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NOTIFICATION OF ACTION TAKEN BY THE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES APPROVING ONE NEW CLASSIFICATION: FIRE DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER
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RECOMMENDATION
This item is informational only. No action is necessary.
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Summary
This report is to inform the Civil Service Commission of action taken by the Director of Human Resources approving the new classification specification Fire Department Administrative Manager. Per Rule IV, section 5(b) the Director of Human Resources shall approve all new or amended class specifications and file with the Secretary of the Commission.
The classification specification stems from the complex nature of the fire department operations, where effective management requires a deep understanding of unique fire department processes, protocols, and regulations. The Fire Department Administrative Manager role addresses this by attracting individuals with relevant fire department experience, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of Stockton Fire Department’s unique requirements and challenges. This includes familiarity with specialized tools and technology, and understanding of firefighter needs (scheduling, training, and wellness), proficiency in compliance and regulations, and alignment with the organization’s culture, values, and mission.
DISCUSSION
Background
Pursuant to Stockton City Charter, Section 2537 Classified Service, “As the legislative body of the City, the Council may provide for the placing of any of the other employees of the City of Stockton, not mentioned or specified anywhere in this act, under civil service and under the jurisdiction of the Civil Service Commission. . . .”
Human Resources and the Fire Department brought to the May 14, 2024, City Council meeting, a resolution creating one new classified position. In the same resolution, Council was provided the salary range for the position of Fire Department Administrative Manager in accordance with Stockton Municipal Code section 2.36.040. The position was approved by unanimous vote of the Council via Resolution 2024-05-14-1210.
The approved classification specification was signed by the Director of Human Resources on May 15, 2024, and is included in this report (Attachment A).
Present Situation
Currently, Stockton Fire Department’s administrative responsibilities rely on the versatile Program Manager classification, which has proven too broad to address the specific expertise of fire operations. Creating the Fire Department Administrative Manager position offers a cost-effective alternative to assigning additional Fire Captains or Battalion Chiefs to administrative duties and investing extensive time in developing the necessary administrative skills. Long-tenured suppression personnel excel in firefighting techniques, tactical decision-making, and leadership but typically lack specialized administrative skills. Program Managers bring expertise in administrative functions such as budgeting, human resources management, strategic planning, and organizational development. The Fire Department Administrative Manager position bridges the gap between long-tenured suppression personnel and standard Program Managers.
AUTHORITY
Rule IV, section 4(a) of the Civil Service Rules and Regulations for Miscellaneous Employees provides the Director of Human Resources the authority, on behalf of the Civil Service Commission, to maintain and approve class specifications making up the Classification Plan.
Per Rule IV, section 5(b) the Director of Human Resources shall approve all new or amended class specifications and file with the Secretary of the Commission.
Attachment A - Official Class Spec (signed) Fire Department Administrative Manager