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Public Safety

Fire Chief

Manage and coordinate activities of a fire department. May including leading Supervisors.

Annual openings

n/a

Median wage

n/a

Typical education

Many employers expect a minimum of a Bachelor's degree plus work experience

Projected growth

n/a

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Many employers expect a minimum of a Bachelor's degree plus work experience

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. Work experience as a Supervisor or higher is highly valued.

The fire chief has a say in various department functions, such as fire safety education, fire protection, emergency medical services, and disaster preparedness
The fire chief may provide technical assistance to the city manager or mayor, and represents the interests of the fire service when it comes to planning fire coverage.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerNo
  • OutdoorsYes
  • With your handsYes

Interests it draws on

  • Law Enforcement
  • Fire

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Assign firefighters to jobs at strategic locations to facilitate rescue of persons and maximize application of extinguishing agents.
  2. Provide emergency medical services as required, and perform light to heavy rescue functions at emergencies.
  3. Instruct and drill fire department personnel in assigned duties, including firefighting, medical care, hazardous materials response, fire prevention, and related subjects.
  4. Direct firefighters in station maintenance duties, and participate in these duties.
  5. Recommend personnel actions related to disciplinary procedures, performance, leaves of absence, and grievances.
  6. Evaluate the performance of assigned firefighting personnel.
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