Description
THE OPPORTUNITY
The City of South Pasadena offers an exceptional opportunity for a forward-thinking law enforcement leader to serve in one of Southern California’s most distinctive communities. As the next Police Chief, you will guide a progressive department that blends a proud history of community policing with a reputation for innovation. With a supportive City Council, engaged residents, and a deeply rooted civic identity, the Chief will play a central role in shaping public safety strategies that honor South Pasadena’s small-town character while addressing the complex realities of a dynamic metropolitan region. This is a chance to lead a talented and dedicated team, strengthen trusted community partnerships, and set the standard for modern policing in California.
ABOUT SOUTH PASADENA
The City of South Pasadena, incorporated in 1888, is a charming and historic community nestled in the West San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County. Encompassing just 3.4 square miles and home to approximately 26,000 residents, South Pasadena is widely recognized for its strong sense of community, tree-lined streets, and distinctive small-town character while in the heart of a major metropolitan area. With a strong civic identity, active community engagement, and proximity to major economic and cultural centers, South Pasadena offers an exceptional quality of life for those seeking a welcoming, inclusive, and connected place to call home.
Learn more about the City of South Pasadena here..
THE SOUTH PASADENA POLICE DEPARTMENT
The South Pasadena Police Department dates back to 1888 and has evolved to a progressive policing agency by using the latest technology, crime prevention/reduction strategies, social media platforms and regional law enforcement partnerships to provide exceptional law enforcement service to the community.
The department is staffed with 37 sworn officers, along with 18 full-time and 6 part-time professional staff, organized into four major divisions: Field Services, Detective Bureau, Support Services, and Administration. The Chief’s command staff includes a Deputy Chief and two Lieutenants. The police department provides public safety services with a FY25-26 budget of $13.2 million.
THE POSITION
The Police Chief serves as the City’s top law enforcement official and a trusted member of the executive leadership team. Reporting to the City Manager, the Chief provides vision, integrity, and strategic leadership to a department with a long history of delivering public safety through the philosophy of community policing. South Pasadena’s Police Department operates under a well-established Neighborhood Oriented Policing Plan, partnering with residents and businesses to reduce crime, build trust, and improve quality of life. The Chief plays a pivotal role in shaping the Department’s culture, advancing transparency and accountability, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all who live, work, and visit the community. Key areas of responsibility include department leadership & oversight; strategic planning & modern policing practices; community policing & engagement; organizational effectiveness; regional & interagency collaboration: budgeting & fiscal responsibility; and ethics & accountability.
The ideal candidate is looking for new ways to further professionalize the department, improve service delivery, and build the next generation of leaders; will be fluent in 21st century policing principles and continually aware of emerging trends and issues; will be a strong leader, committed to leading by example and delivering excellent customer service; will have an understanding of change management and building employee buy-in; and be willing to invest in the mentorship and professional development of employees.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The City of South Pasadena provides a competitive compensation and benefits package. The salary for this role is up to $253,080, with specific placement within the range dependent on qualifications and experience. Key elements of the City’s benefits program include retirement provided by CalPERS with a formula of 2.0% @ 50 for Classic PERS member employees and a 2.7% @ 57 formula for PEPRA members. The City also offers merit pay up to 2% above the salary step in the pay schedule and a city contribution of 1% of base salary to a deferred compensation plan.
Interested candidates are encouraged to review the detailed recruitment brochure at https://www.mosaicpublic.com/careers for additional benefit information.
APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply no later than October 27, 2025, by submitting a cover letter and résumé online at:
https://www.mosaicpublic.com/careers
This recruitment will be handled with strict confidentiality. References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established.
Confidential inquiries are welcomed to:
Chief Greg Nelson (ret.) | [email protected] | (916) 550-4100
Chief Bryan Noblett (ret.) |[email protected] | (916) 550-4100
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
A combination of education and experience that demonstrates the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered qualifying for this position. The following is a typical way to qualify:
Education: A Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Criminal Justice Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Possession of a P.O.S.T. Management Certificate is required. Graduation from P.O.S.T. Command College or the FBI National Academy and/or a Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university is highly desirable.
Experience: A minimum of ten years of experience in contemporary law enforcement with progressively responsible positions in a variety of police functions including supervision and management duties.
