Chief of Police
The City of Kearney, Nebraska is seeking an experienced, dynamic, law enforcement professional to lead our Police Department as the next Police Chief. The ideal candidate will be a proactive, forward thinking, innovative leader who is deeply committed to community-oriented policing, with a demonstrated ability to lead with integrity, innovation and vision. With approximately 34,000 residents, Kearney is a vibrant, proactive community located squarely in the nation’s midpoint and a crossroads for commerce and culture.
As Police Chief, you will be responsible for overseeing all operations of the Kearney Police Department consisting of 61 FT Sworn Officers and 17 Non-Sworn professional staff and a $14.5 million-dollar operating budget. You will set the tone for a modern, responsive, and accountable police force, leading with integrity and purpose. The ideal candidate will be community-minded, customer service-oriented, and committed to building trust through transparency, collaboration, inclusiveness, and proactive policing strategies.
Key qualities emphasized by community and organizational stakeholders include:
- Commitment to Community Policing: Prioritize neighborhood-level engagement and meaningful partnerships with residents, schools, and local organizations to build trust and address concerns proactively.
- Transparency and Accountability: Model integrity in decision-making and communications with department personnel, city leadership, and the broader public.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Promote an inclusive and respectful workplace culture, and support recruitment, hiring, and promotional practices that reflect the diversity of the Kearney community.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize analytics and evidence-based strategies to guide operations, allocate resources, and continually improve policing outcomes.
$117,078-$170,164 DOQ
- $6,000 Sign-on bonus
- Generous leave accrual rate with 40 hours of sick and vacation available on date of hire.
- 12 Paid Holidays
- 2 Annual Personal Days
- Comprehensive health and dental program
- 9% 401A Retirement Match
- Life Insurance
- Long Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Cell phone and Mobile Computer
- Uniforms and equipment provided
The ideal candidate will have a proven record of effective community engagement, strategic planning, policy development, and collaborative problem-solving, particularly in a dynamic and growing community. Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice; police, public or business administration; political science, social sciences or a related field is required, Master's Degree preferred. Ten years of law enforcement officer experience, including five years administrative or management experience that is broad-based and includes a commitment to a community-oriented philosophy of policing. Graduation from state accredited law enforcement training academy with advanced executive training. Out-of-state candidates must be able to obtain reciprocity and certification within the timeframe required by the State of Nebraska. In current good standing within department with the ability to demonstrate good moral character. Possession of a valid driver’s license.
Community and position details: https://online.fliphtml5.com/edifg/awcj/
Application and hiring process: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofkearney
