Assistant Police Chief

*** First review of applications will take place on Monday, November 24th at 8:00am PST. Please note that the City reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time. Please submit a cover letter and resume detailing how your education, experience, training and qualifications make you an ideal candidate for the position. ***

Under the direction of the Police Chief, embrace vision of community-based policing and instill it in others; facilitate the development and implementation of a community-based police organization, with recognition of restraints and limitations; manage and lead a major division of police service operations; lead and supervise the activities of police captains and officers and other assigned staff; assure the enforcement of State, County and municipal laws;

plan and develop methods and procedures to assure department goals and objectives are met. Serve as Acting Police Chief in the Chief’s absence.

The Assistant Police Chief will assist in the overall direction of the department’s internal operations; directs assigned activities, while assuring the effective protection of lives, property and constitutional rights through the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Also to help formulate, develop, implement and evaluate department policies goals and objectives. The Assistant Police Chief will help inspire a sense of confidence and security in the citizens of Lakewood through professionalism, citizen involvement, and creative approaches to public safety.

The City of Lakewood participates in the Law Enforcement Officers' and Fire Fighters' Retirement System (LEOFF).

The proposed 2026 salary range for this position is $13,924 - $17,663/mo.

Perform all duties in accordance with the City of Lakewood’s Operating Principles.

Work and act as a team player with the Chief of Police and in all interactions with other city employees. Always provide a high level of customer service; project and maintain a positive image on behalf of the City of Lakewood with those contacted in the course of work.

Develop and implement the goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the Police Department; research policies and procedures related to department; identify resource needs; develop and implement policies and procedures; ensure policies and procedures are adhered to.

Participate in recommending the appointment of personnel; provide or coordinate staff training; work with employees to correct deficiencies; implement discipline procedures; recommend employee terminations; ensure personnel program is implemented equitably and consistently.

Direct, oversee, and participate in the development of the department’s work plan; forecast department’s requirements; assign work activities, projects, and programs; monitor workflow; review and evaluate work products, methods, and procedures; meet with staff to identify and resolve problems.

Identify opportunities for improving service delivery methods and procedures; review with Police Chief; implement improvements.

Respond to and resolve difficult and sensitive citizen inquiries and complaints.

Participate in the development and administration of the department budget; forecast additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; direct the monitoring of and approve expenditures; recommend adjustments as necessary.

Coordinate police department activities with those of other city departments, outside law enforcement agencies, and other organizations; provide staff assistance to the Police Chief; prepare and present staff reports and other necessary correspondence.

Direct and participate in the research of alternative approaches to law enforcement including community policing, coordinate implementation of Community Policing across multiple commands within the Department.

Participate in labor negotiations; advise City negotiation team regarding effects of negotiation demands; help clarify issues or concerns brought by the labor negotiators; ensure contract is complied with.

Advise or facilitate the recruitment, hiring, and promotion of Department personnel; assist Human Resources in identifying how and where to recruit target groups; assist in…