Job Description

This position is open to internal applicants only (apply by March 4, 2024).

As a member of the city\'s executive team, the Police Chief will work closely with the City Manager, elected officials, and department heads. The Police Chief operates with significant autonomy while still operating under the overarching guidance of the Mayor, fostering a close collaborative relationship as outlined in the city charter.

Columbia Heights is searching for their next Police Chief to perform highly responsible administrative, supervisory, and technical police work in the direction of all employees, functions, and operations of the Police Department. Work involves responsibility for the control and coordination of all police activities, ensuring that public order is maintained throughout the city, that laws and ordinances are enforced, and that all necessary measures are taken to prevent crime and protect lives and property. Work includes the planning of activities and the selection, training, assignment, supervision, and discipline of all departmental personnel. Responsibilities of the position include:

• Plans, directs, and coordinates all operations and activities of the police department.
• Plans, develops, modifies, implements, and evaluates programs of police services.
• Develops and implements procedures, policies, rules, and regulations for all departmental field, investigative, records and general police office work.
• Prepares or directs the preparation of periodic or special reports on department activities and operations.
• Oversees the assignment, training, supervision, and evaluation of police department personnel.
• Meets with citizens, civic groups, school district personnel, and business owners concerning complaints, activities of the department, and other matters of public interest and importance.
• Reviews and ensures follow-up on all complaints and other matters of public interest related to law enforcement.
• Prepares and recommends the annual budget for all functions within the police department and approves expenditures in accordance with city policies and procedures.
• Responds, on or off duty, to major incidents and emergencies as deemed appropriate.
• Coordinates with the Human Resources Director and City Manager on the recruitment, selection, and promotion of sworn police department personnel.
• Meets with the Mayor and City Council as required; coordinates department activities with other city departments and other agencies.
• Performs other work as required.

Candidates should possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of operations, services, and activities of the police department.
• Thorough knowledge of department policies, rules, and regulations, and of controlling laws, ordinances, and court decisions.
• Thorough knowledge of the geography of the City and local area and of resources available for disaster and other emergencies.
• Considerable knowledge of the use of police records and their application to police administration, planning, and problem solving.
• Considerable knowledge of the organization and function of county, state, and federal enforcement, regulatory, and licensing agencies as they relate to police work.
• Ability to plan, schedule, supervise, and review the work and performance of subordinates in a manner conducive to full performance and high morale.
• Ability to prepare and/or direct the preparation of comprehensive reports, budgets, departmental materials, correspondence, and programs of police service.
• Ability to express ideas clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public and enforcement officials, other employees, and the general public.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $127,774 to $150,322 depending on education and experience, plus Columbia Heights\' outstanding benefits package.

Desired Qualifications

Qualified candidates should possess a bachelor\'s degree in Police Science, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field, plus 10 years of law enforcement experience, including five years at a supervisory level in an agency of 12 or more sworn officers. Candidates who have successfully completed a recognized professional leadership program such as the FBI National Academy, Southern Police Institute, or Northwestern Staff and Command, coupled with a minimum of two years of experience at a command level within a law enforcement agency comprising twelve or more sworn officers, will distinguish themselves among other candidates. Candidates should possess a valid driver\'s license with a satisfactory driving record and possess a P.O.S.T. license or be eligible to be licensed at time of appointment.

Special Instructions

Internal candidates should apply no later than March 4, 2024, to be considered for the position.

For more information, contact Patty Heminover at or 651-968-7841.

Columbia Heights is an equal opportunity employer (EOE).

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