Deputy Police Chief

The Position

The City of Boulder is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking police leader to serve as its next Deputy Police Chief. A key member of the Boulder Police Department's Executive Team, the Deputy Chief provides strategic and operational leadership to advance the department's vision, mission, and priorities. Reporting directly to the Police Chief and serving as Acting Chief in their absence, the Deputy Chief leads the Operations Section and oversees Patrol, Investigations, SWAT, Field Training, the Public Safety Information Center (PSIC), and other high-profile units, providing leadership and direction across these critical functions.

The Deputy Chief provides leadership on enforcement strategies, crime prevention and reduction, intelligence-led policing, and resource allocation. In partnership with the Police Chief and division commanders, they guide strategic planning, evaluate emerging law enforcement trends, and identify opportunities to improve organizational effectiveness and service delivery. Beyond day-to-day operations, the Deputy Chief contributes to the department's overall administrative and organizational effectiveness, including budget development and management, capital improvement projects, technology and equipment initiatives, and operational performance measurement. The role also represents management in labor negotiations, oversees police contracts and service agreements, and works closely with the Police Chief and City leadership on legal, policy, and legislative matters.

The Deputy Police Chief actively leads efforts to develop and sustain a diverse, highly capable, service-oriented workforce. They provide leadership in staffing, recruitment, training, policy development, performance management, and employee development, while fostering a culture of accountability, professional growth, and organizational readiness.

The Deputy Police Chief is a forward-thinking, transformational leader with demonstrated expertise in relational change management and a strong commitment to progressive policing, operational excellence, and meaningful community engagement. Aligned with the vision outlined in the Reimagine Policing Plan, they embrace a problem-solving approach and a holistic governance model that emphasizes strong relationships, accountability, transparency, and officer readiness. An approachable, emotionally intelligent leader, the Deputy Police Chief builds trust and credibility across a broad range of relationships, including City leadership, elected officials, department employees, labor organizations, community-based organizations, neighborhood groups, and outside agencies.

With demonstrated cultural awareness and humility, the successful candidate values diverse perspectives and intentionally builds meaningful relationships with communities of color and individuals whose voices have traditionally been underrepresented in local decision-making. They understand how the history of policing and systemic inequities have shaped community perceptions and experiences, and they approach this work with empathy, openness, and a genuine commitment to inclusive engagement. A person of strong moral character and integrity, the Deputy Police Chief leads by example and consistently demonstrates accountability, mutual respect, and professionalism. They foster a positive, inclusive workplace where employees at all levels feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute. Committed to employee well-being, professional development, and organizational readiness, they champion progressive, department-wide training that aligns with and responds to community needs.

Qualifications

Nine to ten (9-10) years of experience that includes at least three (3) years serving in a command or executive-level position, with two (2) years of supervisory experience or ten (10) years of serving in a supervisory position (at a level of Sergeant or above) in a law enforcement agency is required. Demonstrated experience in community policing leadership and crime reduction initiatives, coupled with command leadership skills that foster an open, trusting, and welcoming work environment, is essential. A genuine commitment to and prior experience with an active model of community-led, problem-solving policing is required. Prior experience advancing racial equity initiatives, with demonstrated experience collaborating on issues including mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness, is essential. A deep commitment to transparency with a proven track record of building trust and effective relationships in the community is non-negotiable. Command leadership training such as the FBI National Academy, Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command, Southern Police Institute Command training, PERF’s Senior Management Institute for Police, or similar program is preferred.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in law enforcement, criminal justice, criminology, public or business administration, or a related field is required. The Deputy Police Chief must obtain Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification within 6 months of starting the job and be able to meet all requirements of a Boulder police officer position. They must also hold and maintain a valid driver's license.

Compensation and Benefits

The annual salary range for the Deputy Police Chief is $175,406 - $214,364, with an anticipated hiring range of $175,406 - $206,573, and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Boulder is a progressive organization that values employee engagement and well-being. The City recognizes the importance of providing an encompassing health and life benefits program to employees, including Hybrid Work, Flex Schedules, Telehealth and Wellness Incentives, Infants and Dogs at Work Program, Local bus Eco-Pass, and an Employee Discount Program on goods and services throughout the Boulder Community. For additional information, please visit the Staff Benefits Guide.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position is open until filled, with the first review of applications beginning December 7, 2026.