Fire Chief

Fire Chief

The City of Onalaska is seeking to hire a Fire Chief. Under the direction of the Mayor, this position directs, sets goals and objectives, and oversees all department operations. This position holds the highest-level management position within the Fire Department and is ultimately responsible for the complete control, operation, and representation of the City's fire department and its employees.

Essential Job Functions include overseeing all activities of the department for adherence to established policies and work methods; planning, reviewing, and coordinating departmental activities with the Mayor, City Administrator, Department Heads, the Police and Fire Commission, and other appointed and elected officials; supervising the day-to-day activities of fire department officers and staff; performing or directing the performance of tasks related to fiscal, personnel, property, records management, and other administrative tasks; facilitating occupancy inspections and fire detection and prevention inspections within the response areas of the Onalaska Fire Department; developing and projecting a good public image of the department and its employees with the general public, other firefighter/EMS agencies, governmental officials, and the news media; monitoring the planning, organization, and conduct of activities related to the provision of emergency medical services and disaster management, and conduct of fire suppression activities, including readiness planning for man-made or natural disasters in the City of Onalaska and neighboring municipalities; and more.

Compensation and Benefits include a 2026 annual salary range of $107,786 (step 1) through $141,378 (step 11). Starting salary depending on qualifications. Eligible for annual wage advancement upon approval. The City offers competitive benefits to include health and dental insurance effective the first of the month following 60 days of employment. For health insurance, the most affordable area plan offered is the Quartz West Plan with premiums at $225.36 per month for a single plan or $554.72 per month for a family plan. There is no deductible or co-insurance amount for the health insurance plan. Dental insurance is through Delta Dental with premiums paid 100% by the City. The position qualifies for automatic enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System (pension plan) providing a lifetime payment once vested and upon eligible retirement. Additionally, the City offers voluntary benefits such as vision, flexible spending, life insurance, disability insurance, deferred compensation, pet insurance, critical illness, cancer, and accident insurance. Paid sick leave, holidays, and vacation. Access to an employee assistance program (EAP). The City of Onalaska is also a qualifying employer under the Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Federal Program.