Regional Fire Chief - Strategic Leader for 3 Cities

International Association-Fire Chiefs; 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

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.