The El Dorado County Fire Protection District is seeking an experienced, collaborative leader to serve as its next Fire Chief. Serving more than 62,000 residents across nearly 360 square miles, the District provides all‑risk emergency services including fire suppression, ALS ambulance transport, technical rescue, hazardous materials response, and community risk reduction. With six fire stations, daily staffing of six engine companies and five ambulances, and strong partnerships with CalFire, Tribal governments, and neighboring districts, the District is well‑equipped to meet both urban growth and wildland fire challenges.

In early 2026, pending LAFCO approval, the Diamond Springs‑El Dorado Fire Protection District will merge into El Dorado County Fire. The new Fire Chief will continue to guide the unification process already underway, reporting directly to the seven‑member Board of Directors and serving as the District’s chief executive officer.

The Ideal Candidate The District seeks a proven leader with experience in wildland‑urban interface command and EMS/ambulance administration. Strong fiscal stewardship, transparent communication, and organizational change management are essential. The Chief must be an outward‑facing presence who builds trust with the Board, Fire Safe Councils, community organizations, and interagency partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in public/business/fire administration or related field

• Eight years of progressively responsible public safety experience, including four in management

• Valid California Driver’s License within 60 days of appointment

• Desirable: Master’s degree, Chief Officer Certification, EFO designation, ALS transport experience

Compensation & Benefits Salary range: $220,000 – $250,000 annually, plus CalPERS retirement, health/dental/vision/life/LTD/EAP, deferred compensation, uniform allowance, vacation, sick leave, holidays, 10 executive leave days, and District vehicle. Residency within 30 miles preferred.

Filing Deadline: January 18, 2026
Resumes are acknowledged within 2 business days.

By submitting an application and clicking “submit application” for this position, I agree to the terms of conditions here of the recruitment process facilitated by Peckham & McKenney Executive Search.