Police Chief: Visionary, Community-Focused Leader

Menlo Park; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 234,000 - 316,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental & vision benefits

Educational reimbursement

Caltrain GoPass

Job summary

The City of Menlo Park seeks a forward-thinking Police Chief to lead the department with strategic planning, effective budgeting, and a strong focus on community partnerships. The ideal candidate will bring extensive local policing experience and a California POST Executive Certificate where possible, guiding a proactive, data-driven public safety approach.

The role offers a competitive salary range of $234,123–$316,067 with excellent benefits, potential relocation, and a collaborative city

Qualifications

• Ten years of progressively responsible local policing experience and executive leadership.
• Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, public or business administration, organizational leadership, or related field.
• California POST certificate or eligibility for executive POST certification.

Responsibilities

• Develop a strategic plan and vision for the police department.
• Translate priorities into action through planning and budgeting.
• Support leadership development and succession planning.
• Strengthen recruitment, selection, and field training programs.
• Enhance community engagement, transparency, and accountability.
• Oversee technology governance and performance reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Strategic planning

Crisis management

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

The City of Menlo Park seeks a forward-thinking Police Chief to lead the department with strategic planning, effective budgeting, and a strong focus on community partnerships. The ideal candidate will bring extensive local policing experience and a California POST Executive Certificate where possible, guiding a proactive, data-driven public safety approach.

The role offers a competitive salary range of $234,123–$316,067 with excellent benefits, potential relocation, and a collaborative city