Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Director

Position: New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Director

Salary (from)

$68,345

Salary (to)

$167,592

Description

The New Mexico Department of Public Safety (DPS) is seeking a dynamic, experienced, and visionary leader to serve as Director of the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy (NMLEA). The Director is the principal executive responsible for the overall operation and performance of the Academy, which includes a staff of twenty (20) FTEs. Working closely with the NMDPS Office of the Secretary, the Director collaborates with satellite law enforcement academies and agencies statewide to ensure the delivery of high-quality training and education for law enforcement professionals.

In addition to overseeing Academy operations, the Director chairs and manages eleven (11) support staff for the New Mexico Law Enforcement Standards and Training Council (NMLESTC), which is administratively attached to the NMLEA, and works closely with the New Mexico Law Enforcement Certification Board (NMLECB), administratively attached to DPS. This role demands strong leadership, deep knowledge of law enforcement training, and the ability to drive strategic initiatives that enhance public safety, professionalism, and accountability across New Mexico’s law enforcement community.

Requirements

LEADERSHIP and OVERSIGHT

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate the Academy’s policies, procedures, and training programs.
• Provide leadership and direction to a team of instructors, staff, and external training partners.
• Ensure all training programs align with state and national law enforcement standards, including accreditation requirements.

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT, EVALUATION, RULE MAKING and LEGISLATIVE WORK

• Oversee the development and continual assessment of law enforcement training curricula, ensuring it is relevant, up-to-date, and meets the needs of law enforcement agencies across New Mexico.
• Review and revise policies and procedures for law enforcement training and certification.
• Collaborate with law enforcement experts, stakeholders, and agencies to stay current with best practices, emerging trends, and legislative changes affecting public safety.
• Participate in and support rule making processes related to training standards, certification requirements, and regulatory compliance, ensuring alignment with state law and public safety goals.
• Engage in legislative work by monitoring proposed bills, providing subject matter expertise, and supporting the development of legislation related to law enforcement training and standards.

TRAINING DELIVERY and ADMINISTRATION

• Manage the scheduling and coordination of training sessions, ensuring a diverse range of advanced trainings are offered.
• Provide direct supervision to training staff, ensuring effective delivery of both basic and advanced training.
• Ensure the effective use of training resources, equipment, and facilities.

BUDGET and RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

• Develop and manage the Academy’s budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources to meet operational needs.
• Oversee procurement of materials, equipment, and supplies necessary for training programs.
• Identify opportunities for grant funding, partnerships, and sponsor ships to support Academy initiatives.

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT and COLLABORATION

• Serve as Chair of the Standards and Training Council, acting as the primary liaison with law enforcement agencies, government officials, and community stakeholders on issues related to law enforcement training and professional development.
• Represent the Academy at meetings, conferences, and public events, promoting its mission and fostering relationships with key partners.

COMPLIANCE and ACCOUNTABILITY

• Ensure all training programs and practices comply with state, federal, and departmental regulations.
• Oversee trainee performance and progress to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of Academy programs.
• Provide oversight and management of the software system used to track all records including certifications for law enforcement officers and telecommunicators across the state, ensuring compliance with the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Training Act and state standards.

STRATEGIC PLANNING and…