next Deputy Chief will approach opportunities and challenges with curiosity and creativity ...

Gulfshoresal

$100 - $125/hr

The Portland Fire Department is an all-career department with 25 employees and operates regional ... The Assistant Fire Chief / Fire Marshal has primary responsibility for the City's Fire Marshal ...

Cities, Inc.

Fire Chief

Flagler Beach, FL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Fire Chief DEPARTMENT: Fire SUMMARY: Responsible for the safety of City Fire Department officers and firefighters; the administrative management and operational control of the City's Fire Department ...

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Fire Department Chief information

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$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 - Williamson County ESD 1/Jollyville Fire Department

Austin, TX • On-site

Ure Consulting Group, LLC.
See more jobs at Ure Consulting Group, LLC.external

$160K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Innovate. Lead. Inspire.
Fire Chief Opportunity
The Jollyville, Texas community is seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to serve as its next Fire Chief-someone who recognizes that today's fire service is built as much on leadership, relationships, and service as it is on emergency response.
This is more than a command position; it is an opportunity to shape the future of a community with significant development potential, inspire and develop the next generation of firefighters, and lead a department that honors its proud traditions while embracing innovation.
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative leader, trusted mentor, and strategic thinker committed to excellence, operational readiness, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement.
Why Jollyville?
The Jollyville Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency medical services to approximately 18,500 people within an 11-square-mile response district. The department operates from one station serving a combination of suburban residential, commercial, and wildland areas.
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 20 paid firefighters and responds to an average of three to four calls per day.
Jollyville is served by the highly rated Round Rock Independent School District and offers residents the best of both worlds: the connection and agility of a smaller community with access to the resources, opportunities, and innovation of the greater Austin metropolitan area.
With future development potential within the response area, the Fire Chief will have a meaningful seat at the table as the department plans for the future.
You'll have the opportunity to:
  • Shape the department's identity and future direction.
  • Work alongside engaged community and District leaders who value public safety.
  • Develop and mentor the next generation of fire service leaders.
  • Strengthen regional partnerships and community engagement.
  • Leave a legacy that directly impacts lives, property, and community resilience.
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is an approachable leader with a demonstrated record of success in progressive fire service management. They are a strategic thinker who can balance operational excellence with long-term planning while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
This individual is committed to developing people, empowering future leaders, and building a high-performing organization where professionalism, innovation, and service are valued at every level. They communicate transparently, lead with integrity, and inspire confidence through sound judgment and decisive leadership.
The successful candidate understands the importance of community engagement and values strong partnerships with the ESD Board, employees, neighboring agencies, community stakeholders, and the public. They are equally confident managing complex emergency operations, overseeing organizational and financial priorities, and representing the department as a trusted ambassador within the community.
Above all, the next Fire Chief will be a servant leader-someone who embraces change while honoring tradition, values teamwork over ego, and is dedicated to protecting the lives, property, and quality of life of those who live, work, and visit Jollyville.
Required and Preferred Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED required. An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Fire Protection Technology, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fire and EMS services, with at least five years in a senior leadership role.
  • Texas Commission on Fire Protection Advanced Firefighter Certification or out-of-state equivalent.
  • Fire Officer II or greater.
  • Chief Fire Officer (CFO) designation preferred.
  • Executive Fire Officer (EFO) from the U.S. Fire Administration preferred.
  • Chief Fire Executive (CFE) preferred.
  • Texas DSHS EMT or Paramedic Certification.
  • TCFP Head of Department Certification, or the ability to obtain certification within one year of the date of hire.
Residency and Response Requirement
The successful candidate must be able to respond to emergency situations at any hour and must reside in Williamson or Travis County or relocate to Williamson or Travis County within 90 days of hire.
Compensation and Benefits
Williamson County ESD #1 offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Fire Chief Salary Range: $160,000-$175,000, based on experience.
Benefits include health insurance, retirement benefits, and a take-home vehicle.
Application Process
Interested applicants must submit an online Ure Consulting Group application, including a cover letter, resume, references, and relevant credentials.
Apply online:
Only completed applications submitted through the online application platform will be considered.
Projected Process Timeline
  1. Position Advertisement Begins: September 1, 2026
  2. Position Closes: September 30, 2026
  3. Review of Ure Consulting Group Applications: As received
  4. Management/Leadership Questionnaire Distributed: As applications are received for well qualified candidates.
  5. Management/Leadership Questionnaire Deadline: Seven days after distribution
  6. Top Candidates Identified/Semi-Finalists: October 12, 2026
  7. Ure Consulting Group Video Interviews with Semi-Finalists: Week of October 19, 2026
  8. Teleconference with Williamson County ESD #1 - Selection of Top Finalists: Week of October 19, 2026
  9. Final Ranking Provided to Williamson County ESD #1: October 23, 2026
  10. Fire Department and Community Meet-and-Greets: Week of October 26, 2026
  11. Finalist On-Site Interviews: Week of October 26, 2026

Application Deadline: September 30, 2026

Apply