

PORT WASHINGTON
FIRE
CAREER DEPUTY CHIEF POSITION
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The City of Port Washington is accepting applications for the position of Deputy Fire Chief. Port Washington, population 12,855, is nestled on the Wisconsin shore of Lake Michigan, just north of Milwaukee. Our combination department runs approximately 1,800 calls for service per year, providing fire protection and emergency medical care.
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The Port Washington Fire Department has provided pre-hospital emergency care and fire protection since 1852. As a 911-based service, we deliver advanced life support to the citizens of Port Washington and provide ALS intercepts for most of northern Ozaukee County. The Port Washington Fire Department maintains active Rescue Task Force, Technical/Low Angle Rescue, Surface Water Rescue and Dive teams. The department is currently in the planning stages of developing a state-of-the-art public safety building and has successfully completed the specifications for both a new engine and ladder truck. Our firefighting apparatus are equipped with top-of-the-line equipment, including MSA G1 SCBA and TNT Rescue Tools. Ambulances include Stryker Power-LOAD stretchers, LIFEPAK 35 cardiac monitors, Butterfly ultrasound, Sapphire infusion pumps, and McGrath video laryngoscopes. Utilizing progressive, evidence-based protocols, our Paramedics are afforded the ability to practice at the top of their license.
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Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Deputy Chief will oversee both training and risk reduction initiatives for the department. They will plan, organize, and coordinate fire, EMS, and special team training to meet state and national compliance standards, while also managing an all-hazards community risk reduction program focused on fire prevention and education. In addition, the Deputy Chief will supervise and conduct inspections of multi-family, commercial, and industrial structures to ensure adherence to local, state, and national fire codes, collaborating with architects, contractors, and other partners to review building plans and address fire safety concerns. They will also oversee fire investigations to determine causes and contributing factors, maintaining accurate records and preparing detailed reports to support regulatory compliance, legal proceedings, and accreditation efforts. This role involves close collaboration with a dedicated team of part-time and full-time personnel in a supportive, close-knit environment.
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​Ideal candidates are enthusiastic, energetic, and committed to helping others and the organization succeed. They must hold Wisconsin Firefighter II, Driver/Operator, Fire Officer II, Emergency Services Instructor II, and EMT-Basic (or a reciprocal IFSAC/NREMT) certifications. Applicants should have ten or more years of experience in fire or emergency medical services, with a proven track record of progressive responsibility and leadership development. Certification as a Paramedic is preferred. A valid driver's license is required. Throughout the application process, candidates will participate in an assessment center evaluation, oral interviews, drug screening, a physical examination, and a background check.
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The positions offer a starting salary of $92,500 based on a 40-hour work week, along with a highly competitive benefits package. The Deputy Chief will also be expected to participate in an on-call/duty chief rotation. Benefits include enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System, comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance, as well as paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation. The City of Port Washington is an equal-opportunity employer.
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​Please complete the application by following the link below. All applications should be accompanied by a cover letter, resume, and a copy of applicable certifications. Any questions can be answered by calling Fire Chief Joe DeBoer at (262) 284-2891 during business hours or by email at jdeboer@portwashingtonwi.gov.
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Application Deadline: March 14th, 2025 @ 5:00pm​