Authorization to Hire a Deputy Fire Chief of Training 

The purpose of this case is to request the City Council's authorization to hire a Deputy Fire Chief of Training.

Background: As City Council will recall, this recruitment was discussed during the October 14, 2025 work session. At that time, it was stated that the operational structure of the Fire Department divides responsibilities between two positions: the Administrative Captain of Logistics (now referred to as the Deputy Fire Chief of Operations and Logistics) and the Assistant Chief of Operations and Training.  With the continued increase in call volume, which has shown double-digit percentage growth in recent years, the department faces escalating demands across multiple areas. This growth impacts not only operational response but also training requirements at the duty crew level, department-wide, and for individual staff development. Given the ongoing strain and the evolving needs of the department, it is evident that aligning operational and logistical responsibilities under a single position will create greater efficiency and clarity in leadership roles. Proposal Overview: Staff proposes reorganizing the Fire Department staff structure to merge operational and logistical duties under one position, while separating training into its own dedicated role. This restructuring will allow for clearer lines of responsibility, reduce overlap, and improve overall departmental effectiveness. Key Changes: Create a Deputy Chief of Operations & Logistics position (eliminating the Administrative Captain of Logistics position) to oversee both operational and logistical duties which will handle the day-to-day operational aspects of firefighting activities, including the strategic deployment of personnel, equipment, and resources during incidents, while also managing the logistics of maintaining and acquiring necessary supplies to support fire operations effectively.  Create a Deputy Chief of Training position (eliminating the Assistant Chief of Operations and Training position) responsible for coordinating and developing fire service and EMS initial orientation and training, continuing education, staff development, on-duty training, officer development and credentialing of firefighter personnel. The reassignment of duties will lead to an adjustment in pay rates to reflect the change in responsibilities of both positions. This reorganization not only clarifies roles but also positions the department for continued growth and success.  

The above-mentioned Fire Department restructure was approved, and a recruitment was conducted for the Deputy Fire Chief of Training. Staff completed the necessary background checks and is recommending that Mr. Chad Mueller be hired as a full-time Deputy Fire Chief of Training.   With the City Council's authorization, Mr. Chad Mueller will start as the City's new Deputy Fire Chief of Training on or near February 9, 2026.  Mr. Mueller, as with all City non-union employees, will serve a one-year probationary period and will be subject to the terms of the City's Personnel Policy.

The Deputy Chief of Training is a full-time responder responsible for coordinating and developing the Fire Department’s training and professional development programs. This includes the design, delivery, and evaluation of all fire service and emergency medical services (EMS) orientation, continuing education, staff development, on-duty training, and credentialing for department personnel.  Key areas of responsibility include firefighter recruitment, the Field Training Officer program, the formal fire academy process, and officer development initiatives. Reporting to the Deputy Chief of Operations & Logistics, this position ensures all personnel meet or exceed required training standards through comprehensive monthly, quarterly, and annual training cycles that align with state and national certification requirements.

Motion to hire Mr. Chad Mueller as a full-time Deputy Fire Chief of Training, effective on or near February 9, 2026, at $48.192 per hour, which is step 2 of the 2026 wage scale.