The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive leader with strong administrative and managerial expertise, capable of overseeing complex Fire Department operations while advancing strategic goals. They exercise a high level of independent judgment, translating broad policies into effective action in support of the Department’s mission. This individual has the ability to build strong relationships with public officials, government agencies, and community partners, and demonstrates the leadership and accountability needed to direct all departmental functions. This role carries full responsibility for department-wide leadership, operations, and strategic direction.
The City of Chico is ideally located in the Northern Sacramento Valley, approximately ninety miles north of Sacramento. The City has grown to over 34 square miles with a population of nearly 114,000. Chico is a host to medical, retail, financial, and agricultural services for the North State. Chico is known as a well-managed city that values quality infrastructure and services, and maintains a special sense of community and small - town living. Chico is also known as a vibrant regional center for business, recreation and cultural activities. Residents pride themselves on preserving local heritage and natural resources, with emphasis on sustainability. There are many recreational opportunities in Chico, including Bidwell Park. The park is one of the largest municipally owned parks in the country (3,670 acres), is the focal point of the City’s park system, and offers numerous trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use. Other recreational and scenic opportunities easily accessible from Chico include the Sacramento River; lakes Oroville, Almanor, and Shasta; the Sierra Nevada Mountains; Lassen Volcanic National Park; Mount Shasta; and various ski areas. The City is conveniently located within three hours driving to the San Francisco Bay Area and Lake Tahoe regions. Chico’s historic downtown provides many age groups with choices for entertainment, shopping and dining.
Maximum Salary: $219,082.50 DOE
Retirement: CalPERS 3% @ 50 for Classic members or 2.7% @57 for PEPRA members.
Vacation/Holidays: 15-25 days of paid vacation per year, depending on length of Public service. 11 paid holidays and 1 additional floating holiday per year.
Sick Leave: 8 hours of sick leave earned per month with unlimited accumulation, and retirement credit for hours unused.
Management Leave: 96 hours of leave per year.
Health, Dental and Vision Insurance: Major medical, dental, and vision benefits are available to employee and dependents. Cost varies by plan selection at minimal cost to employee.
Long Term Disability Insurance: Voluntary program, the cost of which is shared by the City and the employee.
Life Insurance: An employee policy rounded to the nearest $1,000 of annual salary and a dependent policy of $1,500 are provided by the City. Supplemental coverage is available at an additional cost to the employee.
Visit us online at www.chicoca.gov, click on the “Jobs” link or visit www.governmentjobs.com/careers/chico
Complete the online application and supplemental questionnaire, and attach a resume and three professional letters of reference.
Following the closing date, applications will be screened against the criteria outlined in this announcement. The most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the interview process.
Recruitment Closing Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
Anticipated Start Date: July 1, 2026
