What are the responsibilities and job description for the Division Chief position at City of Canton?
Salary Range: $86,704 - $127,317
This is a closed promotional examination limited to employees in the classification of Battalion Chief and Captain with the City of Canton, Ohio Fire Department.
To be eligible for this examination, applicants must have completed twelve (12) months in classification of Battalion Chief or Captain by September 26, 2026. Captains, however, will only be permitted to sit for the examination in the event that two Battalion Chiefs do not apply to take the examination.
Internal applicants may submit their application through governmentjobs.com/careers/cantonohio by clicking the “Apply” button on the posting. Applicants must submit a copy of a valid photo ID along with their application. Applicants must apply no later than May 17, 2026.General Statement of Duties:
This is a responsible, professional, and managerial position. The Division Chief manages and administers the operations of the Fire Division. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and directing the activities of assigned personnel. This individual responds to second alarm fires or greater, or when requested by the scene Battalion Chief. He/she is responsible for ensuring that the Battalion Chiefs maintain discipline, efficiency, and compliance with Fire Department directives, rules and regulations of the Division of Fire and Standard Operating Procedures on their respective platoons. He/She formulates policy, plans, training procedures, fire protection procedures, public relations programs, firefighting procedures, records, inspections, and other programs. He/she may be responsible for the running order, duty assignments, City Disaster Plan, National Fire Incident Reporting System, communications policy, Standard Operating Procedure Handbook, Site Plan Review, hiring committee, and Haz-Mat team. This individual is responsible for the management of the Canton Fire Department and for achieving goals and objectives for the department. Directs the efficient and orderly operations of the Bureau of the Operations, Bureau of Apparatus Repair and Building Maintenance, Fire Prevention Bureau, Training Academy, Paramedic Coordinator, and any other personnel under the jurisdiction of the Fire Department not assigned to a platoon. He/she responds to multiple alarm emergencies to assist and to observe the operations of the personnel to ensure that they are following the approved practices and procedures established by the Fire Department. The position involves responsibility for performing a variety of administrative, supervisory, and professional duties in carrying out these mandates.
Minimum Qualifications:
Extensive experience in firefighting, acquiring at least seven years' experience of progressive responsibility through the rank of Battalion Chief to afford familiarity with all phases of divisional operations; completion of a standard high school course, preferably completion of some college courses in management or Fire Science or an Associate's Degree in Fire Science; completion of several firefighting courses; or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Unique Requirements/Physical Requirements:
Comprehensive and detailed knowledge of modern methods of combating fire and of the use and maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus. Comprehensive knowledge of Fire Department rules, regulations, and policies. Knowledge of administrative principles and practices. Thorough knowledge of the geography of the City. Knowledge of Fire Prevention Laws and Ordinances. Knowledge of building construction principles and codes. Ability to remain calm and resourceful in emergencies. Proven ability to direct and command personnel. Ability to maintain discipline and respect of subordinates. Ability to prepare technical and administrative reports. Ability to analyze situations and develop workable solutions. Ability to present ideas effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, City employees, other agencies, and the general public.
Essential Functions:
Performs supervisory and managerial functions under emergency conditions and in unsafe environments as described above under General Statement of Duties.
Description of Work:
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Responsible for creating and enforcing rules and regulations for the administration of the operations under his/her supervision.
Responsible for developing, coordinating, evaluating, managing, and encouraging the implementation of various programs for the division. Ensures suppression personnel are maintaining their required qualifications and are participating in any needed training. Coordinates platoon training activities with support personnel to minimize conflicts in scheduling. Responsible for the administration of the Fire Department and other Divisions and Bureaus under the jurisdiction of the Fire Department. Directs the policies and activities of the Fire Department. Attends meetings and/or regular administrative conferences and in turn conducts meetings with Bureau Heads under his/her supervision. Exercises general supervision over personnel and gives instructions and directions concerning procedures to follow. Provides training to employees. Evaluates employee performance and provides appropriate feedback and follow-up.
Manages and supervises the operations of the assigned division and the activities of its staff. Develops plans and establishes goals and objectives; administers policies and/or procedures. May at times attend drills and training to observe competency and efficiency of company operations and evolutions. Responsible for the implementation of all Federal, State, and local hazardous material legislation that affects the Fire Department. Makes and/or oversees schedules, work assignments, and deadlines.
Devises acceptable standards and procedures for recruitment, selection, and promotion of members of the department. Screens applications based on qualifications, interviews, checks references, and makes recommendations for selecting or rejecting applications. Makes recommendations concerning transfers.
Develops budget goals, plans and objectives, projects, forecasts, and estimates, and in reviewing expenditures and revenues. Performs inventory management responsibilities and makes purchase recommendations.
May directly supervise the work of platoon personnel. Responds to multiple alarm emergencies when required and assists in the direction of personnel and observes same to see if they are following prescribed methods and procedures in controlling the emergency.
Directly supervises and directs work of Battalion Chiefs. Gives instructions and directions concerning procedures to follow to maintain discipline, firefighting readiness, and effectiveness. Delegates to allow the Battalion Chiefs to have as much latitude, authority, and control over their shifts as possible.
Inspects personnel, apparatus, and fire stations to assure high standards are maintained. Coordinates fire inspections for the companies with the Fire Prevention Bureau. Identifies and solves problems. Manages conflicts. Coaches and counsels employees. Evaluates employee performance and provides appropriate feedback and follow through.
Prepares and maintains records and reports delineating the activities of the department. Investigates all accidents to men, apparatus, and equipment, and all charges, complaints, and other matters of an official nature under his/her supervision.
Implements policies and procedures established by the Administration. Identifies problems and potential problems, and recommends solutions to his/her superior. Provides detailed information and guidance to employees in personnel matters. Resolves employee complaints, grievances, and discipline according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement and/or the City's policies and procedures. Adjusts grievances and/or recommends disciplinary action. Assists in the preparation of collective bargaining negotiations.
Conducts meetings pertinent to Fire Department Operations. Performs all duties and conducts himself in accordance with applicable Federal, State and local laws and City and department policies, regulations and procedures. Must be familiar with and have a working knowledge of National Fire Protection standards including safety, apparatus, and hazardous materials.
Discusses operational and departmental problems with managers of other City organizations, employee groups, and individual employees.
Performs other duties relative to supervision/management as required or assigned.THIS IS A PROMOTIONAL TEST. IT IS ONLY OPEN TO BATTALION CHIEFS AND CAPTAINS WITH THE CITY OF CANTON, OHIO HAVING SERVED AT LEAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS AS A BATTALION CHIEF OR A CAPTAIN IN THE DEPARTMENT.
This examination will consist of three parts: an assessment center, which will be weighted at 50%, an oral assessment (panel interview), which will be weighted at 20%, and PRADCO which will be weighted at 30%. The top twelve candidates from the assessment center will advance to the oral assessment provided a minimum passing score of 75% is achieved on the assessment center. The top three candidates from the oral assessment (panel interview) will advance to PRADCO. Any ties will be broken by seniority. Bonus credit will be given for seniority after the three examinations are weighted in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and the Rules and Regulations of the Canton Civil Service Commission, provided a minimum overall score of 70% is attained.
The assessment center for Division Chief will be held on September 26, 2026. Candidates will be notified of the location and time of the assessment center at a later date. Applicants will be admitted to the test site only upon presentation of their valid State of Ohio Driver's License or other valid photo identification card to the examiners.
The oral assessment will be a panel interview, during which each candidate will be asked a series of prepared questions designed to measure performance dimensions based on the expectations of the position. The oral assessment will be held on October 22nd and 23rd, 2026. The location, and time will be announced at a later date.
The City of Canton has chosen PRADCO to conduct the Division Chief Leadership Assessment Process. As part of the promotional process for the position of Division Chief, you will complete a thorough battery of Internet-based evaluation tools.
You will be emailed unique passwords to complete the exercises online through any computer that has an Internet connection. There are no time limits for the online materials. Most people take 3-4.5 hours for this portion of the assessment process, but again there is no time limit. You do not have to complete the entire online assessment battery in one sitting. You will be contacted by a PRADCO administrative staff member and/or Canton Civil Service staff member to schedule an appointment with PRADCO professional(s) to complete the Assessment Interview and Feedback Session. You should allot approximately 1.5 hours for the Assessment Interview and Feedback Session combined.
PRADCO Senior Leadership Assessment will be held on October 29, 2026. The location and time will be announced at a later date.
Please note there are no study materials that need to be read or reviewed in preparation for this assessment.
SENIORITY:
Credit will be given for seniority in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and the Canton Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations provided a minimum overall passing score of 70% is attained on the exam components.*DISCLAIMER*
All applicants should receive an email from noreply@governmentjobs.com confirming that their application was received. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please contact Civil Service atjobs@cantonohio.gov to confirm that your application went through.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for promotion without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, age, type of disability or any other non-merit factor.
ADA COMPLIANCE
Reasonable accommodation in accordance with ADA Compliance will be made available upon request to those qualified applicants in need of it, in order to achieve the essential job functions as described above.
RATING
Your name will be placed on a list of eligible candidates upon receiving a passing grade and promotion shall be in accordance with Sections 124.45 and 124.48 of the Ohio Revised Code.
This is a closed promotional examination limited to employees in the classification of Battalion Chief and Captain with the City of Canton, Ohio Fire Department.
To be eligible for this examination, applicants must have completed twelve (12) months in classification of Battalion Chief or Captain by September 26, 2026. Captains, however, will only be permitted to sit for the examination in the event that two Battalion Chiefs do not apply to take the examination.
Internal applicants may submit their application through governmentjobs.com/careers/cantonohio by clicking the “Apply” button on the posting. Applicants must submit a copy of a valid photo ID along with their application. Applicants must apply no later than May 17, 2026.General Statement of Duties:
This is a responsible, professional, and managerial position. The Division Chief manages and administers the operations of the Fire Division. Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and directing the activities of assigned personnel. This individual responds to second alarm fires or greater, or when requested by the scene Battalion Chief. He/she is responsible for ensuring that the Battalion Chiefs maintain discipline, efficiency, and compliance with Fire Department directives, rules and regulations of the Division of Fire and Standard Operating Procedures on their respective platoons. He/She formulates policy, plans, training procedures, fire protection procedures, public relations programs, firefighting procedures, records, inspections, and other programs. He/she may be responsible for the running order, duty assignments, City Disaster Plan, National Fire Incident Reporting System, communications policy, Standard Operating Procedure Handbook, Site Plan Review, hiring committee, and Haz-Mat team. This individual is responsible for the management of the Canton Fire Department and for achieving goals and objectives for the department. Directs the efficient and orderly operations of the Bureau of the Operations, Bureau of Apparatus Repair and Building Maintenance, Fire Prevention Bureau, Training Academy, Paramedic Coordinator, and any other personnel under the jurisdiction of the Fire Department not assigned to a platoon. He/she responds to multiple alarm emergencies to assist and to observe the operations of the personnel to ensure that they are following the approved practices and procedures established by the Fire Department. The position involves responsibility for performing a variety of administrative, supervisory, and professional duties in carrying out these mandates.
Minimum Qualifications:
Extensive experience in firefighting, acquiring at least seven years' experience of progressive responsibility through the rank of Battalion Chief to afford familiarity with all phases of divisional operations; completion of a standard high school course, preferably completion of some college courses in management or Fire Science or an Associate's Degree in Fire Science; completion of several firefighting courses; or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Unique Requirements/Physical Requirements:
Comprehensive and detailed knowledge of modern methods of combating fire and of the use and maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus. Comprehensive knowledge of Fire Department rules, regulations, and policies. Knowledge of administrative principles and practices. Thorough knowledge of the geography of the City. Knowledge of Fire Prevention Laws and Ordinances. Knowledge of building construction principles and codes. Ability to remain calm and resourceful in emergencies. Proven ability to direct and command personnel. Ability to maintain discipline and respect of subordinates. Ability to prepare technical and administrative reports. Ability to analyze situations and develop workable solutions. Ability to present ideas effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, City employees, other agencies, and the general public.
Essential Functions:
Performs supervisory and managerial functions under emergency conditions and in unsafe environments as described above under General Statement of Duties.
Description of Work:
The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
Responsible for creating and enforcing rules and regulations for the administration of the operations under his/her supervision.
Responsible for developing, coordinating, evaluating, managing, and encouraging the implementation of various programs for the division. Ensures suppression personnel are maintaining their required qualifications and are participating in any needed training. Coordinates platoon training activities with support personnel to minimize conflicts in scheduling. Responsible for the administration of the Fire Department and other Divisions and Bureaus under the jurisdiction of the Fire Department. Directs the policies and activities of the Fire Department. Attends meetings and/or regular administrative conferences and in turn conducts meetings with Bureau Heads under his/her supervision. Exercises general supervision over personnel and gives instructions and directions concerning procedures to follow. Provides training to employees. Evaluates employee performance and provides appropriate feedback and follow-up.
Manages and supervises the operations of the assigned division and the activities of its staff. Develops plans and establishes goals and objectives; administers policies and/or procedures. May at times attend drills and training to observe competency and efficiency of company operations and evolutions. Responsible for the implementation of all Federal, State, and local hazardous material legislation that affects the Fire Department. Makes and/or oversees schedules, work assignments, and deadlines.
Devises acceptable standards and procedures for recruitment, selection, and promotion of members of the department. Screens applications based on qualifications, interviews, checks references, and makes recommendations for selecting or rejecting applications. Makes recommendations concerning transfers.
Develops budget goals, plans and objectives, projects, forecasts, and estimates, and in reviewing expenditures and revenues. Performs inventory management responsibilities and makes purchase recommendations.
May directly supervise the work of platoon personnel. Responds to multiple alarm emergencies when required and assists in the direction of personnel and observes same to see if they are following prescribed methods and procedures in controlling the emergency.
Directly supervises and directs work of Battalion Chiefs. Gives instructions and directions concerning procedures to follow to maintain discipline, firefighting readiness, and effectiveness. Delegates to allow the Battalion Chiefs to have as much latitude, authority, and control over their shifts as possible.
Inspects personnel, apparatus, and fire stations to assure high standards are maintained. Coordinates fire inspections for the companies with the Fire Prevention Bureau. Identifies and solves problems. Manages conflicts. Coaches and counsels employees. Evaluates employee performance and provides appropriate feedback and follow through.
Prepares and maintains records and reports delineating the activities of the department. Investigates all accidents to men, apparatus, and equipment, and all charges, complaints, and other matters of an official nature under his/her supervision.
Implements policies and procedures established by the Administration. Identifies problems and potential problems, and recommends solutions to his/her superior. Provides detailed information and guidance to employees in personnel matters. Resolves employee complaints, grievances, and discipline according to the Collective Bargaining Agreement and/or the City's policies and procedures. Adjusts grievances and/or recommends disciplinary action. Assists in the preparation of collective bargaining negotiations.
Conducts meetings pertinent to Fire Department Operations. Performs all duties and conducts himself in accordance with applicable Federal, State and local laws and City and department policies, regulations and procedures. Must be familiar with and have a working knowledge of National Fire Protection standards including safety, apparatus, and hazardous materials.
Discusses operational and departmental problems with managers of other City organizations, employee groups, and individual employees.
Performs other duties relative to supervision/management as required or assigned.THIS IS A PROMOTIONAL TEST. IT IS ONLY OPEN TO BATTALION CHIEFS AND CAPTAINS WITH THE CITY OF CANTON, OHIO HAVING SERVED AT LEAST TWELVE (12) MONTHS AS A BATTALION CHIEF OR A CAPTAIN IN THE DEPARTMENT.
This examination will consist of three parts: an assessment center, which will be weighted at 50%, an oral assessment (panel interview), which will be weighted at 20%, and PRADCO which will be weighted at 30%. The top twelve candidates from the assessment center will advance to the oral assessment provided a minimum passing score of 75% is achieved on the assessment center. The top three candidates from the oral assessment (panel interview) will advance to PRADCO. Any ties will be broken by seniority. Bonus credit will be given for seniority after the three examinations are weighted in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and the Rules and Regulations of the Canton Civil Service Commission, provided a minimum overall score of 70% is attained.
The assessment center for Division Chief will be held on September 26, 2026. Candidates will be notified of the location and time of the assessment center at a later date. Applicants will be admitted to the test site only upon presentation of their valid State of Ohio Driver's License or other valid photo identification card to the examiners.
The oral assessment will be a panel interview, during which each candidate will be asked a series of prepared questions designed to measure performance dimensions based on the expectations of the position. The oral assessment will be held on October 22nd and 23rd, 2026. The location, and time will be announced at a later date.
The City of Canton has chosen PRADCO to conduct the Division Chief Leadership Assessment Process. As part of the promotional process for the position of Division Chief, you will complete a thorough battery of Internet-based evaluation tools.
You will be emailed unique passwords to complete the exercises online through any computer that has an Internet connection. There are no time limits for the online materials. Most people take 3-4.5 hours for this portion of the assessment process, but again there is no time limit. You do not have to complete the entire online assessment battery in one sitting. You will be contacted by a PRADCO administrative staff member and/or Canton Civil Service staff member to schedule an appointment with PRADCO professional(s) to complete the Assessment Interview and Feedback Session. You should allot approximately 1.5 hours for the Assessment Interview and Feedback Session combined.
PRADCO Senior Leadership Assessment will be held on October 29, 2026. The location and time will be announced at a later date.
Please note there are no study materials that need to be read or reviewed in preparation for this assessment.
SENIORITY:
Credit will be given for seniority in accordance with the Ohio Revised Code and the Canton Civil Service Commission Rules and Regulations provided a minimum overall passing score of 70% is attained on the exam components.*DISCLAIMER*
All applicants should receive an email from noreply@governmentjobs.com confirming that their application was received. If you do not receive a confirmation email, please contact Civil Service atjobs@cantonohio.gov to confirm that your application went through.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for promotion without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, political affiliation, age, type of disability or any other non-merit factor.
ADA COMPLIANCE
Reasonable accommodation in accordance with ADA Compliance will be made available upon request to those qualified applicants in need of it, in order to achieve the essential job functions as described above.
RATING
Your name will be placed on a list of eligible candidates upon receiving a passing grade and promotion shall be in accordance with Sections 124.45 and 124.48 of the Ohio Revised Code.
BY ORDER OF THE CANTON CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
Rachel A. Forchione, Director
Anna M. Moeglin, Assistant Director
Salary : $86,704 - $127,317