Brief Description

The City of Sterling Heights is seeking an innovative and experienced fire service leader to serve as its next Fire Chief!

Pay range is $152,250 - $178,640 annually
Defined Benefit Pension
Medical with a VERY LOW premium share
Dental at NO COST
Vision with a VERY LOW premium share
$2,500 annual contribution into a Retiree Post Employment Health Plan!
12 Paid holidays
Vacation, sick, and personal time
Clothing allowance
Every other Friday off!
Access to an onsite Employee Health & Wellness Center staffed with a physician and nurse for you and any dependents + incentive for employee and spouse to utilize the center!
...and so much more!

Position Summary

Under the executive direction of the City Manager, the Fire Chief is in charge of the Fire Department. Responsible for establishing and administering policy and planning for the Fire Department, prevention and extinguishment of fire, the protection of life and property against the hazard of fire and other hazardous threats, and ALS response, treatment, and transport. Directs planning and development of Fire Department programs.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Leadership, Public Administration or related field from an accredited college or university is required. A master’s degree is highly desired.
2-years as an Assistant Chief (or equivalent) and an inclusive of 10 years of senior officer leadership serving a population of 50,000 or greater residents with a comparable budget and personnel staffing levels is required.
Strong background in modern fire, EMS, emergency management, and all hazards practices.
A graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer, Chief Fire Officer Designation, or similar certifications preferred.
Participation in state and/or national professional organizations is preferred.

Candidates being considered and moving on to the next steps will be invited to participate in an assessment center on Wednesday, August 26 and Thursday, August 27, 2026. An orientation for the assessment center is scheduled for Thursday, August 13, 2026.

If candidates have any questions, please contact the Office of Human Resources at hr@sterlingheights.gov or call 586-446-2338.

Check out the recruitment brochure for further information and details via the following link: Fire Chief Recruitment Brochure

To view the Summary of Compensation and Benefits document, please click the following link: Summary of Compensation and Benefits - Fire Chief

To learn more about the City of Sterling Heights and our Fire Department, please click HERE

Applicants must apply by Sunday, August 9, 2026.

EOE/M/F/D/V

City of Sterling Heights

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Fire Chief