Chief of Police

City of Elkhart

CITY OF ELKHART : JOB DESCRIPTION
DEPARTMENT: Police Department
POSITION: Chief of Police
DIVISION: Administration
STATUS : Full- Time
CATEGORY : Salary, "Negotiable"
FLSA : Exempt
REPORTS TO : Mayor

JOB SUMMARY
Serves as the chief executive officer of the Police Department, responsible for the strategic leadership, administration, and overall performance of all departmental operations. The Chief of Police provides vision and direction to ensure effective, community-oriented policing; maintains the highest standards of professionalism and accountability; and leads organizational initiatives including accreditation, training, and data-driven decision-making to enhance public safety and trust.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide executive leadership and strategic direction for all departmental functions, including patrol, investigations, administration, and support services.
Lead and institutionalize a community policing philosophy, fostering strong partnerships with residents, businesses, and community organizations to proactively address public safety concerns.
Direct and oversee the department's pursuit and maintenance of accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), ensuring compliance with nationally recognized best practices and continuous improvement standards.
Maintain a modern, effective records management system, ensuring accuracy, transparency, compliance with legal requirements, and the use of data to inform operational decisions.
Evaluate and continuously improve the comprehensive training program that supports officer development, leadership succession, legal compliance, and evolving policing practices.
Oversee and ensure an effective, fair, and objective internal affairs function, including the timely investigation of complaints, consistent application of discipline, and development of corrective action recommendations. Promote a balanced accountability system that also recognizes and rewards exemplary performance, reinforcing professionalism, integrity, and high-quality service.
Oversee preparation and administration of the department budget, ensuring responsible fiscal management and alignment with strategic priorities.
Develop, implement, and enforce departmental policies, procedures, and standard operating guidelines consistent with federal, state, and local laws and best practices.
Direct organizational planning, including staffing, deployment strategies, and operational priorities, to optimize service delivery and efficiency.
Prepare and present reports, recommendations, and updates to the Board of Safety, Merit Commission, and City Council.
Promote a culture of accountability, professionalism, and ethical conduct throughout the department.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Evaluate departmental performance through data analysis, performance metrics, and outcome-based measures; implement improvements as needed.
Serve as the department's primary liaison with community groups, elected officials, and partner agencies at the local, regional, state, and federal levels.
Represent the department in professional organizations, conferences, and intergovernmental initiatives.
Lead public communication and transparency efforts, including public safety education and community engagement initiatives.
Identify and pursue grants and external funding opportunities to support departmental priorities, including training, technology, and accreditation.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience required; Master's degree preferred.
Law Enforcement Academy Graduate (Indiana or equivalent). (Civilians may be considered with exceptional related experience)
Progressive law enforcement experience with demonstrated leadership at the command staff level.
Demonstrated experience or strong familiarity with CALEA accreditation, community policing strategies, and training program development is strongly preferred.
Valid Indiana Driver's License required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Comprehensive knowledge of modern police administration, organizational leadership, and best practices in law enforcement.
Strong understanding of community-oriented policing and the ability to build trust and legitimacy within diverse communities.
Knowledge of accreditation standards, policy development, and risk management practices.
Proficiency in data-driven decision-making, records management systems, and performance analytics.
Ability to design, implement, and evaluate effective training programs and leadership development initiatives.
Strong financial management and budgeting skills.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and public presentation skills.
Ability to lead organizational change, manage complex operations, and build a cohesive leadership team.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, community stakeholders, and the public.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND VISUAL SKILLS

Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
Ability to analyze complex situations, interpret data, and make sound decisions.
Ability to attend meetings, presentations, training sessions, and community events.
Ability to operate standard office equipment and technology.
Ability to review reports, policies, budgets, and operational documents.
Ability to remain mentally alert and exercise sound judgment during emergency and crisis situations.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed in an office environment with frequent interaction with employees, elected officials, community members, and external agencies.
Position requires attendance at evening meetings, public events, emergency operations, and community functions.
May be required to respond during emergencies, critical incidents, or natural disasters.
Frequent travel throughout the City and occasional regional or statewide travel may be required.

POST OFFER TESTING REQUIREMENTS

The City of Elkhart is a Drug Free Workplace. Therefore, successfully passing a post offer drug screen is required (random drug testing may be conducted after employment).
Background checks producing acceptable BMV and criminal history reports required.

POLICY STATEMENT

The incumbent is required to possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the physical, mental, and visual skills described in this job description to perform the principal duties, responsibilities and essential job functions.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent. Principal duties and responsibilities are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job and other duties and responsibilities include those that are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of this job.
This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employee holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by the Mayor. All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.

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Vacancy posted 1 day ago

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