Fire Chief

City of Cleveland, Georgia — Fire Chief Job Opening

Position Title: Fire Chief
Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
Location: Cleveland, Georgia
Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports to: City Manager (Operational & Administrative)
Hiring Authority: Mayor & City Council

About Cleveland, Georgia

Nestled in the foothills of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Cleveland, Georgia, is a picturesque mountain town that perfectly blends natural beauty with small-town charm. Our community is a growing, rural community that offers easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and outdoor adventures — all set against a backdrop of Southern hospitality and close-knit community life. Home to unique attractions like Babyland General Hospital and a historic downtown district, Cleveland is a welcoming place where nature, history, and community come together. If you are a fire service professional seeking a leadership role in a supportive and serene environment, the Cleveland Fire Department might be the right opportunity for you.

Position Overview

The City of Cleveland is seeking a visionary, experienced, and dedicated leader in its mission to protect lives, property, and the environment through prevention, preparedness, education, and emergency response. The Fire Chief serves as the executive officer of the Fire Department and is responsible for leadership, administration, and operations. This position reports to the City Manager and works closely with the Mayor and City Council on matters related to personnel decisions and strategic planning.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 10 years of fire service experience, including 5 years in a supervisory role
• Valid Georgia Class F or Commercial Driver’s License
• State of Georgia Basic Firefighter Certification (preferably NPQ Firefighter I & II)
• NPQ Fire Officer I and II preferred
• NPQ Fire Instructor I
• NIMS 100, 200, 300, 400, 700, and 800 certifications required
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification preferred

Compensation & Benefits

Salary and benefits will be commensurate with experience and qualifications and are competitive within the region. The City of Cleveland offers a supportive work environment, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on a growing mountain community.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a completed application, resume, and cover letter to Lisa Ritchie, HR Liaison, 85 South Main Street, Cleveland, GA 30528 or via email at lritchie@clevelandga.org

For more information, please visit our website at https://www.clevelandga.org/fire-department/job-opening/fire-chief.

Join Our Team

Be part of a growing community that values public safety, natural beauty, and strong community connections. Lead the Cleveland Fire Department into its next chapter of excellence. We look forward to receiving your application.