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Fire Department Training Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Watsonville, CA

Battalion Fire Chief

Watsonville, CA · On-site

$121K - $163K/yr

The Battalion Fire Chief will be assigned duties and responsibilities that involve interaction with ... Implements Fire Department training and work safety programs * Revises and prepares Fire Department ...

City of Onalaska, WI

Fire Chief

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$114K - $149K/yr

The Chief is responsible for managing the physical facilities and equipment; promoting fire ... Monitors the planning, organization, conduct, and evaluation of departmental training activities of ...

City of Onalaska

Fire Chief

Onalaska, WI

$114K - $149K/yr

The Chief is responsible for managing the physical facilities and equipment; promoting fire ... Monitors the planning, organization, conduct, and evaluation of departmental training activities of ...

City and Borough of Sitka, AK

Fire Chief

Sitka, AK · On-site

$119K/yr

... departmental training programs and schedules for both volunteer and paid staff • Develops and ... Fire Chief • Must use appropriate Personal Protection Equipment ("PPE") • Must remain ...

City of Hollister, CA

Fire Chief

Hollister, CA · On-site

$182K - $221K/yr

... Fire Chief classification or in similar classifications. Applications will be accepted on a ... the Fire Department which may include training/hazmat disaster preparation, emergency/ EMS ...

City of Hollister

Fire Chief

Hollister, CA · On-site

$182K - $221K/yr

... Fire Chief classification or in similar classifications. Applications will be accepted on a ... the Fire Department which may include training/hazmat disaster preparation, emergency/ EMS ...

Sitka, City and Borough of (AK)

Fire Chief

Sitka, AK

$119K/yr

The Fire Chief is a management employee who assists and acts in a confidential capacity to the ... departmental training programs and schedules for both volunteer and paid staff Develops and ...

City of Rocklin, CA

Fire Chief

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$188K - $256K/yr

Rocklin Fire Department, CA Job Type: At-Will Employee Job Number: 2026-00030 Department: Fire ... The next Fire Chief will have the chance to shape the future of fire and emergency services in a ...

City of Chico, CA

Deputy Chief - Fire

Chico, CA · On-site

$196K/yr

Continuous Position Information The Chico Fire Department seeks a Deputy Fire Chief with demonstrated expertise in fire protection, emergency medical services, administration, and training, as well ...

City of Chico

Deputy Chief - Fire

Chico, CA

$196K/yr

Position Information The Chico Fire Department seeks a Deputy Fire Chief with demonstrated expertise in fire protection, emergency medical services, administration, and training, as well as the ...

City of Rocklin (CA)

Fire Chief

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$188K - $256K/yr

The Department provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, fire ... The Fire Chief is supported by two Deputy Chiefs who oversee Field Operations and Fire Prevention.

City of Homer Alaska

Deputy Fire Chief

Homer, AK · On-site

$40.88 - $46.98/hr

Fire Chief, Dan Jager (907) 235-3155 or GENERAL FUNCTIONS Assists the Fire Chief with managing and ... departments desired. Strong interpersonal skills required for training and working with volunteers.

Sarasota County Government

Fire Chief

Arbutus, MD · On-site

As the Fire Chief, you'll provide leadership for all aspects of emergency response, community risk ... Responsible for all fire training programs for Fire Department employees, approving and overseeing ...

City of Homer Alaska

Deputy Fire Chief

Homer, AK · On-site

$40.88 - $46.98/hr

Fire Chief, Dan Jager (907) 235-3155 or djager@ci.homer.ak.us GENERAL FUNCTIONS Assists the Fire ... departments desired. Strong interpersonal skills required for training and working with volunteers.

City of Homer Alaska

Deputy Fire Chief

Homer, AK

Fire Chief, Dan Jager (907) 235-3155 or djager@ci.homer.ak.us GENERAL FUNCTIONS Assists the Fire ... departments desired. Strong interpersonal skills required for training and working with volunteers.

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All JobsFire Department Training Chief Jobs

Fire Department Training Chief information

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$31K

$105.6K

$183K

How much do fire department training chief jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for fire department training 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 is the difference between Fire Department Training Chief vs Fire Captain?

AspectFire Department Training ChiefFire Captain
CertificationsFirefighter, Fire Officer, Training CertificationsFirefighter, Fire Officer, Incident Command
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, classrooms, on-site trainingFire scenes, emergency response, incident command
Primary ResponsibilitiesDeveloping training programs, overseeing training staffLeading fire suppression, managing crews at incidents

The Fire Department Training Chief focuses on training program development and staff oversight, while the Fire Captain manages fire suppression operations and incident response. Both roles require firefighting certifications, but their daily duties and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by a Fire Department Training Chief, and how can they be addressed?

A Fire Department Training Chief often faces challenges such as keeping training programs up-to-date with evolving standards, ensuring consistent participation from all personnel, and balancing administrative duties with hands-on instruction. Effective communication with both leadership and firefighters is crucial to identify training needs and address skill gaps. Utilizing technology, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and collaborating closely with other departments can help overcome these obstacles and ensure a well-prepared team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Department Training Chief, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Department Training Chief, you need extensive experience in fire service operations, training program development, and typically certifications such as Fire Officer and Fire Instructor from recognized bodies (e.g., NFPA, state fire academies). Familiarity with incident management systems, training management software, and safety compliance protocols is also essential. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you effectively mentor personnel and coordinate complex training initiatives. These skills ensure firefighters are well-prepared, compliant with safety standards, and capable of responding efficiently to emergencies.

What does a Fire Department Training Chief do?

A Fire Department Training Chief is responsible for overseeing the training and professional development of firefighters within a department. They design, implement, and evaluate training programs on firefighting techniques, emergency response, safety procedures, and new equipment. This role ensures that all personnel are prepared to respond effectively to emergencies and comply with regulations. Additionally, the Training Chief may coordinate certification processes and keep training records up to date. Their leadership is essential for maintaining high standards of safety and performance within the fire department.
More about Fire Department Training Chief jobs
What cities are hiring for Fire Department Training Chief jobs? Cities with the most Fire Department Training Chief job openings:
What states have the most Fire Department Training Chief jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Department Training Chief jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fire Department Training Chief jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Department Training Chief jobs are:
Fire Department Training Chief jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Department Training Chief job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,577 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Battalion Fire Chief

City of Watsonville, CA

Watsonville, CA • On-site

$121K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Salary: $121,634.24 - $163,013.76 Annually
Location : City of Watsonville, CA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-00017
Department: Fire
Opening Date: 07/13/2026
Closing Date: 7/27/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
Description
SALARY: $212,633.44 Max top-step salary with all incentives, if eligible.
INCENTIVES:
5% Bilingual
7.5% Education
5% HAZ Cert Pay
8% Holiday Pay
2.-4.5 Longevity Pay
*Base salary subject to a 3.0% cost of living increase.
JOB SUMMARY: Under administrative direction, may serve as a Duty or Staff Chief. The Battalion Fire Chief will be assigned duties and responsibilities that involve interaction with fire personnel, City personnel, and the community; respond to and assume command at emergencies or as part of the incident command team; and assume various emergency and non-emergency duties, and committee work as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This job class functions at a management level of classification and serves as a member of the Fire Department Management Team. The Battalion Fire Chief will be assigned either a 5 day/8 hour shift, a 4 day/10 hour shift, or to a 24 hour platoon duty as decided by the Fire Chief.
Examples of Duties
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Serves as incident commander at emergencies
  • Serves as acting Division Chief
  • Serves as part of the incident command team
  • Serves as Duty Chief, or Staff Chief as assigned
  • Plans, organizes, and coordinates projects and programs as assigned
  • Understands the principles of the incident command system

  • Understands, interprets, and enforces federal, state, and local laws and regulations as they relate to fire and life safety, training standards, fire prevention codes and fire investigation.
  • Performs fire and life safety inspections under the direction of the Division Chief, Fire Marshal and/or Fire Chief

  • Serves on various workgroups, advisory groups or committees as assigned
  • Attends meetings day or night as the Fire Department representative

  • Implements orders, regulations, ordinances, and laws relative to the mission of the Fire Department

  • Analyzes data, researches new methods, and communicates verbally and in writing that relate to a project, program, or work assignment
  • Effectively interacts with the public, fire personnel, and City employees to solve problems, identify solutions, and implement programs and projects
  • Implements Fire Department training and work safety programs
  • Revises and prepares Fire Department rules, regulations, projects, programs, principles and procedures
  • Reviews, understands, and assists in the preparation of the Fire Department's annual budget
  • Ensures the proper operation and maintenance of all Fire Department apparatus and equipment
  • Reviews and prepares activity reports, training bulletins, fire suppression and prevention reports, staff reports and other written reports as directed
  • Serves in the Department's management role in the City's Emergency Operations Center
  • Provides training, guidance, and leadership to all members of the Fire Department
  • Provides assistance in the Fire Department's operation and administration
  • Performs other related duties as assigned by the Division Chief and/or Fire Chief
  • Supervises the work of the Fire Captain assigned to shifts
  • Perform Fire Prevention duties as assigned.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
Knowledge of:
  • modern principles, practices, and techniques of department administration and operation
  • methods and principles of fire suppression, investigation, and prevention
  • proper use and operation of firefighting apparatus and equipment

  • analytical techniques and effective methods of solving problems

  • principles of supervision and training
  • knowledge and development of accounting and budgeting principles

  • incident command system, hazardous materials recognition, EMS/Paramedic procedures, confined space rescue, urban search and rescue techniques, - multi-casualty incidents and wildland fires
  • cultural awareness, gender, and personnel issues

Ability to:
  • provide supervision and training to personnel
  • effectively and tactfully communicate in both oral and written forms
  • prepare written staff reports and training bulletins
  • prepare oral reports; make effective presentations to department personnel, City Council, and community organizations
  • prepare budget estimates and control expenditures
  • represent the Fire Department with high standards of ethics, professionalism, and dedication

  • focus on multiple tasks simultaneously
  • respond to negative feedback appropriately
  • drive Fire Department vehicles and maintain safe driving record
  • establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of required duties
  • assume role of acting Division Chief
  • think clearly and act decisively under stressful conditions
  • sit at a desk and in meetings and training for long periods of time
  • stoop and bend; twist; reach above and below shoulder level
  • push and pull; balance on ladders
  • climb ground and aerial ladders
  • work long hours, at all hours, under physical and mental pressures in hazardous conditions, in inclement weather and during emergency response and disaster situations
  • stand for long periods of time
  • wear self-contained breathing apparatus
  • hear alarms and sirens
  • distinguish red, yellow, and blue flashing lights
  • wear firefighting gear weighing 50-60 lbs.
  • smell to detect odors such as alcohol, smoke, gases, etc.
  • hear effectively and communicate in both emergency and non-emergency situations
  • work in various environments subject to heat, cold, inclement weather, etc.
  • walk to perform assigned duties; walk on uneven surfaces; crawl and run
  • lift equipment weighing 50 lbs.
  • maintain good physical condition
  • effectively use radios to communicate
  • read, speak and write English; Spanish speaker is highly desirable

Typical Qualifications
TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
Any combination of training and experience, which would provide the required knowledge and abilities, is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities is:
Education
Associate Degree from a properly accredited institution is required before being permanently assigned to the position.A BS/BA degree from a properly accredited institution in Fire Protection Technology or other related field is highly desirable.
Must complete the following coursework prior to permanent appointment:
  • ICS-400: Advanced Incident Command System
  • NIMS I-800
  • CSTI Hazardous Material On Scene Incident Commander
  • CSFM Fire Chief Officer/Chief Officer Certification
  • Strike Team Leader S-330 or equivalent
  • All Risk Safety Officer S-404 or equivalent

Experience:
Broad and extensive experience in firefighting, fire prevention and administrative duties is required. Must have at least seven years of full-time firefighting experience and three of those years at the Fire Captain level or higher.
License, Certification, and Qualifications
  • A valid Class C California with Fire Fighter endorsement Driver's license and a safe driving record and/or equivalent per the Department of Motor Vehicles to operate Fire Apparatus.
  • Public Safety-First Aid and CPR certification, a valid EMT certification is desirable.
  • Must meet all employment standards for Fire Captain
  • Must complete all required items in Watsonville Fire Department Battalion Chief Task book prior to permanent appointment. Entire task book must be completed prior to achieving permanent status.
  • Meet current California State Fire Marshal Office (CSFM) certification of Fire Chief Officer and/or Chief Officer.
  • Must complete any additional required CSFM Courses or accredited college courses during probationary time period on own time through the City's Tuition Reimbursement program, if available.

Supplemental Information
BC assessment will be held tentatively on the week of August 10, 2026.
The candidate selected will be appointed for a 12-month probationary period. Names of successful candidates who do not receive a job offer will be placed on an employment list that normally remains effective for one year. The Human Resources Department may abolish an Employment List at any time the needs of the city so require. The position is represented by the Management bargaining unit.
Prior to appointment to the position of Battalion Fire Chief, a medical examination, background and Department of Justice LiveScan fingerprinting will be required.
The City of Watsonville is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages workplace diversity. The City of Watsonville is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act by including people with disabilities in all of its programs and activities.
NOTE: THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISIONS CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVISED WITHOUT NOTICE.
City of Watsonville offers excellent medical, dental and vision benefits for the employee and dependents. Benefits also include holidays, vacation, and sick leave. The City offers Public Employees Retirement benefits. Employees shall pay the full employee share of CalPERS contribution.

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