Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$142K - $186K/yr
Kate Croteau, Human Resources Director Kcroteau@richfieldmn.gov Rodger Coppa, Interim Fire Chief RodgerCoppa@richfieldmn.gov Join the Richfield Fire Department and help shape the future of fire and ...
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$142K - $186K/yr
Kate Croteau, Human Resources Director Kcroteau@richfieldmn.gov Rodger Coppa, Interim Fire Chief RodgerCoppa@richfieldmn.gov Join the Richfield Fire Department and help shape the future of fire and ...
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$142K - $186K/yr
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 ...
Minneapolis, MN · On-site
$142K - $186K/yr
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 ...
An Interim Fire Chief is a temporary leadership position responsible for managing a fire department until a permanent chief is appointed. They oversee daily operations, personnel, emergency response coordination, and department administration. Their role is to ensure continuity, maintain safety standards, and implement policies effectively. Interim Fire Chiefs may also assist in the hiring process for their successor.
As an Interim Fire Chief, you may be tasked with maintaining stability, building trust within the department, and guiding teams through periods of organizational change. Challenges often include managing staff concerns, upholding operational standards, and implementing new policies while respecting existing procedures. Preparation involves having strong interpersonal skills, an open communication style, and a thorough understanding of department protocols. Being proactive in engaging with team members and stakeholders helps foster a positive work environment and smooth transition. This experience can also serve as excellent preparation for pursuing permanent chief roles in the future.
An Interim Fire Chief needs strong leadership abilities, emergency response experience, and thorough knowledge of fire department operations, usually backed by advanced fire service certifications and significant command experience. Familiarity with fire reporting software, incident command systems, and relevant safety regulations is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills help build team cohesion and trust during transitional periods. These abilities are crucial to provide stable leadership, ensure public safety, and maintain departmental efficiency during interim appointments.
The most popular types of Fire Chief jobs in Minnesota are:
For Interim Fire Chief jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
The top searched job categories for Interim Fire Chief jobs in Minnesota are:
$142K - $186K/yr
Full-time
Posted 11 days ago
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 richfieldmn.gov 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 Kcroteau@richfieldmn.gov Rodger Coppa, Interim Fire Chief RodgerCoppa@richfieldmn.gov 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. Position Overview Job Description 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.