Chief of Police

City of Homer (AK)•Homer, AK

45d

About The Position

This position is not currently covered under the State of Alaska Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), however the City would be willing to reinstate and make this a PERS position, dependent on candidate preference. Requirements: Must meet Alaska Police Standards Council basic standards for police officers (13AAC 85.010) and police chiefs (AS 18.65.240, 280). All applicants will be asked to complete the Personal History Statement (Form F-3, from Alaska Police Standards Council) and submit the form to the HR Director at [email protected] no later than January 4, 2026. As a condition of employment, this position is subject to pre-employment substance abuse testing, a physical, a psychological test, polygraph testing, and a thorough background check (criminal history, verification of education and employment history). Must possess and maintain a valid Alaska driver's license. Police certifications and security clearances must be maintained for the duration of employment. GENERAL FUNCTIONS The Chief of Police supervises and oversees the daily operations of the Homer Police Department (HPD), which includes law enforcement, dispatch, and the jail facility. The function of the Police Department is to preserve order, enforce all ordinances and laws in the city, and preserve peace.

Requirements

Must meet Alaska Police Standards Council basic standards for police officers (13AAC 85.010) and police chiefs (AS 18.65.240, 280).
All applicants will be asked to complete the Personal History Statement (Form F-3, from Alaska Police Standards Council) and submit the form to the HR Director at [email protected] no later than January 4, 2026.
As a condition of employment, this position is subject to pre-employment substance abuse testing, a physical, a psychological test, polygraph testing, and a thorough background check (criminal history, verification of education and employment history).
Must possess and maintain a valid Alaska driver's license. Police certifications and security clearances must be maintained for the duration of employment.
Ten years of progressive police experience with at least five years at the rank of sergeant or above.
Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of police administration and management, policy development, human resources, risk management, and community relations.
Extensive knowledge of current case law, applicable laws of arrest, search and seizure, rules of evidence, collection and preservation of evidence, courtroom procedures, recognized public safety best practices, policies, and procedures, and legalities associated with the position.
Ability to proficiently use assigned firearms and other department issued equipment, and pass departmental qualifications.
Ability to handle sensitive and/or stressful situations with tact and discretion; ability to interact with the public with a calm demeanor; ability to maintain confidentiality
Ability to make quick decisions and exercise sound judgment.
Bachelor's degree, or equivalent in experience and education in police administration or related field.
Strong verbal, written, analytical, and interpersonal skills to establish and maintain a productive working relationship within the department, with other departments, the public, and other governmental agencies.
Ability to make decisions that positively resolve problems.
Ability to interpret and fairly / equitably enforce State statutes and Municipal ordinances.
Possess and maintain an Advanced Certificate from the Alaska Police Standards Council, or ability to obtain one within 14 months of hire. (Out of state certified officers must attend a recertification academy in Alaska).

Nice To Haves

Graduation from either the FBI National Academy, Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course, or Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command strongly desired at time of hire. If does meet this requirement, must complete within first year of employment.

Responsibilities

Develops policies and procedures governing activities of the Police Department.
Reviews department activities in relationship to changing city requirements (city codes, case law and police procedures / best practices) and prepares and presents plans for improvements to City Manager and City Council, if requested.
Responsible for recruitment, training, and discipline of department personnel, subject to provisions of the Personnel Regulations.
Maintains working relationships with other agencies, including: courts, corrections, the District Attorney's office, and other law enforcement agencies, and borough and state officials.
Coordinates local law enforcement activities with State and Federal agencies, as requested. Directs departmental activity in crime prevention, jail issues and general police duties.
Provides management direction in the enforcement of all city, state and federal laws and ordinances of the City of Homer.
Makes recommendations for upgrading city ordinances related to law enforcement.
Stays current with continuing education, professional public safety best practices and procedures. Additionally ensures all HPD personnel understanding and compliance with current laws. Ensures adequate training programs for police department personnel.
Develops annual departmental budget with the Finance Director and City Manager, based on best practices and department needs. Monitors and authorizes department expenditures in accordance with approved budget and authorized limits.
Receives and investigates complaints against department personnel, and takes appropriate action.
In limited circumstances when manpower shortages are being experienced, or call volume necessitates it, acts as a uniformed police officer in general duty police work.
Represents the City in matters regarding law enforcement. Makes public presentations, provides testimony, and regularly interfaces with the public
Develops policy and procedure for the police department to help ensure that areas of potential liability are limited.
Develops and participates in public relations efforts, such as assisting with community events and activities, and promotion of positive public relations.
Performs other activities as required by the department or as directed by the City Manager.