Aurora, IL – Fire Chief – Aurora Fire Department

The City of Aurora is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Fire Chief in the Fire Department.

Under direction of the Mayor, the Fire Chief plans, administers, and directs the operation and activities of all sworn fire and civilian personnel assigned to the Aurora Fire Department.

The duties of this position include but are not limited to: Develop and implement departmental policy and procedures governing and regulating the Aurora Fire Department; Provide direction to personnel through subordinate administrative and supervisory staff; Provide oversight to Emergency Management Services; Prepare annual budget proposals; Develop long-range plans based upon community growth and changes in technologies and services; Responsible for the purchase and management of physical assets such as fire stations and vehicles; Oversee education and training of Fire Department command staff; Respond to and take command at major fires and emergency rescue operations; Review and approve mutual aid fire services with other local jurisdictions; Serve as departmental representative to the general public; Other duties as assigned.

This position requires a bachelor’s degree with substantial coursework in fire science, management, or related field; or equivalent experience, knowledge, and skills. This position also requires the possession of a fire officer certification and a valid driver’s license. The candidate must have a minimum of three (3) years of management level experience in the fire service.

Residency requirement: Each department head shall either be a resident of the city at the time of appointment and confirmation by the city council, or within twelve (12) months of the date of appointment and confirmation by city council (time period may be extended upon the approval of the mayor and the city council).

Must successfully pass pre-hire requirements including but not limited to physical, drug screen, and background check. Serving as department head also requires the completion of the appointment process through City Council.

This is a full-time, executive position. The annual salary is $227, 323.20.

Executive Benefits:

The City of Aurora offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and eligible part-time employees in accordance with the City’s Executive Pay Plan.

• Health, dental, vision, and life insurances
• Annual pay increases
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF)
• Paid vacations, holidays, floating holidays, personal days, and sick leave
• Gym membership reimbursement
• Interpreters Stipend
• Tuition Reimbursement
• May be eligible for Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program (if requirements are met)

Applications should be submitted online by 3 PM on December 3, 2025.

To learn more about the City of Aurora, IL, visit  https://www.aurora.il.us/Government-and-Engagement/About-Our-City.