Hybrid Assistant Chief of EMS and Training Coordinator bei City of Johnston (IA)

About the Department

The Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire District is Hiring: Assistant Chief of EMS & Training Coordinator

Are you ready to take your fire service and EMS leadership skills to the next level? The Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire District is seeking an exceptional leader to serve as our Assistant Chief of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) & Training Coordinator. This is a rare opportunity to join the senior command team in one of Iowa’s most respected and progressive public safety agencies, where your expertise, vision, and leadership will directly shape the future of emergency response and firefighter training in a thriving, fast-growing metro area.

Position Duties

Why This Role is Exciting

This isn’t just another administrative post — it’s a mission-critical leadership position that blends operational command, strategic program development, and hands-on influence over both EMS excellence and fire service training programs. You’ll be the driving force behind our EMS operations and the architect of the training programs that prepare our personnel for everything from advanced life support calls to large-scale fire incidents and complex technical rescues.

What You’ll Do

As Assistant Chief of EMS, you will:

• Lead all EMS program operations (BLS & ALS) for the District.
• Ensure quality assurance, protocol compliance, and EMS licensure requirements.
• Oversee pharmaceuticals, supplies, and EMS budget management.
• Serve as the liaison with our Medical Director, state authorities, and partner agencies.

As Training Coordinator, you will:

• Design and implement cutting-edge training programs that meet or exceed Federal, State, and National standards.
• Oversee training in fire suppression, hazardous materials, incident command, rescue operations, and professional development.
• Collaborate with agencies across the state to expand and innovate our training curriculum.
• Manage the Training Division budget and resources while mentoring personnel.

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• 10 years of fire service experience.
• 5 years as a State/NREMT-certified Paramedic.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Administration, EMS, Emergency Management, Public Administration, or related field.
• Preferred: CFO, CTO, and/or CEMSO credentials.
• Possession of, or the ability to obtain within one year: Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, BLS Instructor, EMS Instructor, ACLS Instructor, Handtevy Instructor certifications.
• Valid Iowa driver’s license within 90 days of hire.
• Residency within 30 minutes of the Public Safety Building at 6373 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, within 12 months of hire.

Other Qualifications

Ideal Candidate

We’re looking for someone who is:

• A visionary leader with proven command presence.
• Skilled in crisis decision-making and personnel mentorship.
• Passionate about raising the standard for EMS and firefighting excellence.
• A collaborative communicator who builds strong relationships inside and outside the District.
• Ready to step up and make a lasting impact in a fast-paced, high-responsibility role.

About the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire District

Serving both Johnston and Grimes, Iowa, the Johnston-Grimes Metropolitan Fire District protects rapidly growing communities in the Des Moines metro. Our district is known for integrity, innovation, and outstanding service, equipped with advanced apparatus, modern facilities, and a highly trained staff dedicated to public safety.

Be the leader who shapes the future of EMS and fire service training in our District.
Apply today and seize the opportunity to lead, inspire, and protect.