A national search is underway to attract an exceptional law enforcement executive to head the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) Police Department. Headquartered in Oakland, BART is a heavy-rail public transit system that connects the San Francisco Peninsula. BART operates in five counties (San Francisco, San Mateo, Alameda, Contra Costa, and Santa Clara) with 131 miles of track, 50 stations, and a $1.017 billion operating budget.
The BART Police Department is a full-service, CALEA-accredited organization that is comprised of 411 sworn and civilian law enforcement personnel. The department recently published a four-year strategic plan that emphasizes expanding community engagement, addressing facility and technology needs (including the construction of a new police headquarters), developing the organization, and promoting employee wellness and training. Increasing police presence and visibility in stations and on trains are key elements of the plan. To address competitive Bay Area market conditions and strengthen police officer deployment in stations and trains, BART’s Board of Directors unanimously approved a 22% salary increase for BART police officers and managers in June 2023.
BART’s next Chief of Police will be an accomplished law enforcement leader with a track record of working successfully in a dynamic and complicated environment. They will be an effective partner and communicator committed to collaborating with all stakeholders.
Minimum qualifications include at least seven years of full-time equivalent, verifiable law enforcement experience with at least three years of management experience at a rank equivalent to Lieutenant or higher in an organization of similar or larger size and complexity. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, criminology, public administration or a closely related field from an accredited college or university is required. A master’s degree is preferred. Experience in a senior management role within a large transit authority is highly desired, as is command-level experience in a large and complex urban-area law enforcement organization. Top candidates will have a strong commitment to public safety and community-oriented policing.  Â
The salary range is currently up to $270,000 – $300,000, depending on experience and qualifications. BART offers an exceptional benefits package, including CalPERS retirement, a supplemental pension plan, generous health benefits, and more.
Candidates are encouraged to apply by July 31, 2023. Electronic submittals by highly qualified candidates should include a compelling cover letter, a comprehensive resume, and at least five professional references.
Please direct confidential inquiries to:
Mark Helms, Senior Consultant
Chief of Police, Ret.
Mobile (209) 639-4077
Office (916) 789-9990
