City of St. Petersburg Announces Search for New Fire Chief

March 7, 2024 - The City of St. Petersburg is embarking on a search for a new Fire Chief to lead St. Petersburg Fire Rescue. The City is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to continue the department's tradition of excellence in public safety and emergency response.

About the Role:

The Fire Chief position is a crucial role within the City's leadership, responsible for overseeing the operations of St. Petersburg Fire Rescue (SPFR), including budget management, inter-local agreements, and public relations. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive experience in firefighting and emergency management, and a commitment to serving the community. With a minimum of 5 years of executive management experience in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), rescue operations, and fire suppression, along with a Bachelor's degree and requisite certifications, the new Fire Chief will lead SPFR's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and excellence. A desirable Master's degree, extensive management experience, and a track record of successful program implementation are highly valued.

Job Details:

Depending on qualifications and experience, the salary is negotiable, but shall not exceed $227,517. The City also offers competitive health benefits that includes a City Wellness Center for primary care, separate annual leave and sick leave accruals, 11 paid holidays, bereavement leave, a paid parental leave program, and the option of a municipal pension or a 401(a). 

How to Apply:

More details about the position, qualifications, benefits, and the application can be found at stpete.org/jobs. Interested applicants can submit a resume and cover letter through the City of St. Petersburg applicant system prior to the close date. The City of St. Petersburg is committed to conducting a thorough and transparent selection process to identify the best candidate for the Fire Chief position.

About St. Petersburg:

As the fifth largest city in Florida and the second largest in the Tampa Bay Area (which has more than 3.1 million residents), St. Petersburg is a city on the rise. Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast and nicknamed “The Sunshine City,” St. Pete offers a vibrant mix of tropical weather, arts and culture, shopping, dining, sports, and outdoor recreation all along a stunning shoreline that features some of the nation’s top-ranked beaches. With weather that sees averages of 74°F and 361 days of sunshine per year, St. Pete attracts tourists, new residents, and investments from across the country and beyond. In 2023, St. Pete was named a 'Happiest Town in America' by Outside Inc., a 'Best Run City in Florida' by Wallet Hub, and the 'Best City in Florida for Work-Life Balance' by CoWorkingCafe. Visit stpete.org/AboutStPete to learn more.