The City of Lancaster is seeking a bold, visionary, and deeply authentic leader to serve as its next Chief of Police. This is a unique opportunity at a pivotal moment to guide Lancaster’s police bureau that is proud and ready to continue to grow and evolve. The next chief will partner closely with the Mayor, City Council, and administrative leadership to ensure that the police bureau’s goals and practices align with Lancaster’s civic values, strategic priorities, and aspirations. As Chief, you will be entrusted with communicating a compelling vision, mentoring subordinate leaders, and building systems that sustain excellence. You will balance internal development—coaching, culture, accountability—with external engagement—building relationships with residents and other key stakeholders, cultivating transparency, and collaborating with community partners. It’s a role for someone who can lean into complexity and lead with heart, inspiring confidence while navigating competing demands.
The Lancaster City Bureau of Police (LCBP) comprises approximately 128 sworn positions, 41 full time non-sworn, 16 part-time non-sworn, and 8 cadets. The bureau operates four rotating platoons, each at full staffing having 4 sergeants and 16 officers, along with designated field training roles and support structure. Successful candidates will have at least fifteen years of progressively responsible police experience, at least ten years of which must be in a supervisory capacity and at least five years at the command level. Candidates must have a demonstrated track record of working effectively in a culturally and ethnically diverse community. Experience should also include developing and implementing innovative crime reduction and community policing strategies. Candidates must effectively interact with the media, community stakeholders, elected officials, and labor groups. A bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university is required. A master’s degree in Public Administration or a related field is highly desirable. Advanced training, such as the FBI National Executive Institute, FBI National Academy, Southern Police Institute, or Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) – Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), is considered a plus, as is the ability to speak another language. Lancaster offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, the current salary range for this at-will position is up to $165, 000 annually, and placement will be based on the selected candidates’ qualifications. The benefits package includes health, dental, vision, retirement contributions, paid leave, professional development opportunities, and other customary municipal benefits. Interested candidates should apply by submitting a compelling cover letter and comprehensive resume to apply@publicsectorsearch.com by November 14th, 2025. Confidential inquiries are welcomed and should be directed to: Mr. Justin Doll (Chief of Police, ret.) Telephone: (907) 748-5746, Email: justin@publicsectorsearch.com. Position profile can be viewed at https://publicsectorsearch.com/police-chief-recruitments/.
EEO Statement
The City of Lancaster is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We adhere to a policy of making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, or disability. Your opportunity for employment with this City depends solely on your qualifications.
