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Job Description
Police Chief
City of Arcata, CA
The City of Arcata is a charming and vibrant community located on the northern coast of California, in Humboldt County, with a population of approximately 19,000. Known for its picturesque natural surroundings, progressive culture, and strong community spirit, Arcata offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban amenities.
Arcata is home to Cal Poly Humboldt, a renowned institution recognized for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs, hands on learning, and graduate commitment to environmental stewardship. The university brings a youthful energy to the city and contributes to its culture and intellectual vibrancy.
The City of Arcata is seeking a leader with a strong record of community engagement. The new Chief must be approachable, collaborative, open-minded, and friendly. They must have a commitment to understand and support diversity and inclusion in the workplace. They must understand and embrace serving in a rural community. The new Chief must have a strong administrative skill set, experience in budget preparation, a strong record in the recruiting, retention, and support of staff.
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in police science, administration of justice, business or public administration, or a closely related field, and at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least four (4) years of experience at the rank of Lieutenant or above, including administrative and budgeting experience. The Bachelor’s degree requirement may be waived for Captains and Lieutenants who have experience in multiple facets of law enforcement operations and leadership.
The salary for this position will be commensurate with experience and regionally competitive. The current range for the position is $122,709 to $156,611 annually. Additional compensation of 6% for possession of a valid POST Intermediate Certificate and an added 6% for possession of a valid POST Advanced Certificate. A $50,000 bonus paid over 30 months and Relocation Assistance of up to $5,000. City also offers an attractive benefits package.
To apply, please visit our website at:
Peckham & McKenney
Feel free to contact Diana Bishop at (408) 800-7653 if you have questions about this position. A detailed brochure is available at: www.peckhamandmckenney.com
Filing deadline is July 21, 2025.
Resumes acknowledged within two business days.
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Job Requirements
see above
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Special Instructions
Please visit our website at www.peckhamandmckenney.com to apply for this opportunity.
Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.
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ABOUT THE COMPANY
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Peckham & McKenney
Show moreWith over 50 years of combined experience in executive search, management and local government, Peckham & McKenney brings a high level of understanding and service to their clients and candidates.
Peckham & McKenney provides Executive Search and Consulting services to local government agencies throughout the Western United States and is headquartered in Sacramento, CA, with an office in Lake Tahoe and a presence in Denver, CO.
Peckham & McKenney was established on the premise that an executive search and consulting firm must be dedicated to providing its clients and candidates with professional service, as well as a personal, hands-on approach. Our business philosophy centers upon the understanding that this is a "people" oriented industry and that attention to others' needs is the key to providing excellent customer service. Not only are we committed to providing our clients with well-qualified candidates, but we also take pride in treating both clients and candidates with the utmost respect that they deserve.
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