Deputy Fire Chief Administration and Training

Job description

Why work for the Town of Canmore? You can take great pride in our collaborative organization, its positive work culture and our talented and skilled people who genuinely care about our community and each other, and who accomplish outstanding work each and every day. As one of the key leaders of the Town of Canmore Fire Rescue (CFR) service, you are critical for inspiring and managing the hearts and minds of a dedicated, motivated, efficient and effective team who plays its part in meeting Council’s vision for an authentic and resilient community that is vibrant, livable, and diverse, and where everyone can thrive. Position Overview: Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Deputy Chief Administration & Training (DCAT) is responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating, and managing departmental administrative functions, training programs, firefighter competency management, and operational readiness activities while assisting with emergency response operations. Administrative responsibilities include leading and coordinating departmental administrative functions including scheduling and payroll approval functions, records management, documentation control, policy administration, accreditation requirements, regulatory compliance, training records, workforce scheduling support, department reporting, data management, and continuous improvement initiatives. Working collaboratively with internal departments, the DCAT supports recruitment, onboarding, employee operational and leadership development, performance management activities, and operational readiness initiatives. The DCAT ensures administrative systems effectively support service delivery and firefighter preparedness and resilience. Training responsibilities include the development and maintenance of operational training matrices, firefighter certification and competency tracking, organization of training schedules and skill development timelines, coordination of training resources, and ensuring effective assessment of technical and operational competencies. The DCAT coordinates and/or delegates the coordination and delivery of operational training to qualified CFR members and external training providers. The DCAT responds, as required, to provide leadership or assume direct command, during firefighting activities, rescue calls, and other emergency incidents. Hours will include work outside regular business hours. The DCAT is also available on a consultative basis to Captains when off duty. The DCAT adheres to recognized ethical and professional standards while following Town of Canmore policies and applicable municipal, provincial, and federal legislation. This position is not within the scope of International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 4705 but coordinates activities of, and provides direction to, CFR staff who are within the scope of IAFF Local 4705. Core Accountabilities: Program Leadership and Strategy • Lead the implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of training and administrative programs that support operational readiness and organizational effectiveness. • Establish and maintain administrative processes, training standards, performance expectations, and documentation systems aligned with departmental objectives and regulatory requirements. • Monitor program performance, evaluate outcomes, and recommend improvements that support operational excellence and continuous learning. • Provide advice and recommendations to leadership on training requirements, workforce development, departmental policies, and administrative practices. • Ensure compliance with applicable legislation, standards, policies, and operational guidelines. Training, Competency and Operational Readiness • Develop and maintain training matrices, competency tracking systems, and individual development plans for all firefighters. • Plan, coordinate, deliver, and evaluate training programs, practical exercises, and professional development activities to support operational readiness across all emergency response functions. • Coordinate firefighter certifications, qualifications, recertifications, credentialing, and competency assessments to ensure compliance with organizational, legislative, and professional standards. • Maintain accurate training records and documentation that demonstrate firefighter competency, regulatory compliance, and organizational readiness. • Ensure training programs reflect NFPA standards, industry best practices, legislative requirements, and evolving operational needs. • Coordinate succession planning, leadership development, onboarding, and orientation programs to support workforce sustainability and growth. Administration and Organizational Support • Lead workforce scheduling, staffing coordination, payroll administration, and related administrative processes to support effective service delivery. • Develop, maintain, and administer departmental policies, procedures, operational guidelines, forms, and documentation standards. • Maintain departmental records management systems, databases, and information systems to ensure the accuracy, security, retention, and accessibility of operational and training information. • Prepare departmental reports, statistical summaries, operational documentation, and other administrative records to support decision-making and compliance requirements. • Support recruitment, onboarding, promotional processes, and employee development initiatives. • Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance administrative efficiency, information management, and operational effectiveness. Emergency Management and Incident Support • Provide leadership during emergency incidents, including incident command or command staff roles • Support post-incident reviews and integrate lessons identified into training and safety programs • Ensure integration between training, safety practices, and operational response requirements • Provide consultative support to operational leaders on training and safety matters Interest Holder Engagement and Organizational Collaboration • Collaborate with internal departments and external agencies on training, safety, and emergency management initiatives • Act as a representative on health and safety committees and cross-functional working groups • Build relationships with regulatory bodies, partner agencies, and training providers • Deliver internal and external training, education, and awareness programs on safety and operational practices Operational Leadership and Team Development • Lead, mentor, and develop staff through coaching, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities • Foster a culture of safety, learning, accountability, and continuous improvement • Promote inclusion, respect, and alignment with organizational values and priorities • Support workforce resilience, including participation in mental health initiatives and supports Health and Safety • Fulfill the Supervisor responsibilities under the Town's Health & Safety Directive • Ensure worker safety, training, and proper equipment • Promote compliance with WCB, OHS, and other applicable legislation • Identify and communicate hazards, investigate incidents and unsafe conditions, and implement corrective actions and controls • Communicate clearly, respectfully, and effectively with staff, leadership, contractors, and the public • Lead regular team meetings on operations, safety, and continuous improvement • Prepare clear written reports and documentation • Share operational information in a timely manner Key Competencies • Takes initiative to deliver timely, effective, and appropriate service that meets the needs of clients and interest holders. Anticipates needs, responds proactively, and follows through on commitments to ensure a high standard of service. Demonstrates a respectful, solution-oriented approach, building trust and positive relationships • Applies self-awareness and emotional regulation to remain effective and composed in a variety of situations, recognizing and responding appropriately to the emotions of self and others, fostering positive relationships and a respectful, supportive environment • Exemplifies a strong commitment to continuous learning and professional growth by actively seeking opportunities to build knowledge, skills, and competencies. Reflects on both successes and setbacks to inform future actions, demonstrating adaptability and resilience. Fosters a learning environment where both self and others are open and empowered to grow through experience, feedback, and reflection • Maintains a forward-looking perspective by aligning actions and decisions with organizational values, mission, and long-term goals. Anticipates future trends, opportunities, and challenges, and integrates this insight into planning and decision-making. Balances short-term priorities with a clear focus on sustainable outcomes, ensuring initiatives and efforts contribute to the broader strategic direction of the organization • Establishes objectives which are specific, clearly communicated, measurable, challenging but realistically achievable, and time targeted • Representing the organization to outsiders; participating in civic activities as the organization`s representative, presenting the organization`s position in difficult, issue-related areas and providing information to others/outside associations that enhances the organization`s profile in the community • Champions innovation and supports organizational changes that enhance effectiveness and efficiency. Leads and implements change management practices with intention and clarity, while guiding and supporting others to adapt successfully and sustain new ways of working • Exercises discernment by choosing actions that are aligned with organizational purpose and values, considering impacts across the whole system, and making courageous, well-reasoned decisions in the absence of clear precedent or detailed guidance • Consistently demonstrates a high level of accountability for health and safety by actively identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in the workplace. Adheres to all applicable legislation, policies, and safe work practices, ensuring tasks are performed in a manner that protects self and others. Remains vigilant to changing conditions that may compromise safety and takes appropriate action. Commits to ongoing learning and continuous improvement of health and safety knowledge, skills, and practices to support a safe work environment • Demonstrates integrity through consistent, competent performance, ethical decision-making, and clear, values-based communication that reflects what is best about the organization Education, Experience & Certifications Required • Post-secondary education in emergency management, public safety, fire prevention, or a related field • Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fire services, emergency management, or a related field • Minimum of 5 years experience in a leadership and/or instructor role, including responsibility for program delivery or operational oversight • NFPA 1001 (Firefighter I & II), NFPA 1021 (Officer I & II), NFPA 1041 (Instructor I & II), NFPA 1521 (Incident Safety Officer) • ICS 300 and operational command training (e.g., Blue Card) • Strong knowledge of OH&S legislation and fire service safety standards • Demonstrated experience in training program development, competency assessment, and safety management • Experience facilitating training, presentations, or public education initiatives • Strong oral and written communication in English • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications to support reporting, planning, and communication • Practiced and effective organizational habits for a rapidly changing environment • Valid Alberta Driver’s License Class 5 with Q endorsement Preferred/Asset • Experience in administering payroll and scheduling software • Alberta Safety Codes Council Safety Codes Officer (Fire Group A) • Incident Command System (ICS 400) certification or willingness to obtain • Mental health training for first responders (e.g., R2MR, Working Mind, Before Operational Stress, Trauma Informed Leadership) • Leadership certifications (e.g., Royal Roads, JIBC, Lakeland College, Dalhousie, or equivalent) • Emergency medical response certification (e.g., EMR, PCP, ACP) • Experience in municipal government or multi-agency emergency response environments • Demonstrated experience leading cross-departmental initiatives or community-based programs Salary & Benefits: • This is a full-time supervisory and coordinator position with an annual salary ranging from $117,335.40 to $127,108.80 commensurate with skills, experience, and organizational alignment. • This is a full -time permanent position • Competitive benefits package, & health spending account • Generous RRSP matching plan • Personal development & learning opportunities • Positive work culture • Work-Life Balance Closing Date for Applications: This posting will remain open until September 27th, 2026. How to Apply: To apply, please combine your cover letter and resume into a single document (PDF or Word) and click on the "APPLY NOW" link below. To help us learn more about you, in your cover letter please clearly detail the following: 1. Why you want to work with us as the Deputy Fire Chief Administration & Training. How will it benefit you to be in this role? 2. What values, attitude, strengths and skills you will bring to this role to benefit our team and community? 3. What you know about Canmore? 4. What your level of familiarity and/or experience is with the programs and services offered by the Town of Canmore’s Fire Rescue service? Prior to beginning work, the successful candidate will be required to submit all required certifications and documentation, including driver`s abstract and records checks. The Town of Canmore wishes to express our appreciation to all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. However, only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. The Town of Canmore is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful workplace. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and make employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, family status, ancestry, place of origin, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. We believe diversity strengthens our organization, and we encourage applications from all qualified individuals. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence,