Larry A. Peterson joined the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department in 1984, after three years on the Jacksonville Port Authority Fire Department. Peterson began as a firefighter assigned to Station 5. Over the years he also worked as a firefighter at Stations 2, 9 and 49. Peterson remained a firefighter throughout his career until Mayor John Peyton promoted him to assistant management improvement officer in August 2003.

The mayor appointed Peterson chief of the Administrative Services Division in December 2003.

As chief of Administrative Services, Peterson spends much of his time overseeing the renovation, repair and construction of new fire stations. He's also in charge of all purchasing for the department. As a fireman, he counts the Triangle Tank Farm fire and the Stuart Petroleum fire among the most significant of his career.

Peterson received certifications in fire fighting in 1981 and in emergency medical technology in 1985 from Florida Community College at Jacksonville. In addition, he has completed numerous fire fighting and fire science courses and seminars throughout his career.

As chief of the Administrative Services Division, Peterson directs a staff of 17 employees.