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Job Description
Fire Chief
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (Contra Costa Fire) is seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking leader to serve as its next Fire Chief. Serving more than 790,000 residents across 13 cities and 11 unincorporated communities, the District provides full‑service, all‑risk emergency response across 582 square miles. With 37 fire stations, 41 companies, and 650 personnel, Contra Costa Fire protects one of the most diverse and complex regions in the San Francisco Bay Area, including dense urban centers, major industrial corridors, transportation hubs, and extensive WUI zones.
Through its nationally recognized Fire‑EMS Alliance, the District delivers integrated first response and high‑performance ambulance transport, overseeing a system that includes 300–400 AMR personnel. The next Chief will guide major initiatives including Alliance 2.0, consolidation with the Rodeo‑Hercules Fire Protection District, and the 2026 transition to a unified hazardous materials and industrial safety organization.
The Ideal Candidate
The District seeks a decisive, politically aware executive with deep experience in large‑agency operations, EMS transport systems, hazardous materials response, industrial safety, and WUI operations. The Chief must be an authentic, relationship‑driven leader who excels in labor relations, community engagement, and regional collaboration. Strong financial acumen, capital project oversight, and organizational development skills are essential.
Qualifications
- Certified Fire Officer (CFSTES)
• Three years of full‑time experience as a Deputy Fire Chief or equivalent
• Valid California Driver’s License
• Residency within a reasonable response distance
Desirable: Bachelor’s or master’s degree; EFO; extensive EMS/ALS transport and HazMat/industrial safety background
Compensation & Benefits
Annual salary: $262,850–$319,496 plus CCCERA retirement, medical/dental/vision, life and disability insurance, leave benefits, professional development, and District vehicle.
Filing Deadline
March 20, 2026
To apply, visit Peckham & McKenney at www.peckhamandmckenney.com. For more information, contact Executive Recruiter Carl Cahill at (866) 912‑1919, cell (650) 504‑3515, or carl@peckhamandmckenney.com.
- Certified Fire Officer (CFSTES)
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Job Requirements
see above
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Special Instructions
Please visit our website at www.peckhamandmckenney.com to apply for this opportunity.
Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
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ABOUT THE COMPANY
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Peckham & McKenney
Show moreWith over 50 years of combined experience in executive search, management and local government, Peckham & McKenney brings a high level of understanding and service to their clients and candidates.
Peckham & McKenney provides Executive Search and Consulting services to local government agencies throughout the Western United States and is headquartered in Sacramento, CA, with an office in Lake Tahoe and a presence in Denver, CO.
Peckham & McKenney was established on the premise that an executive search and consulting firm must be dedicated to providing its clients and candidates with professional service, as well as a personal, hands-on approach. Our business philosophy centers upon the understanding that this is a "people" oriented industry and that attention to others' needs is the key to providing excellent customer service. Not only are we committed to providing our clients with well-qualified candidates, but we also take pride in treating both clients and candidates with the utmost respect that they deserve.
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