Fire Chief

JOIN OUR EXECUTIVE TEAM!

Are you ready to lead a dynamic, forward-thinking Fire and Rescue Department and step into a pivotal role on our Executive Management Team? If you are driven, visionary, and eager to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to bring your leadership, expertise, and strategic vision to our community as Costa Mesa's next Fire Chief!

For leading the Fire Department, the City is seeking a fire professional who is motivated by public service, recognizes the Department’s success is founded on the success of the City, works collaboratively with others, embraces teamwork and collaboration, is progressive and creative, cultivates strong community ties, supports professional development, leads by example, and serves as a leader in intergovernmental relations throughout the region and state.

The typical background for a successful Chief is extensive experience in fire suppression and prevention work, including supervisory and administrative experience; graduation from a 4-year college with major coursework in fire science, public administration, or a closely related field;
Certification as a Chief Fire Officer by the California State Board of Fire Services; and knowledge of the principles, practices and equipment of modern fire department administration for the protection of life and property.

The City offers a competitive salary of $222,324 up to $297,924 based on experience and qualifications, plus a competitive health benefits and retirement package.

The filing deadline is September 18, 2026.