Description

Follow the link to review the job description and officially apply. Deadline to apply is October 12, 2025.

Job Summary

The Chief of Police serves as the department head of the Pleasant Prairie Police Department, responsible for overseeing all operations, strategic planning, and administrative functions of the department. This position requires a commitment to public safety, community engagement, and the promotion of ethical law enforcement practices. The Police Chief will work collaboratively with community stakeholders, government officials, and law enforcement personnel to enhance the quality of life within the Village of Pleasant Prairie. The Chief of Police is an appointed position by the Police & Fire Commission. 

Principal Activities

• Leads and manages the day-to-day operations of the Police Department, including law enforcement division, detective bureau, staffing, and support services. 
• Develops and implements departmental policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives to ensure effective law enforcement and community safety; assists with the development of ordinances and laws regarding public safety. 
• Prepares and manages the departmental budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and adherence of fiscal policies. 
• Ensures the department responds effectively to calls for service and addresses crime and disorder within the community. 
• Responds to major incidents, emergencies, and critical situations and provides leadership and direction as needed. 
• Oversees the recruitment, training, and development of police personnel, ensures a competent and well-trained workforce; directs special studies and the preparation of comprehensive reports. 
• Maintains departmental integrity and organizational motivation and fosters a culture of accountability and transparency, promoting professional conduct and ethical behavior among all personnel. 
• Collaborates with local government officials, community organizations, and other stakeholders to address public safety concerns and enhance community relations. 
• Engages with community members through outreach programs, forums, and public meetings to strengthen trust and communication between the Police Department and the community. 
• Ensures the department operates in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Requirements

Requirements - educational, certifications and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field; a Master’s degree is preferred. 
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive law enforcement experience, with at least 7 years in a supervisory or leadership role with a law enforcement agency.
• State of Wisconsin Law Enforcement Certification.
• Valid Driver’s License.  
• Command leadership training such as FBI National Academy, Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff & Command, or similar program highly preferred.  
• Proven experience with community policing, crime prevention strategies, and organizational management. 
• Strong understanding of law enforcement practices, legal frameworks, and ethical standards. 
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to engage diverse communities effectively. 
• Demonstrated ability to analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and provide innovative solutions. 
• Knowledge of budget management and resource allocation. 

The Village of Pleasant Prairie is an Equal Opportunity Employer