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Job Description
Fire Chief
El Dorado County Fire Protection District
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.
Recruitment Schedule
- Application Filing Deadline: January 18, 2026
- Preliminary Screening Interviews: Week of January 19, 2026
- Finalist Interviews: Week of February 16, 2026
To apply, visit Peckham & McKenney www.peckhamandmckenney.com. For more information, contact Executive Recruiter Carl Cahill at (866) 912‑1919, cell (650) 504‑3515, or email carl@peckhamandmckenney.com.
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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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