Chief of Police

Elma is a welcoming town of 3,500 residents nestled in the Chehalis River Valley, midway between Washington’s
capital city of Olympia and the Pacific Coast. Known as the Gateway to Grays Harbor, Elma offers the best of both
worlds—country living with easy access to the I-5 corridor.

For generations, Elma has been the commercial hub of East Grays Harbor County, with deep roots in the agricultural
and timber industries that still contribute to the local economy. Today, Elma is one of the fastest-growing communities
in Grays Harbor County, drawing families, commuters, and retirees who value its small-town charm, safe
neighborhoods, and strong sense of community.

Public safety is a top priority for Elma’s residents and leaders. The City has consistently invested in its Police
Department and demonstrated strong community support for law enforcement. Elma citizens value their close
connection with the officers who serve them, and city leadership works in partnership with the department to ensure
officers have the tools and resources they need to succeed. The department now calls the newly remodeled Community
Safety and Service Building home — a beautiful, modern facility where the next Chief of Police can help shape the
department’s future. This culture of trust and cooperation makes Elma a truly police-friendly community where the next
Police Chief will be supported.Strong leadership and management skills with a relational style. Strategic planning and management change
skills. Strong understanding of community policing is desired.

Requirements:
Ability to effectively direct, coordinate and evaluate the activities of department personnel; to effectively supervise
subordinates to achieve a high level of service and productivity; to reason and react calmly and quickly in emergency
and life-threatening situations; to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing, to groups and individuals;
to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, elected officials, and the public.

High School graduation or a GED certificate and any combination of experience and education that provides the
required knowledge, skills and abilities which may include:
Possession of a Bachelor’s preferred from an accredited college or university in business or public administration,
criminology or related field; or equivalent experience with a minimum of five years’ experience in a state, county, or
municipal law enforcement agency including a minimum of three years’ experience at the rank of Sergeant or above.,
plus one of the following:

• Graduation from an accredited law enforcement academy in Washington State; or
• A passing score on the Washington State Equivalency examination; or
• Graduation from an accredited law enforcement academy in some other state (applicants in this category must
  pass the Washington State equivalency examination within twelve months of hire. Failure to pass this
  examination within the time limit could be grounds for termination.)

Candidates that have been out of active law enforcement for more than 24 months will not be considered.
Special Requirements:
Must be able to pass or prove the ability to pass a LEOFF II medical examination or a standard medical examination, as
specified by the employer or the State of Washington. Must possess a valid Washington State Driver’s License and have
a driving record acceptable to the City’s insurance carrier. Must pass a thorough background investigation, polygraph,
and psychological examination.
Compensation & Benefits:
The City of Elma is offering a salary range of $125,000 to $135,000 annually for this position dependent upon
experience and qualifications. Longevity is accrued at a rate equal to the bargaining unit with the most generous
percentages. Employees who meet the educational requirements receive 3% for the possession of 90 credits or
Associates of Arts Degree and an incentive increase of five percent (5%) in wages for the possession of a Bachelor
of Arts Degree. The benefits package includes full medical, dental, and vision insurance. The city makes a monthly
contribution of $50 ($600 annually) into a HRA VEBA account. All employees receive a $12,000 life insurance policy
at no cost. The position receives 80 hours of Executive Leave, as well as 12 paid holidays in accordance with the
official state calendar, as well as one floating holiday. Vacation time is accrued up to 360 hours per year and is accrued
based on longevity. Sick leave is accrued at eight hours per month, up to 960 hours. Upon retirement, employees
may cash out sick leave up to 320 hours or deposit proceeds into a deferred comp account or medical savings account.

The Chief of Police is a full-time, non-union, FLSA exempt position and is a member of the Law Enforcement Officers
and Fire Fighters Retirement System (LEOFF)