Fire Chief - Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, CA

Peckham & McKenney Executive Search

1d•$262,850 - $319,496

About The Position

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.