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.

Tagged as: California Firefighter Jobs