05/20/2026
**The Village of Chicago Ridge is seeking to Hiring a Fire Chief**
The Village of Chicago Ridge is seeking an experienced fire service administrator with exceptional interpersonal skills and progressive management experience to serve as its Fire Chief. The successful candidate will possess a proven track record of innovative initiatives that have resulted in operational efficiencies. The Fire Chief has overall direction of fire prevention, fire suppression, and emergency medical services (EMS). Our department consist of a hybrid of Career Firefighter / Paramedics, Part Time Firefighter Paramedics and EMTs, Paid on Call Firefighters, and Residential Rental inspectors.
The Village of Chicago Ridge is a thriving community; with the third largest Shopping mall in the state of Illinois, with a daytime population of approximately 40,000. Our Fire Department services the Village of Chicago Ridge and is part of the MABAS Division 21 Box Alarm system which includes the neighboring villages of Oak Lawn, Worth, Palos Hills, and Bridgeview. In 2025, the department responded to over 3800 calls for service. Strong strategic leadership and communication skills are required, along with labor relations, project management and budgetary experience. The successful candidate should be able to demonstrate a history of successful partnerships with other municipal and fire service agencies, promoting cooperation and increased efficiency.
State of Illinois Minimum Requirements:
• Certified Firefighter II (Basic Operations Firefighter).
• Certified Fire Officer II (Advanced Fire Officer).
• Certified Incident Safety Officer.
• Meet Illinois Fire Chief Certification standards.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license.
• Knowledge of fire suppression, EMS, and emergency management.
Educational Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Master’s degree preferred.
Benefits:
• Paid holidays per the village schedule.
• Vacation time is based on years of service.
• Sick leave allowance.
• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).
Salary is commensurate with experience plus excellent fringe benefits, including health, dental, life insurance and pension. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We invite candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply, knowing that unique perspectives enhance our service to the community.
Application Timeline:
Applications can be picked up at the Village of Chicago Ridge Monday thru Friday from 09:00 – 16:00 – Applicants must submit a complete application package, including all relevant certifications, proof of qualifications, and any letters of recommendation. Incomplete submissions may not be considered
• Applications are due by May 29, 2026, by 3:00 p.m. Central Daylight Time.
• Interviews will be conducted in June 2026.
• Expected start date for the selected candidate: August 1, 2026.
Internal candidates and current qualified residents of the Village of Chicago Ridge will receive full consideration. Join us in shaping the future of public safety in Chicago Ridge!
Resumes may be submitted to Village Clerk Barbara Harrison, 10455 S. Ridgeland, Chicago Ridge, Illinois 60415, [email protected]
