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Police Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Frederick, MD Police

Lateral Police Officer

Frederick, MD · On-site

$66K - $75K/yr

Police Officer - Lateral Job Number: POS-L-2026 Department: Frederick Police Department Division ... direct, and control routine and unusual traffic conditions • Check buildings for physical ...

City of Valley

Police Chief

Valley, NE · On-site

DEFINITION Plan, direct, manage and oversee the activities and operations of the Police Department including crime prevention,investigationand other law enforcement activities; coordinate assigned ...

City of Valley NE

Police Chief

Valley, NE

$60K - $120K/yr

DEFINITION Plan, direct, manage and oversee the activities and operations of the Police Department including crime prevention,investigationand other law enforcement activities; coordinate assigned ...

City of Valley NE

Police Chief

NE · On-site

$60K - $120K/yr

DEFINITION Plan, direct, manage and oversee the activities and operations of the Police Department including crime prevention, investigation and other law enforcement activities; coordinate assigned ...

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$21K

$76.1K

$169.5K

How much do police director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for police director in the United States is $76,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Police Directors?

Police Directors are senior law enforcement officials responsible for overseeing the management and administration of a police department or agency. Their duties typically include setting departmental policies, supervising high-ranking officers, managing budgets, and ensuring the effective enforcement of laws and regulations. Police Directors often serve as the public face of the department, working with community leaders and government officials to address public safety concerns. Unlike police chiefs, who may sometimes focus more on operational leadership, Police Directors often emphasize the strategic and administrative aspects of law enforcement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Director, you need extensive law enforcement experience, strong leadership abilities, and typically a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with crime analysis software, law enforcement databases, and incident reporting systems is essential, along with relevant certifications in police administration or leadership. Excellent decision-making, crisis management, and communication skills distinguish top-performing Police Directors. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective department operations, maintaining public safety, and building community trust.

What is a police director?

A police director is a senior law enforcement official responsible for overseeing the operations, administration, and strategic planning of a police department. They typically manage personnel, budgets, and policies, and often work closely with government officials to ensure public safety. Strong leadership, communication skills, and knowledge of law enforcement practices are essential for this role.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

The age at which someone can become a police officer varies by department, but many agencies accept applicants up to their early 30s. Being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a law enforcement career, and prior life experience can be an asset. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or GED, pass physical and background tests, and complete police academy training.

What are some common challenges faced by a Police Director in managing a diverse law enforcement team?

A Police Director often navigates challenges such as uniting officers with varied backgrounds and experiences, addressing differing perspectives on policing strategies, and ensuring consistent adherence to department policies. Balancing administrative duties with on-the-ground leadership requires strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, adapting to evolving community expectations and integrating new technologies or procedures can present ongoing hurdles, making continuous professional development and team engagement crucial.

What is the difference between Police Director vs Police Chief?

AspectPolice DirectorPolice Chief
Required CredentialsLaw enforcement experience, leadership skills, possibly advanced degreesLaw enforcement experience, leadership skills, often similar certifications
Work EnvironmentTypically oversees multiple departments or entire police agencies, strategic planningManages daily operations of a specific police department, community engagement
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in city, county, or state agencies; more common in larger jurisdictionsCommon in municipal police departments across various regions
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing leadership roles in law enforcementIndividuals seeking info on police department leadership positions

While both roles involve law enforcement leadership, a Police Director typically oversees broader agency strategies and multiple departments, whereas a Police Chief manages daily operations within a specific police department. The choice depends on the size of the jurisdiction and organizational structure.

What is the highest paid police position?

The highest paid police position is typically that of a Police Chief or Police Commissioner, who oversees the entire police department and sets policies. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced certifications, and they usually command the highest salaries within law enforcement agencies.

Can type 1 diabetics be police officers?

Police directors and law enforcement agencies generally do not have specific restrictions against hiring individuals with type 1 diabetes, but candidates must meet physical and medical standards required for the role. Managing diabetes effectively and passing medical evaluations are essential, and some agencies may require documentation from healthcare providers. Each department's policies can vary, so applicants should consult specific agency requirements.
More about Police Director jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs? The most popular types of Police jobs are:
What states have the most Police Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Police Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police Director jobs are:
Police Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,054 per year, or $36.6 per hour.

Police Chief

Executive Director - GMP Consultants

Circle Pines, MN • On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

My Account
Job Openings >> Police Chief
Police Chief
Summary
Title: Police Chief ID: 1246 Organization: Centennial Lakes Police Department Location: Circle Pines, MN First Review : 05/17/2026
More about this job >
Description

POLICE CHIEF
Centennial Lakes Police Department - Circle Pines, MN
First Review: May 17, 2026    
Salary Range: $140,000-$165,000 annually DOQ
View the Position Profile
Job Description
#    #    #


The Centennial Lakes Police Department is seeking a Police Chief to lead this joint-jurisdictional law enforcement agency serving the cities of Centerville, Circle Pines, and Lexington in Anoka County, Minnesota. These communities offer small-town charm, natural beauty, and convenient access to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metropolitan area. 
THE CENTENNIAL LAKES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Operating from their Circle Pines police station, the Centennial Lakes Police Department serves just over 12,000 residents across approximately five square miles with a 2026 budget of $3.38 million. In 2025, the Department responded to 9,212 calls for service. Staffing includes 17 fulltime and one parttime sworn officers, two fulltime and one parttime civilian clerical/records technicians, and three parttime civilian community service officers.    
The Department is overseen by a six-member Governing Board comprised of the mayor and a council member from each city. The Board meets quarterly and additionally as needed, with the City of Circle Pines acting as fiscal agent. An Operations Committee is responsible for administration and operations and consists of the Police Chief and the three city administrators. 
WHY APPLY 

The Centennial Lakes Police Department (CLPD) is an outstanding opportunity for its next Police Chief to lead a high-performing, professional, and progressive police department into the future. The new Chief will lead a department that is exceptionally well trained and well equipped, in an area with easy access to big city amenities while retaining the small-town charm of three smaller communities. This low-crime region offers vibrant neighborhoods, excellent schools, parks, trails, lakes, and other regional amenities that contribute to an outstanding quality of life. CLPD enjoys strong support from the communities it serves and is grounded in a culture of public safety and professionalism. The new Chief will have the opportunity to lead a relatively young workforce in this close-knit department, where the motto is "Serving with Courage and Compassion." 
 

For questions on this position, please contact:
Jeff Weldon
GMP Consultants
jweldon@gmphr.com
(320) 557-8006
Apply Now
 
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