Chief of Police

JOB DUTIES
This role involves the comprehensive leadership and management of the Police Department. It includes planning, coordinating, supervising, and evaluating all departmental operations, as well as developing and implementing policies and programs that align with city goals. The position also entails reviewing departmental performance, addressing deficiencies, and overseeing the preparation and implementation of the annual budget, including equipment planning and expenditure control.

Furthermore, the Chief is responsible for personnel training and development, directing activities at emergency incidents and major crime scenes, and participating in labor negotiations and disciplinary matters. They prepare reports for city leadership, plan and supervise operational implementations, and assign personnel and equipment. The role also involves engaging with various officials and the public, staying current with law enforcement trends, representing the department at various meetings, and ensuring public safety and law enforcement.

IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong commitment to integrity and accountability, upholding ethical standards and cultivating trust both within the department and the broader community. Effective communication skills are essential for engaging confidently with officers, city officials, and members of the public, particularly in high-pressure situations. The ideal candidate should have the ability to make sound and timely decisions based on legal principles as required. Additionally, the candidate must have a proven record of community engagement and transparency.

They will have demonstrated the ability to be strategic thinking, setting a clear vision for the department’s future while staying adaptable to changing laws, technologies, and public expectations. The ideal candidate will have strong emotional intelligence and empathy for managing personnel, maintaining morale, and navigating sensitive issues. Operational and tactical competence is necessary to ensure effective response to crises, while a collaborative, team-building leadership style promotes cohesion, professional development, and interagency cooperation.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
♦ Bachelor’s degree in police science, law enforcement, criminal justice, public administration or closely related field. Police executive level experience and completion of one or more of the following courses will satisfy the education requirement: Command College, FBI National Academy, Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command, FBI LEEDA Trilogy, Leadership-The West Point Model.
♦ Ten (10) years of experience in police work, with at least three (3) years with the rank of lieutenant or equivalent officer level in supervisory and management responsibilities.
♦ Must be a Washington State Certified Peace Officer or out of state equivalent and be able to obtain a Washington State Certification within six months of hire.
♦ Must have a valid Washington State drivers license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.
♦ Must pass a complete background investigation which includes a polygraph examination, psychological examination, medical examination, drug testing and credit check.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Annual Salary: $110,000 - $125,000, D.O.E.

♦ Quality health, vision, and dental insurance
♦ Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
♦ Accrued Sick Leave
♦ Washington State Department of Retirement – LEOFF II
♦ 457 Deferred Compensation
♦ Basic Life Insurance
♦ Assigned Take-home Vehicle
♦ Up to 13.33 hours of vacation monthly/up to 160 hours per year
♦ 12 paid Fixed Holidays and 2 Flexible Holidays