Position Announcement

POLICE CHIEF

Lincoln, Nebraska, Police Department 

The City of Lincoln (serving a population of 290,000 in a 100-square mile area) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Police Chief. The city is looking for a proven leader who is committed to professional, community-focused, and transparent policing, and has demonstrated experience implementing 21st Century policing principles. The successful candidate will have exceptional management and communication skills to lead the men and women of the Lincoln Police Department, as well as the ability to effectively and enthusiastically engage, communicate, and collaborate with all of the diverse groups that make up the Lincoln community. The police chief is appointed by the mayor, with approval from the city council, and reports to the mayor. 

The Lincoln Police Department has a budget of $56.5 million and a staff of 358 sworn officers and 140 professional staff members and has a long history of providing responsive public safety services to its residents. The department has earned the respect and support of the community it serves. Many elements of the desired qualifications for the chief’s position have to do with maintaining and strengthening that community support and trust in the police. 

As the state capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is home to several universities and colleges, and has a vibrant cultural scene that includes local theatre, music, art, and dining. There are many miles of biking, hiking and walking trails as well as beautiful and plentiful parks, and the city has one of the premier public school districts in the Midwest. Lincoln offers a high quality of life with a low cost of living and is an ideal community in which to raise a family. Many residents enjoy following the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Huskers, who are a proud member of the Big Ten Conference.

The successful candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree and progressively responsible command-level experience in policing; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the desired knowledge, abilities and skills. An advanced degree, along with additional specialized leadership education, such as the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP) or the FBI National Academy, are preferred. The successful candidate must obtain certification as a Police Officer in the State of Nebraska.

Salary Range: $125,000 - $175,000 DOQ, plus a competitive fringe benefits package.

Qualified candidates should apply by Monday, April 26 with cover letter, résumé, and the names and contact information of five (5) references in confidence to:

[email protected] 

The City of Lincoln is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

All qualified candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. 

The Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) is assisting in the selection process. If you have questions regarding this opportunity, or a recommendation of a colleague, please contact Rebecca Neuburger at [email protected] or (202)997-6287. 

Please click here for a link to the job profile.