Fire Chief

Bob Murray & Associates; La Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 209,000 - 255,000; Full time

Job summary

Heartland Fire & Rescue in East County San Diego seeks a collaborative Fire Chief to lead the regional fire and emergency services.

Reporting to the City Managers of El Cajon, La Mesa and Lemon Grove, you will provide executive leadership, strategic direction, and oversee fire suppression, prevention, EMS, hazmat, and disaster preparedness.

The annual salary range is $209,497.60 – $254,654.40 for external candidates, with filing deadline December 6, 2026.

Qualifications

• Extensive leadership experience in a multi-city fire service.
• Strategic vision with strong operational judgment.
• Ability to build regional partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for Heartland Fire & Rescue.
• Manage three member cities and regional partnerships.
• Oversee fire suppression, prevention, EMS, hazmat, disaster preparedness.

Job 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 working, 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 is seeking a collaborative, strategic, and forward-thinking fire service leader who can effectively manage three member cities, foster strong regional partnerships, and champion a shared vision for exceptional fire and emergency services. The ideal candidate will be an accomplished fire service executive who combines strong leadership abilities, sound operational judgment, and strategic vision with an approachable, collaborative, and trustworthy leadership style.

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.

Filing Deadline: December 6, 2026