Fire Chief

Job Description:

Fire Chief

Description

Located in East County San Diego, Heartland Fire & Rescue serves the vibrant and diverse communities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove. Each city brings its own distinct character, neighborhoods, and community traditions, creating a dynamic region where residents, businesses, and visitors benefit from a strong sense of local identity and connection. From established residential neighborhoods and thriving commercial districts to community gathering places and expanding development, the three cities represent a varied service environment that calls for responsive leadership, thoughtful planning, and a deep commitment to public safety. The region’s proximity to the broader San Diego metropolitan area offers residents access to a wide range of employment, educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities. Heartland Fire & Rescue plays an essential role in protecting the people, property, and quality of life that make these communities special. Through emergency response, fire prevention, emergency medical services, public education, and community preparedness, the organization works every day to build safer, stronger, and more resilient communities.

 

Reporting to the City Managers of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, the Fire Chief provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the regional organization’s comprehensive fire and emergency services, including fire suppression, fire prevention, emergency medical response, hazardous materials response, disaster preparedness, and related public safety programs. Heartland Fire & Rescue seeks a leader who can unite people around a common purpose, build and sustain trust, and lead with both humility and conviction. The successful candidate will be approachable without avoiding difficult conversations, collaborative without compromising sound judgment, and decisive without losing sight of the value of others’ perspectives. This individual will inspire confidence, advance the organization’s strategic priorities, and help Heartland Fire & Rescue realize the full potential of its regional partnership.

 

The annual salary range for an external candidate for the Fire Chief position is $209,497.60 – $254,654.40; placement within this range is dependent on qualifications and experience. If you are interested in this outstanding opportunity, please visit our website at www.bobmurrayassoc.com to apply online. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Mr. Mike Ishii at (916) 784-9080.

Filing Deadline: December 6, 2026

Salary:

$209,497.60 – $254,654.40