Police Chief - City of Santa Maria, California
The City of Santa Maria, located in the California central coast region between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo, is a 23 square mile growing and developing community known for its agriculture, affordable living, and local and regional employment and recreation. As the largest city in the County of Santa Barbara, near Vandenberg Space Force Base, conveniently adjacent to U.S. Highway 101, and served by the local Santa Maria Public Airport, Santa Maria has a diverse population of approximately 110,000 residents (median age of 29) and is a regional hub of commerce, industry, farming, and housing. The city is rapidly attracting new residents, businesses, and visitors, and downtown revitalization is underway.
The Santa Maria Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency composed of 140 sworn peace officers and 56 professional civilian staff. The Department is led by the Police Chief, who is supported by three Police Commanders, each of whom oversee one of the department’s three divisions, Administration, Operations, and Support.
The City of Santa Maria is seeking an experienced leader to guide its Police Department. The new Chief will lead a department that is well thought of and enjoys strong community support. The Chief is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the department and being up to date on law enforcement best practices.
Candidates must have significant years of leadership and management experience to perform the job effectively, and graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in public safety, law, public administration, business, or related field; and/or equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job. Master’s degree in public administration, business, Homeland Security, administration of justice organizational leadership or related field desirable. Possession of, or eligibility for a California POST Management Certificate a requirement.
The annual salary range is $227,114 to $340,672 DOQE. The City provides an outstanding benefit package.
Filing deadline: January 12, 2025
Resumes acknowledged within two business days.
