Derald currently serves as Deputy Chief in Emergency Services with Lincoln Fire Department. His career with the department began as a firefighter in 1972. Derald has served as a company officer on both engine and truck apparatus. In his current capacity he is one of six duty shift Deputy Chiefs. He is responsible for the management of 7 fire stations and approximately half of the 80 on duty personnel on the 24 hour duty shift. As a deputy chief Derald has oversight responsibility for several fire department committees.

Derald is a graduate of the Southeast Community College Fire Protection Program. He has attended numerous National Fire Academy outreach classes.