Description
Amarillo, Texas
Chief of Police
The City of Amarillo, Texas, is conducting a nationwide search to identify its next Chief of Police. This is an extraordinary opportunity for a proven and principled law enforcement leader to serve a growing and dynamic community at a pivotal time in its history. Amarillo residents and police department employees alike have voiced a strong desire for a leader who embodies integrity, accountability, fairness, and vision. The successful candidate will inherit a department of capable officers and staff who are deeply committed to serving Amarillo but who also seek a leader to guide organizational change, modernize systems, and improve retention and recruitment.
Community members are eager for a Chief who is both highly visible and highly engaged—someone who listens, communicates openly, and inspires trust. The next Chief of Police for Amarillo will be an experienced law enforcement professional who leads with integrity, humility, and vision. This is a role for a Chief who can both inspire confidence within the department and strengthen trust across the community.
The Amarillo Police Department (APD) is a full-service agency with a proud history of protecting and serving the community. The department is authorized for approximately 380 sworn officers and 74 civilian employees, making it one of the larger municipal law enforcement agencies in West Texas. APD provides a full spectrum of services, including patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, specialized tactical units, and community engagement programs. The department is supported by an annual budget of over $60 million and operates out of modern headquarters facilities.
Requirements
Successful candidates will possess a bachelor’s degree with major coursework in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field, along with a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including significant command-level leadership experience. Master’s degree and/or advanced training from Northwestern Staff & Command, FBI National Academy or the PERF’s Senior Management Institute for Police is preferred.
Must have certification as a Texas Peace Officer or ability to obtain certification. If the successful candidate is from outside the State of Texas, they must achieve Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) certification within the required timeframe set by state law and successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation.
This at-will position has a salary range of $200,000–$240,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, that is augmented by an excellent benefits package. Per Chapter 143 of Texas Local Government Code, this position is required to be confirmed by the municipality’s governing body.
Interested candidates should apply by submitting a compelling cover letter and comprehensive resume to [email protected] by October 17, 2025. Only the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the in-person selection process in November 2025.
Confidential inquiries are welcomed and should be directed to:
Mr. Justin Doll (Chief of Police, ret.) – Senior Consultant
Public Sector Search & Consulting
Telephone: (907) 748-5746
Email: [email protected].
Position profile can be viewed at https://publicsectorsearch.com/police-chief-recruitments/
EEO Statement
The City of Amarillo is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from eligible and qualified persons regardless of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, disability, genetic information or protected veteran status, in compliance with applicable federal, state and local law unless it is shown to be a bonafide occupational requirement.
