Deputy Chief of Police

Description

Gardner is one of the fastest-growing communities in the region, yet we remain committed to the small-town values that make our city feel like home. Working here isn't just a job; it's a career with a high-performing, progressive organization. We value Integrity, Professionalism, and Stewardship , and we are looking for dedicated leaders to help us continue setting the bar for excellence in service delivery.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic leader to join the Police Department team. In this role, you will be a key driver of our mission to provide exceptional services that enrich the Gardner community.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Strategic Leadership: Assist in developing department-wide goals and objectives to enhance public safety and community trust.
• Operational Excellence: Provide effective management over critical divisions, ensuring best practices are integrated into daily operations.
• Community Partnership: Build and maintain strong relationships with residents, business owners, and city partners to ensure we meet diverse community needs.
• Administrative Oversight: Manage budgets and personnel with a focus on fiscal stewardship and professional accountability.

This is a professional police administrator position responsible for overseeing the daily management of the two divisions of the Gardner Police Department - Patrol Operations and Administrative Support Services. The functions performed in the operations division include patrol, drone, bike patrol, traffic/cvsa. The functions performed in the administration division include investigations, professional standards, records, animal control, code enforcement, the SRO program, community policing and property and evidence. The Deputy Chief of Police is responsible for providing administrative support to the Chief of Police to include assistance with policy development, program planning, budget development and management of all police functions. The Deputy Chief of Police will provide leadership and guidance to develop and implement specialized policing units including establishing policy, overseeing officer and supervisor selection, training and day-to-day management practices that support the Department's mission and values.

What We Offer

The City of Gardner provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support you and your family:

• Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees (available in select plans) and a robust Wellness Incentive Program.
• Retirement Security: Mandatory participation in KP&F providing a stable, defined-benefit pension.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.
• Community Perks: Swimming pool passes for employees and their immediate families.

Education, Certification, and Experience requirements:

Minimum qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Criminology or equivalent field, Masters Degree in an appropriate field is preferred; at least ten (10) ten years of service as a sworn law enforcement officer including at least three years of administrative and supervisory experience beyond first line supervisor.; graduation from a law enforcement command school (e.g. FBI National Academy, SMIP or SPI) or similar credential preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required, knowledge, skills and abilities. Requires possession of a valid driver's license and a good driving record. Must be Kansas C-Post Certified or able to gain certification and able to maintain a proficiency in firearms as required C-Post standards. Must successfully pass a polygraph exam, police background check, mental health screen, drug screen and physical exam prior to employment.


Ready to make an impact? We've made it easy to join our team:

Applicants wishing to be included in the first review will submit a formal application and resume to Human Resources no later than 4:00 PM on by 06-03-2026 utilizing the "Apply Online" portal at gardnerkansas.gov/work-for-the-city.

Stay Connected: Once submitted, you will receive updates regarding the hiring timeline and next steps.