Sonoita-Elgin Fire District, a dynamic combination department in SE Arizona, invites applications from internal and external candidates for the following positions:  

5-13-2026 OPERATIONS CHIEF:

 Completed applications must be sent via email (PDF format only) to: flaherty@sefd911.org

SEFD-PERSONNEL-APPLICATION 2024 #1.pdfSEFD Operations Chief Announcement May 2026.pdf

 

Operations Chief Hiring Process 2026

Join Our Team The Sonoita-Elgin Fire District (SEFD) welcomes applications from internal and external candidates to join the department as our next Operations Chief. Applications accepted through May 29. Onsite testing and interviews June 9 and 10. Position available July 1. Applications available on SEFD website (www.sefd911.org) or by email request toflaherty@sefd911.org

Job Description:

The Operations Chief serves as a senior leader within SEFD, responsible for overseeing all emergency response operations, including fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue, and operational readiness. Under the direction of the Fire Chief, this position ensures the effective delivery of services, operational preparedness, personnel performance, and compliance with district policies and applicable regulations. The Operations Chief plays a key role in leadership, planning, training coordination, and the development of operational systems that support SEFD’s mission and community expectations.

About SEFD:

Sonoita-Elgin Fire District is a combination department serving a rural and diverse response area with a commitment to professional service, operational readiness, and community engagement. SEFD provides fire suppression, EMS treatment and transport, rescue services, and mutual aid response within the region.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Oversee all fire and EMS operations, ensuring readiness and response effectiveness

• Manage and maintain the department’s incident management system Operations Chief Job Description-2026

• Serve as a Command Officer and participate in incident command as needed

• Ensure compliance with SEFD Response Guidelines and Command Procedures

 

Personnel Management:

 

• Supervise company officers and line personnel

• Support hiring, promotional processes, and workforce development

• Ensure personnel maintain required certifications and competencies

• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement

Training & Development:

• Coordinate all fire and EMS training programs

• Ensure compliance with SEFD Training Policy and Minimum Company Standards

• Identify training needs and support skill development across the organization

Administrative & Strategic Functions:

• Manage Operations and EMS budgets in coordination with the Fire Chief

• Oversee EMS program components, including medications and compliance

• Assist with grant writing and strategic planning initiatives

• Provide reports and recommendations to the Fire Chief and Fire Board

Safety & Risk Management:

• Promote a strong safety culture aligned with SEFD policies

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, NFPA, and state requirements

• Review incidents, identify trends, and implement corrective actions

Interagency & Community Relations:

• Serve as liaison with partner agencies, hospitals, and regional stakeholders

• Represent SEFD in meetings, training, and cooperative efforts

• Support community risk reduction and public education efforts

Minimum Qualifications:

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Valid Driver’s License

• Minimum 8 years of progressively responsible fire service experience including a command-level role.

Operations Chief Job Description-2026

• Arizona CEP

• BLS, ACLS, PALS (or equivalent)

• Arizona Firefighter I and II

• NWCG FF II

• Blue Card Certification (or ability to obtain within 18 months)

Preferred:

• Associate’s Degree or higher in Fire Science, EMS, or related field

• Fire Instructor, Inspector, or Investigator certifications

• NWCG Firefighter I or higher Work Schedule

• 40-hour work week, with additional on-call responsibilities

• Participation in command response and after-hours incidents as needed

Residency Requirement:

• Must reside within 60 minutes of SEFD Station 1

Benefits and Salary Salary range $70,000-$75,000, Health, dental and vision available with significant SEFD contribution towards premiums, PSPRS or ASRS plan for retirement, uniform allowance

Ideal Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate is a progressive and collaborative leader who:

• Demonstrates strong operational and command-level experience

• Values training, accountability, and team development

• Communicates effectively across all levels of the organization

• Builds trust internally and externally

• Is adaptable in a rural, combination department environment Hiring Timeline 2026

• Applications accepted 05-13 to 05-29 o Candidate Information Packet provided upon receipt of application

 

 

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 Later in 2026:

Firefighter/EMT or PM 

Applications are available at the station, by clicking the link below or by email request-flaherty@sefd911.org

 Completed applications must be sent via email (PDF format only) to: flaherty@sefd911.org

QUESTIONS? CONTACT THE ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE (FLAHERTY@SEFD911.ORG) OR 520-988-5162 ADMIN. CELL

SEFD-PERSONNEL-APPLICATION 2024 #1.pdf

 Eligible candidates not selected for the position will be kept on an eligibility list for possible future openings.

Minimum Qualifications:

REQUIRED:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Valid driver’s license

• Current CPR (BLS/HCP for all, ACLS, PALS for paramedics)

PREFERRED:

        • NWCG Firefighter I (or higher)

• AZ EMT or PM Certification
• AZ FF 1 and 2 (or equivalent)
• NREMT current

Compensation and Benefits (partial list)-

• Annual salary approx. $46,500 to $50,000 (based on qualifications) base plus overtime opportunities and wildland assignments

• Annual clothing allowance

• Participation in PSPRS

• Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage (SEFD contributes up to $490 monthly)

**** All candidates must be able to complete an in-person interview, 1582 annual physical and Fire and EMS assessments****

Interviews and testing will take place the first week of August.   If, offered employment, candidates not currently possessing AZ EMT will be requird to obtain it within 90 days.  Candidates not currently possessing AZ FF 1 and 2 (or equivalent) status will be required to obtain it within 18 months of initial employment. Applicants not hired may be placed on a ranked eligibility list for future consideration.