WA – Fire Chief – Lewis County Fire District – First Review

Fire Chief Lewis County Fire District 6 Chehalis, Washington Salary: $126,000 – $140,000

to view the Fire Chief Position Profile

Located in southwestern Washington, halfway between Seattle and Portland, Oregon, along Interstate 5, Lewis County is brimming with simple pleasures, relaxing excursions, and world-class outdoor adventures. Approximately one-third of Lewis County is national forest and Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams are easily accessible. Adventure seekers will find excellent hiking, cycling, canoeing, white water rafting, hang gliding, and rock‑climbing opportunities.

The White Pass Ski Area also provides the driest powder in Washington and 1,500‑feet of vertical drop. Residents of Lewis County have quick and easy access to many cultural activities, fairs, concerts, entertainment options, and a wide assortment of annual events.

Lewis County Fire District 6 (LCFD6) is a progressive combination fire district that provides fire and ALS services to approximately 8,100 citizens throughout a 145 square mile service area that surrounds the City of Chehalis and Adna. The District has four fire stations, including one fully‑manned station, a partially manned station, and two volunteer response stations. The District operates on a 2026 budget of $2,893,243 with 15 FTEs, including the Fire Chief, an Executive Secretary, three Lieutenants (two Firefighter/EMTs and one Firefighter/Paramedic), six Firefighter/Paramedics, and four Firefighter/EMTs.

On average, the District responds to approximately 1,000 calls per year.

Appointed and supervised by the LCFD6 Board of Commissioners, the Fire Chief is responsible for the management and administration of the fire department. The Chief is responsible for developing programs and budgets based on analysis of District’s needs, identified risks, workload and staffing, as well as other economic and regulatory issues. The Fire Chief oversees department operations, administers disciplinary actions and ensures proper skills training within the department.

The Fire Chief responds to major emergencies and must be prepared at all times to take on the role of Incident Commander and/or participate in other aspects of the incident response.

A bachelor’s degree in fire, public or business administration or related field and seven (7) years of fire and EMS command experience, with at least five (5) years in positions having full supervisory responsibilities is required. EMT certification (all levels) and previous experience in an equivalent position is a plus but not required. Candidates must have extensive knowledge of fire and emergency medical services, along with strong skills and understanding of leadership, management, and supervisory principles.

Competitive candidates will also have an ongoing record of training and professional development and will demonstrate a commitment to a strong departmental training program. Any combination of education and experience may be substituted as long as it provides the desired skills, knowledge, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

generous medical, dental, and vison benefit package – employee cost sharing of premiums, depending upon plan choice;
Washington State LEOFF Retirement; deferred compensation available; 10 annual paid holidays; 15 days of vacation (open to negotiation); 12 days of sick leave (open to negotiation).

For a complete position profile and to apply online, visit Prothman at , click on “Open Recruitments” and then click the position title. For questions, call . Lewis County Fire District 6 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Apply by February 15, 2026. (First review, open until filled.)