Chief of Police
A national search is underway to attract a collaborative, principled, and forward-thinking police executive to serve as the next Chief of Police for the City of Tukwila, Washington. Located immediately south of Seattle, Tukwila is a welcoming and culturally diverse community of just over 23,000 residents. As a major regional center for employment, commerce, transportation, and recreation, the city has more than 40,000 jobs and a daytime population of approximately 150,000, creating public safety demands more commonly associated with a much larger urban city.
The Chief will oversee a full-service department with a $29.5 million budget and authorized staffing of 77 commissioned officers and 23 professional staff. Key priorities include strengthening organizational culture and accountability, aligning staffing and resources with service demands, advancing contemporary community policing, developing the workforce, and maintaining effective and responsive public safety services.
The successful candidate will be a visible, approachable, and authentic leader who understands the complexities of serving a highly diverse community. The ideal Chief will communicate openly, establish clear expectations, empower and develop employees, and lead with integrity, emotional intelligence, and sound judgment. This executive will embrace data-informed decision-making and thoughtful innovation while maintaining strong operational credibility and a firm commitment to public safety.
The Chief will collaborate with the Mayor, City Council, executive leadership, labor representatives, community stakeholders, and regional partners to strengthen public trust and organizational performance. The Chief will serve as a trusted advisor to City leadership and provide calm, decisive leadership during critical incidents and organizational change.
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree and twelve years of policing experience, including at least three years in a command-level position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A master’s degree is preferred. Candidates must possess, or be able to obtain, Washington State peace officer certification within six months of employment.
The City offers a competitive salary range of $247,308–$274,224 annually, depending on qualifications and experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package. The first review of applications will take place on September 10, 2026. Candidates are encouraged to apply early by submitting a compelling cover letter, comprehensive résumé, and list of professional references to [email protected]. The position will remain open until September 18, 2026. Brochure can be viewed at https://publicsectorsearch.com/recruitments/tukwila-wa/
Inquiries are encouraged. Please contact:
Gary Peterson (Chief of Police, Ret.)
Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc.
916-789-9990 (office)
916-622-5323 (mobile)
