Fire Chief & Public Safety Leader

City of Mesa; Mesa (AZ); On-site; USD 192,000 - 258,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PSPRS retirement

Deferred compensation

Job summary

City of Mesa in Arizona seeks an exceptional Fire Chief to lead the Mesa Fire & Medical Department, guiding emergency response, risk reduction, and organizational development for a community of over 510,000 residents. This executive role sits on the City’s leadership team and shapes future public safety strategy, workforce wellness, and regional collaboration.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and a proven track record in municipal fire service.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Management, or related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
• Ten (10) plus years of progressively responsible administrative and supervisory experience in fire and life safety education, prevention, and emergency response work at the rank of a Fire Battalion Chief or higher.
• Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver’s License by the date of hire or promotion date. Must not be on the Office of Inspector General (LEIE).

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and administrative direction for all fire and EMS operations, personnel, and programs.
• Oversee emergency response activities, fire prevention, disaster preparedness, training, and regulatory compliance.
• Direct budget preparation, resource management, and maintenance planning for facilities and equipment.
• Serve as liaison to City officials, community organizations, and emergency service agencies; manage public relations and morale.

Skills

Team-oriented

Problem-solving

Collaborative

People-centric leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Management, or related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

City of Mesa in Arizona seeks an exceptional Fire Chief to lead the Mesa Fire & Medical Department, guiding emergency response, risk reduction, and organizational development for a community of over 510,000 residents. This executive role sits on the City’s leadership team and shapes future public safety strategy, workforce wellness, and regional collaboration.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and a proven track record in municipal fire service.