Rosemount Fire Department Tests New Duty Crew Staffing Model to Improve Response Times
Photo description: Our first duty crew - Firefighters Ausmus, Kline, and McManus, pictured on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
Published: February 4, 2026.
ROSEMOUNT, MINNESOTA - The Rosemount Fire Department has launched a new staffing initiative to improve emergency response times and support its firefighters as call volumes continue to rise.
Sunday, February 1, marked the first official day of the department’s new Duty Crew Program, a first-of-its-kind model for Rosemount Fire. The program allows paid-on-call firefighters to schedule four-hour shifts at the fire station, ensuring crews are immediately available to respond to emergencies rather than traveling from home when a call comes in.
Department officials say the change is a direct response to significant growth in emergency activity. In 2025, the department experienced a 27% increase in call volume, placing additional demands on paid-on-call firefighters who are frequently required to leave their families, primary jobs, or personal commitments with little notice.
Under the Duty Crew model, firefighters can plan ahead by signing up for scheduled shifts, creating more predictability while maintaining readiness. The department says this approach improves firefighters' work-life balance while strengthening operational coverage for the community.
“Having firefighters already on-site means engines and crews can get on the road faster,” the department noted. “When seconds matter, that time savings can make a real difference in emergencies.”
Officials emphasized that the program is being closely evaluated to maintain high service levels amid Rosemount’s continued growth. By supplementing the traditional paid-on-call system with scheduled duty crews, the department hopes to enhance reliability without compromising its volunteer-based structure.
The department also announced it is actively recruiting new paid-on-call firefighters. Applications are currently being accepted through March 1, 2026. Interested residents can learn more about the department at rosemountmn.gov/fire and apply online at rosemountmn.gov/jobs.
Fire officials say the Duty Crew Program reflects a broader commitment to both firefighter support and public safety, ensuring Rosemount residents continue to receive timely and effective emergency response as the city grows.
Written by: Will Wight
Image Provided by: City of Rosemount
