Police Chief

City of Hopkinsville • Hopkinsville, KY

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Police Chief directs all operations of the Hopkinsville Police Department and the Hopkinsville/Christian County Emergency Communications Center. The Chief forecasts annual and long-term funding needs for a budget exceeding $12 million and leads short- and long-range planning for all department functions. Key responsibilities include supervising more than 70 police officers, 20 emergency dispatchers, and 20 support staff; establishing policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and organizational structures consistent with applicable guidelines and restrictions; and ensuring community-oriented policing services are provided at every level.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Twelve years’ law enforcement experience including five years’ supervisory experience (with two years of experience as a Police Captain or equivalent).
• Graduate from the FBI National Academy, the Southern Police Institute, or other similar command-level training program.
• Graduate from the Kentucky Law Enforcement Academy or equivalent that is recognized by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council.
• Successfully complete the City of Hopkinsville Firearms Certification Program.
• Complete 40 hours of KLEC-approved continuing education annually.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator license.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s Degree in criminal justice management or related field preferred.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• College-level courses in management, business, or criminology.
• Computer skills and use of prescribed software programs.
• Ability to quickly assess any situation.

Responsibilities

• Maintain all Patrol Officer qualifications and abilities required by Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC), City of Hopkinsville, and City of Hopkinsville Police Department.
• Possess thorough knowledge of modern policing principles, practices, and techniques of crime, accident investigation, and police administration.
• Conduct internal investigations of employees in a fair and equitable manner.
• Perform well under stress.
• Command officers and plan, assign, and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to achieve full performance and establish or maintain high morale.
• Decision making and planning skills to identify equipment, manpower and budget requirements to accomplish crime prevention and crime resolution.
• Ability to enforce law, rules, and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially when dealing with the general public.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Management skill to recommend and administer discipline of civilian or sworn employees.
• Professional attitude when reacting to stressful situations concerning the public.
• Public speaking ability to ensure general public is cognizant of the department’s capabilities and limitations is important.
• Diplomatic and courteous when dealing with employees, supervisors, citizens or suspects.
• Physically capable of subduing and placing into custody anyone violating the law or wanted by law enforcement agencies.
• Communicate clearly and comprehend communication of others.
• Maintain credibility and integrity as a senior-level manager and instill same in subordinates.
• Monitor, evaluate, and recommend department changes to respond to community needs.
• Total knowledge of city geographic characteristics, road locations, and interior layout of major buildings is necessary.
• Complete knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local law as well as department policies and procedures.
• Work with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies by requesting their assistance on investigations or assisting in their investigations whenever possible.
• Carry out assigned programs and projects assigned by the Mayor or City Council.
• Ability to use standard communication equipment such as telephone and wireless radio in a courteous and professional manner.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Benefits

• health, dental, vision, & life insurance.
• 15 vacation days, 12 sick days, and 8 floating holidays per year.
• Federal student loan repayment program available for eligible employees.
• Certified KY Police credentialing receives an additional $4,300 annual state stipend.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED