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How much does a Fire Chief make in Calgary, Alberta?

Fire Chief in Calgary – $99,174 to $169,770 annually.

Average base salary

$65.64 /hour

Pays above Calgary Average Weekly : $2,626 Monthly : $11,378 Yearly : $136,531

National Average $62.64 /hour Salary & tax breakdown

Average cost of living

$3,692 /month

for a single person who rents in Calgary

Cost of living breakdown

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

What does a Fire Chief do?

As a Fire Chief, you'll be at the heart of safeguarding communities, leading teams to protect lives and property. You'll plan and oversee firefighting operations and fire prevention strategies, ensuring safety and efficiency. Your leadership will guide dedicated teams, making a tangible difference in emergency situations. This role is vital in municipal and federal fire departments, as well as in industrial settings with specialized firefighting services. Step into this position to inspire and lead, knowing your work truly matters.

Related Skills:

Crisis Management Firefighting Techniques Training and Development Policy Development Budget Management Show all skills (10)

Core Skills

Crisis Management Leadership

Technical Skills

Firefighting Techniques

Foundational Skills

Training and Development

Analytical Skills

Policy Development Risk Assessment

Resource Management

Budget Management

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills Public Relations Team Coordination

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Highest paying cities for Fire Chief

Calgary, AB

$136,531 per year

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Cranbrook, BC

$133,848 per year

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Edmonton, AB

$135,304 per year

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Winnipeg, MB

$127,504 per year

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Outaouais, QC

$112,549 per year

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Saint, Sauveur, QC

$114,920 per year

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Ottawa, ON

$136,074 per year

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Joliette, QC

$113,464 per year

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How much do similar professions as Fire Chief get paid in Alberta?

Canadian Armed Forces Officer

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$95,971 per year

Social and Community Services Manager

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$93,454 per year

School Principal

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$117,998 per year

Post-Secondary Education Administrator

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$110,926 per year

Public Administration Manager

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$127,400 per year

Education Policy Manager

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$111,010 per year

Government Policy Manager

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$130,603 per year

Health and Social Policy Manager

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$120,682 per year

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers?

Fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers are responsible for planning, organizing, directing, controlling, and evaluating firefighting operations and fire prevention activities. They develop and implement policies, direct firefighting strategies, evaluate fire damage, and oversee training and budget management.

What educational qualifications are required for a career as a fire chief or senior firefighting officer?

Completion of secondary school is required, along with a college program in fire protection technology, fire science, or a related field. Additionally, completion of a provincial or municipal firefighters training course is necessary.

What is the typical salary range for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers?

The salary for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers typically ranges from $47.68 to $81.62.

What skills are essential for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers?

Key skills include budget management, communication skills, crisis management, firefighting techniques, leadership, policy development, public relations, risk assessment, team coordination, and training and development.

In which industries can fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers find employment?

Fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers are employed by municipal and federal governments and by industrial establishments with firefighting services.

What is the job outlook for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers?

The job outlook for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers is generally stable, as there is a consistent need for experienced professionals to manage and lead firefighting operations and fire prevention activities.

Is there potential for salary growth in this career?

Yes, there is potential for salary growth in this career as individuals gain more experience, take on additional responsibilities, and move into higher-level positions within the firefighting hierarchy.

Can fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers work remotely?

Due to the nature of the job, which involves direct management of firefighting operations and on-site presence during emergencies, remote work is generally not feasible for fire chiefs and senior firefighting officers.

What is the population of Calgary, Alberta?

Calgary has a population of 1,306,784 as of 2021, which represents a 6% increase since 2016. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the average income in Calgary?

The average employment income in 2020 was $60,450, while the median for full-time, full-year workers was $72,500. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What are housing costs like in Calgary?

The median monthly shelter cost for owned dwellings is $1,720, compared to $1,350 for rented dwellings. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the unemployment rate in Calgary?

The unemployment rate in 2021 was 12.5%. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

How many people in Calgary own their home?

68.8% of households in Calgary are owner-occupied, while 31.2% are renters. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

20,000 Canadian salary reported, updated November 19, 2025 (data source: open.canada.ca).