Police Chief

Ritzville, WA
Ritzville Police Department

Position Summary:

The Police Chief plans, organizes, directs, and evaluates the activities of the Police Department under the direction of the Mayor. This position ensures that the protection of the life and property is carried out in a just and objective manner and is underpinned through community policing. To achieve this objective, the Chief directs law enforcement activities; oversees staff schedules; and directs patrol, traffic enforcement, code enforcement, emergency response planning, and in-service training. They also work seamlessly with other City Departments and adjoining jurisdictions, to include county and state agencies.

This position has managerial responsibility for the administration of the departmental budget and provides leadership in developing and implementing department sponsored programs and services. The Chief develops and maintains strong working relationships with elected officials, the public, the media, social service agencies, the court system, and other law enforcement agencies.

Essential Functions:

  • The Chief directly reports to an elected Mayor.
  • All police department employees report to the Chief.
  • The Chief is expected to develop and maintain positive relationships with all City employees to achieve common goals that best serve the residents of Ritzville.
  • This position requires both administrative and patrol experience.
  • The Chief works in the office, as well as on the street providing patrol services and conducting criminal investigations.
  • This position is FLSA exempt.
  • The Chief of Police must live within the City or Ritzville City limits or at minimum of 5 miles from the City of Ritzville City Limits.
  • The Chief of Police is required to be able to respond to emergency situations within 10 minutes.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a law enforcement related field and 10 years of law enforcement experience including a minimum of 5 years in police supervision as a Police Sergeant or higher rank.
  • Candidates that have been out of active law enforcement for more than 24 months will not be considered for this position.
  • Management experience at a police agency equal in size to Ritzville or larger is a bonus.
  • Any combination of education and experience which would provide the applicant with the desired skills, knowledge, and ability required to perform the job may be considered when assessing the candidate’s qualifications and suitability for this position.
  • Valid Washington State driver’s license with clean driving record free from serious or frequent violations.
  • Applicant must meet the requirements of RCW 43.101.095, Peace Officer Certification.
  • Successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation that includes a Polygraph, Psychological Evaluation, Medical Evaluation, Drug Testing.