Fire Battalion Chief - Promotional

Applications are accepted exclusively through the City of Ventura Career Site:
www.cityofventura.ca.gov/jobs. Submissions through other websites or methods will not be accepted.
 

Pay & Benefits

Whether you're starting your career journey or seeking new opportunities, we welcome all and offer: 

• Competitive pay and benefits
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Retirement: CalPERS retirement system
• Wellness Program

Salary Range (DOQ):

• Fire Battalion Chief (40-hour workweek): $73.6382 - $98.6753
• Fire Battalion Chief (56-hour workweek): $52.5987- $70.4824

About the Opportunity

Under the direction of the Operations Chief, the Fire Battalion Chief oversees and supervises the operations of an assigned battalion of fire companies and coordinates activities with other shifts, divisions, and programs within the Fire Department and the City. This position serves a key leadership role in the City’s emergency and disaster response efforts. Battalion Chiefs may be assigned to a fifty-six (56) or forty (40) hour per week schedule.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Provide direct supervision and leadership to company officers assigned to a shift; monitor operational activities and implement actions to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.
• Serve as a member of the department’s management team, contributing to the development of the annual budget and departmental programs, and assuming a leadership role in the City’s emergency response and disaster preparedness plans.
• Respond to and assume command of major emergency incidents, including fires, medical emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, rescues, and other critical events.
• Oversee personnel and operations across all aspects of fire department functions; evaluate equipment and facilities and recommend repairs, replacements, and improvements.
• Plan, schedule, and coordinate departmental programs related to emergency response, fire prevention, and public education.
• Represent the department and the City through public presentations and participation with community organizations, boards, commissions, and other groups.
• Operate radio, telecommunications, and office equipment, including computers, as required.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications – Required

Education and Experience: A combination of education, training, and/or experience equivalent to graduation from high school and seven years of progressively responsible experience in a public fire agency, including at least two years of experience as a Fire Captain with the Ventura Fire Department. A bachelor’s degree or higher, supplemented by coursework or specialized training in a related field, is desirable. Management certification and/or training in effective management practices is highly desirable.

License: Depending on assignment, possession of a valid California Class C driver’s license may be required.

Certificates: Possession of a current and valid EMT-1 or EMT-P certification is required. Possession of a current and valid CPR certification is required.

About the Department

The Ventura Fire Department proudly serves the vibrant and diverse community of Ventura, providing all-hazards emergency response from six strategically located fire stations covering approximately 32 square miles. Each year, our firefighter-paramedics respond to more than 18,000 incidents, including fires, medical emergencies, rescues, hazardous materials responses, and mutual aid calls.

As the county seat and home to roughly 110,000 residents, Ventura offers an unmatched quality of life with scenic beaches, parks, trails, and a historic downtown.

Built on character, integrity, and accountability, the Ventura Fire Department offers a rewarding career for those committed to protecting others and making a lasting impact in their community.

How to Apply & Selection Process

***OPEN ONLY TO CURRENT REGULAR CITY OF VENTURA EMPLOYEES***

Submit your online City job application and supplemental questionnaire by the filing deadline. Resumes may be attached but will not replace a completed application or supplemental questionnaire. All communication regarding your application will be via email, so please check your inbox regularly and ensure your contact information is current.

Application Deadline: Monday, August 24, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Selection Process Timeline:

Department Selection Interview:
Candidates meeting the minimum qualifications will have their name placed on an eligibility list for the position of Fire Battalion Chief and forwarded to the Fire department for consideration. The selection process may involve any or all of the following: a written communication exercise, a comprehensive assessment of the professional and personal skills and abilities, a review of past performance appraisals, recommendations from previous supervisors, recommendations from the management team, and a department selection interview. The Fire Chief may select any candidate whose name has been certified to the eligibility list.

Learn more about the Fire Battalion Chief on the job description here.

The Eligibility List established for this classification may be used to fill other regular and temporary vacancies at the discretion of the City.

Additional Information

To learn more about the City’s hiring process, visit the City of Ventura Hiring Process page.
 

Questions? Contact the Recruitment Team:
[email protected]

(805) 654-7802