Felton Fire Protection District | Felton, CA

The Board of Directors of the Felton Fire Protection District (FFPD) is seeking a visionary, community-minded, and operational expert to lead as our next Fire Chief.

Nestled in the heart of the San Lorenzo Valley, the Felton Fire Protection District protects a six square mile vibrant community characterized by its stunning redwood forests, unique and varied topography, and community pride. 

We are looking for a Fire Chief who respects our rich history while proactively preparing our Fire District for the challenges of a modern fire service delivery model in a rural community.  

The Position

The Fire Chief serves as the Chief Executive of the Fire  District, reporting directly to a five-member elected Board of Directors. This role requires a “working chief” mentality— someone who is as comfortable managing million-dollar budgets and long-term strategic plans while simultaneously providing command presence and direction on the fire ground daily.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a long-range master plan for equipment replacement, staffing, and facility upgrades.
• Emergency Operations: Oversee all fire suppression, EMS, search and rescue, and hazardous materials responses.
• Community Relations: Act as the face of the District, maintaining strong ties with Felton residents, local businesses, and neighboring San Lorenzo Valley agencies.
• Fiscal Stewardship: Manage the District’s annual budget, ensuring transparency and seeking out grant opportunities.
• Personnel Development: Lead a dedicated team of both volunteer and career staff, fostering a culture of continuous training, safety, and inclusivity.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a leader who possesses:

• Experience: A deep knowledge of fire behavior in urban, suburban environments and mountainous terrain, with a focus on threat reduction and community preparedness.
• Collaborative Spirit: A proven track record of working effectively with state and local fire resources, and Santa Cruz County officials.
• Integrity: High ethical standards and a transparent communication style.
• Adaptability: The ability to navigate the evolving landscape of California’s fire service and community expectations. 

Minimum Qualifications

• Certification: Must be presently certified to the Company Officer level through California State Fire Marshal (CSFM), ProBoard Officer 2 , or the National Fire Academy Officer 2 level.
• Education: Minimum high school graduate or equivalency. (preferred Associate’s Degree or higher) 
• Experience: Minimum 15 years in the fire service and 5 years of progressive leadership at the rank of Captain or higher. (Must be able to demonstrate through the hiring process an above average level of leadership, program management, budgetary management, human relations, and communications.)
• Residency: Must reside within a reasonable response distance to the Felton Fire Station within 6 months of hire. (As determined by the Board of Directors at time of conditional offer)

Minimum Required Certification at Completion of Probationary Period 

• Certification: Must be certified to the Fire Chief level through California State Fire Marshal (CSFM), ProBoard Officer 4, or the National Fire Academy Officer 4 level.
• Must Also Possess: CSFM HazMat IC, CSFM or ProBoard Instructor 2, CSFM or ProBoard Inspector 1, CSFM Safety Officer, ICS 400

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $166,998 – $193,034 (DOE).
• Benefits: 224 hours combined sick leave and vacation annually, Medical stipend, 457B retirement plan with up to 10% employer matching contribution, and a District-provided vehicle within 6 months of appointment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, comprehensive resume, and five professional references to:

• By Email:  [email protected] Attn: To Board of Directors
• In person: Felton Fire Protection District 131 Kirby Street, Felton, CA 95018 
• For General Questions: Contact Interim Fire Chief, Isaac Blum at (831) 252-8001 or [email protected] 

• Closing Date and Time: Friday, June 5th, 2026 at 5:00 pm

         The Felton Fire Protection District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For more information please view the full job description (pdf).