Fire Chief

FIRE CHIEF - City of Hood River, Oregon

First Review:
December 7, 2025
Salary Range: $115,014 - $141,452 annually DOQ

View the Position Profile

The City of Hood River is seeking a Fire Chief for this vibrant waterfront community located at the confluence of the Hood and Columbia Rivers, 60 miles east of Portland, Oregon. The city is the county seat of Hood River County and a gateway to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, renowned for sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and wing foiling. Hood River is a full-service city serving approximately 8,800 residents across 3.4 square miles with a total  budget of $64 million and a team of 70 FTEs.

Hood River Fire & EMS is a predominantly career fire department proudly serving its community since 1904. With a 2025–2026 budget of $4.9 million, the department operates out of a single station with a minimum staffing level of four firefighter/paramedics on duty 24/7. In 2024, the department responded to 2,127 emergency calls—a 5.3% increase over the previous year. The department provides emergency medical transport services across a 145-square-mile service area encompassing all of Hood River County and portions of western Wasco County.

Reporting to the City Manager, the Fire Chief is responsible for overseeing the City’s comprehensive fire, life safety, and emergency medical services. The Fire Chief works closely with the City Manager, City Council, and community members to determine service level policies and programs while monitoring public needs and feedback through community groups and citizen engagement. The position provides an administrative framework to ensure a fully trained and proficient workforce, equipped with effective resources to deliver the services identified by the community.

The City of Hood River is an appealing opportunity for a hands‑on, relationship‑driven Fire Chief who prioritizes both people and progress. Set against a stunning backdrop of mountains, rivers, and endless outdoor activities, Hood River is a vibrant, family‑friendly community that values health, balance, and connection. The Fire Department is well‑equipped and well‑funded, with active roles in EMS, transport, rescue, and wildland operations.

With a collaborative and supportive city council, strong labor relations, and a professional management structure, the next Chief will inherit a department rooted in integrity, safety, and service.

For questions on this position, please contact:

Gordie Olson and Jim Davis
GMP Consultants