Lieutenant

California State University, Sacramento; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 148,807 - 154,387; Full time

Job summary

California State University, Sacramento seeks a Lieutenant to lead the Police Department's 24/7 patrol and investigations operations, including dispatch and emergency response. The role acts as Incident Commander for major incidents and Watch Commander, with potential to assume higher duties as needed.

Requirements include a Bachelor’s degree, 10 years as a California peace officer, POST certificates, and prior Sergeant-level experience. Background check required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent from an accredited university/college.
• Minimum 10 years employment as a paid California peace officer.
• California POST academy certificates (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, Supervisory).
• Currently employed or previously employed as a Sergeant or higher with at least 3 years at Sergeant rank.

Responsibilities

• Lead, direct, and manage the Department’s 24/7 sworn patrol/investigation operations, dispatch, and emergency response functions.
• Act as Incident Commander for major incidents and Watch Commander; may assume Chief or Deputy Chief duties when needed.
• Oversee patrol activities, investigations, property/evidence management, fleet management, and personnel oversight.
• Provide proactive community policing, special event planning, and effective leadership across a diverse workforce.

Skills

Law enforcement knowledge

Policy interpretation

Leadership

Staff supervision

Verbal and written communication

Inclusive environment

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Deputy Chief of Police, the Lieutenant serves as third-in-command of the Sacramento State Police Department. The Lieutenant leads, directs, and manages the Department’s 24/7 sworn patrol/investigation operations, dispatch, and emergency response functions. Responsibilities include proactive patrol, community policing, special event planning, investigations, property/evidence management, fleet management, and oversight of personnel. The Lieutenant acts as Incident Commander for major incidents, Watch Commander, and may assume the Chief’s or Deputy Chief’s duties when needed.

Salary and Status

FLSA: Exempt (Not eligible for overtime compensation)

Anticipated hiring range: $13,334–$13,834 per month. CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,053–$16,221 per month.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent from an accredited university/college. Possession of additional qualifying experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis.

Experience & License

• Minimum 10 years employment as a paid California peace officer.
• California P.O.S.T. academy, Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, and Supervisory certificates.
• Currently employed or previously employed as a Sergeant or higher with at least 3 years at Sergeant rank.
• Complete P.O.S.T. management certificate within one year and serve as lieutenant for at least two years.
• Meet all California Government Code Section 1031 and other state requirements for peace officers.
• Valid California Class “C” Driver’s license.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of law enforcement methods, criminal codes, and investigative techniques.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and laws accurately.
• Independent judgment, sound decision‑making, and effective leadership.
• Supervision and guidance of staff, fostering cooperation across a diverse population.
• Communication skills—verbal, written, and computer proficiency on Windows.
• Commitment to an inclusive work environment.

Conditions of Employment

Must pass a background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in criminal justice, sociology, psychology, or related field.
• University law enforcement experience.

Documents Needed to Apply

Resume, POST Advanced and Supervisory Certificates.

Equal Employment Opportunity

California State University, Sacramento is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and hires only individuals who are lawfully authorized to work in the United States. Applications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, genetic information, medical condition, marital status, veteran status, or disability.