Richmond (TX) Fire Department

Seeks Leader, Mentor, Forward-Thinking Fire Chief

Richmond, Texas, a charming and expanding suburb of Houston and the proud county seat of Fort Bend County, Texas, is seeking a forward-thinking, creative Fire Chief to lead a growing fire service agency to the “next level” of customer service excellence.

Located conveniently in the heart of Fort Bend County, Richmond, the county seat, is just 8 miles west of Sugar Land and a mere 15 miles from southwest Houston. This prime location means easy access to all the fantastic amenities the Houston Metroplex has to offer. With an approximate area of 4.91 square miles, Richmond beautifully blends its rich history with impressive new, modern growth. This creates a truly diverse community where residents genuinely experience the best of both worlds. Our vibrant city is home to 13,305 people across approximately 4,432 households. Richmond is on the cusp of significant residential and commercial expansion, mirroring Fort Bend County's projected population surge of 2.1 million over the next three decades. Richmond, Texas, is rich in culture, history, and adventure, which is a challenge to find elsewhere.

The Richmond Fire Department operates with a highly skilled team across three stations, ensuring comprehensive coverage for our community and beyond! Each of our three shifts comprises 11 dedicated personnel, working a 48-hour on, 96-hour off rotating schedule. Every shift includes 1 Battalion Chief, 3 Lieutenants, 3 Driver/Operators, and 4 Firefighters.

As Fire Chief, you'll directly supervise the Assistant Fire Chief and the Fire Marshal, leading a team committed to excellence. Beyond the city limits, our department proudly serves several nearby communities, creating a response district of approximately 60 square miles. Our Richmond firefighters are not only exceptional at fire suppression but are also highly trained in a wide array of specialized rescue operations. They actively collaborate with other county agencies to form crucial Regional Response Teams. The incoming Fire Chief will have the exciting opportunity to evaluate and provide leadership that will enhance all facets of the Richmond Fire Department.

From Humble Beginnings to a Full-Service Powerhouse, Richmond's commitment to safety has a powerful history! Back in 1885, after a devastating fire swept through downtown Richmond, our community came together. With no formal fire department, the legendary "Bucket Brigade" of neighbors stepped up, showcasing the incredible spirit of our town. Fast forward to today, and the Richmond Fire Department is a full-service agency proudly offering fire suppression, prevention, and comprehensive training services. We're looking for a Fire Chief of impeccable character who truly embodies servant leadership and who can embrace the City's guiding values: Professionalism, Results, Integrity, Dedication, Empathy (PRIDE). The ideal candidate will be a master at building exceptional relationships, nurturing a collaborative environment, and always putting the success and well-being of others first. This leader will be a passionate advocate for fire and life safety, dedicated to inspiring our incredible staff and achieving organizational goals in close partnership with the City Manager and senior leadership team.

Are you ready to lead our dedicated team and build upon Richmond's proud legacy of safety and community service?

Required Qualifications

· Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science, Public Administration, Business Management, or related discipline from an accredited school or university.

· A minimum of 5 years of experience in Fire Department management, including budgeting, planning, and administration.

· A certified Emergency Medical Technician-B (or greater) by the Texas Department of Health and Human Services or National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.

· Certification as a TCFP Texas Advanced Firefighter, or IFSAC equivalent, and ability to obtain TCFP certification.

· Certification as a TCFP Level II Instructor, or IFSAC equivalent, with the ability to obtain TCFP certification.

· Certified as a TCFP Fire Officer I and II, or IFSAC equivalent, with the ability to obtain TCFP certification.

· Valid Class B Texas Driver’s License or obtained within thirty days after hiring. Driving records must meet City guidelines.

· Basic EMT-B (or higher) from the Texas Department of State of Health Services and as an EMT (or higher) by the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians.

Preferred Qualifications

· Master’s Degree or higher in a related field from an accredited educational institution from an accredited school or university.

· Professionally credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer with the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

· IFSAC Fire Officer IV certified.

· Certification in Arson Investigation and Inspector from the Texas Commission on Fire Protection Personnel Standards and Education (TCFP) or equivalent.

· Certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) as a Basic Peace Officer (or higher).

· National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer (EFO) certification.

The anticipated starting salary is from $128,713.10 up to $160,891.12 DOQ/DOE. A superior benefits package is also offered, including Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) at the 7% employee contribution level with a 2-to-1 match by the City upon retirement. Other benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, as well as vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, an optional MissionSquare 457 and Roth deferred compensation plan, and other highly competitive benefits.

Tentative Process Timeline

· Position Advertisement Begins: Monday, June 23^rd

· Position Closes: Sunday, July 20^th

· Review of Applications: As Received.

· Mgt./Leadership Questionnaire Distributed: As Qualified Applicants Identified.

· Top Candidates Identified/Teleconference Calls: Week of July 28^th

· Presentation of Candidate Final Ranking to City: Week of August 11^th

· Finalists On-Site Interviews/Assessment Center: Week of August 18^th

To learn more, please review the full hiring brochure:

Richmond (TX) Fire Chief Brochure

Qualified candidates may apply online at:

Richmond (TX) Fire Chief Online Application

Please note that applicants must upload a cover letter, resume, and relevant credentials as part of the application process. Only applications submitted through the above link will be considered.

Filing Deadline: Sunday, July 20th

Richmond TX jobs

Fire Chief - Richmond (TX)