Chief of Police

The Village of Lemont is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to serve as its next Chief of Police. This is an extraordinary opportunity for a forward-thinking professional to shape the future of policing in one of Illinois’ most historic and thriving communities. This is more than just a job—it’s a calling. Lemont offers a tight-knit, engaged community that values public service, safety, and innovation in law enforcement.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary Range: $160,000-165,000 DOQ (Placement based on experience and qualifications)
• Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes:
• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and “We Never Walk Alone” Membership
• Downstate Police Pension, If Eligible
• Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation, Personal, and Sick Leave)
• 11 Paid Holidays Annually
• Professional Development and Training Opportunities
• Tuition Reimbursement

Qualifications

EDUCATION:

• A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, business, public administration, or a related discipline is a prerequisite, with a master’s degree preferred.
• Completion of an advanced leadership and senior management training program such as the FBI National Academy, Northwestern’s School of Police Staff and Command, Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officer Course, or PERF Senior Management Institute for Police is highly desirable.

EXPERIENCE:

• At least 20 years of law enforcement experience as a full-time sworn officer.
• A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive supervisory experience in law enforcement with at least five (5) years of senior command-level experience as a Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief, or similar senior administrative rank in a comparable law enforcement agency.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• The position requires a valid Illinois Driver’s License and certification from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, or the ability to obtain certification within six months of appointment.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate must possess the following qualities:

• Be an ethical leader who leads by example, embraces best practices, is capable of making sound decisions under pressure, and can motivate and develop staff while maintaining an inclusive culture of teamwork, accountability, and professionalism.
• Candidates must exhibit proficiency in interpreting and applying laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to law enforcement, ensuring department operations are in compliance with all federal, state, and local laws.
• Candidate must be a clear and persuasive communicator, both written and oral, capable of engaging with diverse audiences, stakeholders, and governing bodies.
• Innovative thinking, with a focus on leveraging current technology, programs, and procedures to improve service delivery and support department staff.
• Proven ability to be an inclusive and collaborative leader with experience in community engagement, department administration, and strategic planning.
• The ability to build and maintain positive relationships with the residential, business, and educational communities, and to lead the department through active community engagement. Practice good active listening skills and be approachable to all people.
• Possess the drive to be actively engaged with the larger community of law enforcement leaders and maintain professional relationships with peers in the area.
• Commitment to modern policing strategies, including crime prevention, crime reduction, investigative techniques, and patrol operations, while continuously evaluating new technologies and tactics.
• Proficiency in budget management, resource allocation, personnel leadership, and staff development.
• Must exhibit outstanding leadership abilities and a comprehensive understanding of police department operations.
• Capable of developing, implementing, and enforcing policies and procedures that govern day-to-day operations.
• Ability to effectively evaluate and motivate personnel to ensure high performance and professional growth.
• Show strong strategic thinking in managing the development and implementation of department goals and objectives.
• Must be able to thoroughly assess workloads, administrative systems, and internal relationships to identify areas for improvement and implement the necessary changes.
• Dedication to prioritizing professional development, continuously seeking opportunities for growth to enhance competence through associations, education, and official functions.
• Maintain personal and professional integrity in all interactions with the public, elected officials, and city personnel. Must model the organization’s value.