Chief of Police Job Opening

Position Title: Chief of Police

Department: Police Department

Supervisor: Winterset City Mayor

Job Summary:

Plans, programs, direct, evaluates and manages the operation of the Police Department. Formulates and implements new policy, operations, and disciplinary procedures. Establishes a positive relationship between the Police Department, outside agencies, and the general public. Directly supervises all Police Department employees, prepares and administers the annual budget. Monitors expenditures during the year and makes recommendations for budget modifications or additional funds.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Plans, directs and evaluates the overall law enforcement function of the Police Department and facilitates necessary changes.
  • Develops and executes departmental policies, procedures, programs, and long-range plans
  • Participates in other organizations within the City, County and State.
  • Reviews all significant incidents involving the Police Department and makes recommendations as necessary.
  • Evaluates the command staff throughout the year and with annual formal evaluations, as well as the structure of staff.
  • Develops staff of the Police Department and provides training opportunities for all members of the department
  • Establishes and maintains a positive image for the Police Department within the community.
  • Develops, administers and monitors the budget for the Police Department
  • Reviews and/or investigates all complaints regarding Police Department employees.•
  • Conducts self in a manner which promotes and supports diversity and inclusivity in the workplace and community.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Conditions:

The physical demands and work environment conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job and are encountered while performing those essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel: climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Employee exposed to possible dangerous situations on a daily basis. Ability to work in seasonal temperatures and may be exposed to potentially hazardous chemicals, diseases and blood borne pathogens; outside weather conditions; extreme cold, extreme heat; risk of electrical shock; explosives and vibrations.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Certification and Experience:

The ideal candidate for the position of Chief of Police in Winterset, Iowa, should possess the following qualifications:

  1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred. A combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree. A Master's degree is a plus.
  2. Certification: Must hold or be eligible to obtain Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Certification. Advanced certifications in leadership and management are highly desirable.
  3. Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, with at least 3-5 years of experience in leadership and/or program supervision. Experience in a similar-sized community is advantageous.
  4. Obtain or pass required: Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen, psychological examination (MMPI-II), maintain a valid Iowa driver’s license, meet the licensing standards established by Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, and comply with Iowa Administrative Code Section 501-2.1-2.2.
  5. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and management skills, with a proven track record of effectively leading and motivating law enforcement personnel.
  6. Community Policing: Demonstrated experience in community policing, building positive relationships with diverse communities, and implementing community engagement initiatives.
  7. Good working knowledge of law enforcement operations, management, budgeting, workplace safety, labor relations, and related matters
  8. Communication: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse community members, local government officials, and other stakeholders.
  9. Ethics and Integrity: Exemplary ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the highest level of integrity in law enforcement.
  10. Problem-Solving: Adept at analyzing complex issues, making sound decisions, and implementing innovative solutions to address community safety concerns.
  11. Technology: Familiarity with modern law enforcement technology and a willingness to stay updated on emerging trends and tools in policing.

* The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position.

Position Profile: Chief of Police - City of Winterset, Iowa

Under the general direction of the Mayor and in cooperation with the City Administrator, the Chief of Police is responsible for the operation and performance of the Police Department. The administrative and professional responsibilities of the Chief of Police will include assessing, planning, organizing, coordinating, and managing the activities and personnel of the police department. The Chief of Police will collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and provide advice, guidance, and policy recommendations to the City Administrator, City Council, other City departments, and various boards and committees as it relates to police matters.

City Overview:

Winterset, Iowa, is a charming and close-knit community located in Madison County located approximately 30 miles southwest of the state capital city of Des Moines. Known for its picturesque landscapes, historic and vibrant downtown square, historic covered bridges, John Wayne Birthplace, George Stout’s childhood home, and George Washington Carver history. The City of Winterset is a population that values safety, community engagement, and quality of life. The city boasts a population of approximately 5,353 residents and is characterized by its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Demographics:

  • Population: Approximately 5,353
  • Median Age: 36.6 years (as per the City's Comprehensive Plan)
  • Racial Diversity: Predominantly White (97.8% as per the City's Comprehensive Plan)
  • Economic Composition: A mix of blue-collar and white-collar workers, with a focus on agriculture and small businesses.

Crime Rates:

Winterset prides itself on being a safe community. While crime is relatively low, the Chief of Police plays a pivotal role in maintaining this status.

Key crime statistics include:

  • Low violent crime rates
  • Property crimes are occasional but require proactive measures to keep them in check.
  • Drug-related offenses occasionally require attention.
  • Traffic-related incidents are a concern given the city's growing population.

City's Comprehensive Plan:

The City of Winterset's Comprehensive Plan (2022) serves as a guiding document for future development and community well-being. It provides valuable insights into the city's demographics and goals, including the mentioned median age of 36.6 years. The Comprehensive Plan also emphasizes the importance of community safety and crime prevention as key components of ensuring a high quality of life for residents.

The Department:

The Winterset Police Department, comprised of nine full-time officers, is unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the community of Winterset, Iowa, responding to approximately 4,000 calls for service. The department's officers bring a diverse array of certifications and expertise, including drug recognition experts, taser instructor, firearms instructors, rifle instructor, K9 handler, defensive tactics instructor, school resource officer, ALICE trainer, ALERRT response trainer, ARIDE certified, and L.E.I.N. certifications. This multifaceted skill set underscores the department's dedication to proactive community policing and safety.

Officer Retention:

The City of Winterset highly values its committed police force, emphasizing robust officer retention. Historically, the department has upheld an impressive retention rate, a testament to its nurturing work atmosphere and community-centered policing approaches. The tenures of our officer’s span from 19 years of service to 5 years, showcasing their long-standing commitment to safeguarding and serving the Winterset community.

Community Engagement and Participation in Community Events:

The Chief of Police is expected to take a leading role in fostering positive relationships with community members. This includes active participation in local events and engagement efforts aimed at enhancing public trust and collaboration between the police department and the community.

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the Winterset Police Department's mission. Officers actively participate in various community events, including:

    •  Youth mentoring programs- Touch-a-truck, Halloween Trick or Treat, Junior Academy, Parade Escorts, Cocoa with a Cop, Shop with a Cop,              Every 15 minutes, and other community events

    •  School resource officer initiatives

    •  Partnerships with local organizations and businesses

Certification and Experience:

The ideal candidate for the position of Chief of Police in Winterset, Iowa, should possess the following qualifications:

  1. Education: A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred. A combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree. A master’s degree is a plus.
  2. Certification: Must hold or be eligible to obtain Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Certification. Advanced certifications in leadership and management are highly desirable.
  3. Experience: A minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, with at least 3-5 years of experience in leadership and/or program supervision. Experience in a similar-sized community is advantageous.
  4. Obtain or pass required: Must pass a pre-employment physical and drug screen, psychological examination (MMPI-II), maintain a valid Iowa driver’s license, meet the licensing standards established by Iowa Law Enforcement Academy, and comply with Iowa Administrative Code Section 501-2.1-2.2.
  5. Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and management skills, with a proven track record of effectively leading and motivating law enforcement personnel.
  6. Community Policing: Demonstrated experience in community policing, building positive relationships with diverse communities, and implementing community engagement initiatives.
  7. Good working knowledge of law enforcement operations, management, budgeting, workplace safety, labor relations, and related matters
  8. Communication: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse community members, local government officials, and other stakeholders.
  9. Ethics and Integrity: Exemplary ethical standards and a commitment to maintaining the highest level of integrity in law enforcement.
  10. Problem-Solving: Adept at analyzing complex issues, making sound decisions, and implementing innovative solutions to address community safety concerns.
  11. Technology: Familiarity with modern law enforcement technology and a willingness to stay updated on emerging trends and tools in policing.

The City of Winterset provides a safe and inclusive community for all residents, and the Chief of Police plays a vital role in achieving this mission. The successful candidate will lead a department that values community engagement, proactive crime prevention, and a commitment to fostering positive relationships within the community. If you are a dedicated and experienced law enforcement professional with a passion for community-oriented policing, we invite you to apply for this exciting leadership opportunity in Winterset, Iowa.

The Chief of Police is an FLSA exempt position.

The starting salary range is $80,000-$90,000, DOQ.

To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume or additional questions to:

Drew Barden, City Administrator

Email: dbarden@cwmu.net

Phone: (515)462-1422


1.  Application posted…………………………………………………………..….…........................................................Tuesday, September 19, 2023

2.  Application deadline………………………………………………………...........................................................……….…Sunday, October 22, 2023

3.  Panel Review to determine semifinalists ……….……............................…………….....……………Monday, October 23, 2023

4.  Conduct virtual interviews for semifinalists…………………………...............................…………...…Friday, October 27, 2023

5.  Determine Finalists……………………………………………………………............................................................………. Friday, October 27, 2023

6.  Finalist City Tour/ Meet City Staff & Elected Officials…………… Wed-Thursday, November 15-16,2023

7.  In person Interview of candidates…………………………........................…………Wed-Thursday, November 15-16,2023

8.  Contingent offer of employment……………………………………........................................……………...Friday, November 17,2023

9.  Candidate MMPI, physical, and drug screen evaluation………………………...............………by December 8, 2023

10.  Presentation to Council and Badge Pinning………………………...................……...……Monday December 18, 2023

11.  Proposed starting date of employment …………………………….....................……...……..Tuesday December 19, 2023

This timeline could be adjusted by 3 weeks depending on the need to hold virtual interviews.