Description

NATURE OF WORK:

This is executive and technical law enforcement work leading and directing all employees and activities of the Braintree Police Department.  This position is responsible for protecting lives and property in the Town through supervising all law enforcement functions, efficiently managing the Police Department through control of activities and by taking measures to prevent crime and protect lives and property through the planning of activities and the training, assignment, supervision and discipline of all department employees.  

The Town operates under the “strong Chief” statute, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41, Section 97A, which states in relevant part, “The Chief of Police shall be in immediate control of all town property used by the department and of the police officers and other employees, whom he shall assign to their respective duties and who shall obey his orders.” 

 SUPERVISION:

The Chief of Police is appointed by and reports to the Mayor, and is subject to broad policies and legal requirements established by local, state and federal law, plus the Rules and Regulations of the Braintree Police Department. 

JOB ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed primarily in an office setting; however, significant time may be spent outside the Chief’s office, such as, by way of non-exhaustive example, at crime scenes, Town Hall, and at Town Council meetings.  At times an incumbent in this classification may be subject to exposure to infectious diseases, hazardous materials, and exposure to all types of serious risks affecting personal safety.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as non-exhaustive illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.  Duties are not necessarily in order of importance or frequency of performance.)

• Formulates order, rules and regulations to govern the Police Department and its employees. 
• Assesses the effectiveness of programs and procedures, making changes where necessary to improve law enforcement operations.  
• Convenes and presides over Police Department staff meetings to discuss policies, procedures and trends. 
• Oversees the preparation of the Police Department budget and expenditure of funds. 
• Ensures that recruit and in-service training programs are planned and conducted in conformity with best practices and relevant law. 
• Meets with sworn and civilian members of the Police Department, other Town Officials, Town employees, civic groups and members of the public to discuss issues, explain policies and procedures, respond to questions and resolve complaints.  
• Cooperates with state and federal authorities whenever their operations overlap those of the Braintree Police Department.
• Interviews, conducts background investigations of, and recommends for appointment or promotion all applicants for positions within the Braintree Police Department. 
• Actively participates in all appraisals of employees within the Braintree Police Department.  
• Has regular access to confidential records and information at the department level requiring discretion in interactions, attention to detail in handling information and records, compliance with security protocols and ensures all records are properly maintained and reported.   
• Manages the Department’s finances, including the budget and payroll.  
• Regularly collaborates with the Mayor and/or the Mayor’s designee on the Department’s matters and public safety issues within the Town.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or as the situation dictates within the scope of this classification. 
• Regular and predictable attendance is required for this position.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, police science, criminology, public or business administration or related field from an accredited college or university.  A Master’s degree or advanced training in law enforcement management is preferred. 
• At least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in a law enforcement agency, five of which have been in an administrative or command position. 
• Possession of a current basic recruit academy completion certificate or exemption awarded by the Massachusetts Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC).
• Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) Certification.
• Possession of a valid license to carry a firearm (LTC).
• Possession of a valid Massachusetts motor vehicle operator’s license.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:

Knowledge: Knowledge of the principles and practices of the police department and its administration and the organization and operation of its bureaus and divisions.  Knowledge of Massachusetts General Laws and related case authority, particularly with respect to the management of a municipal law enforcement agency, including, without limitation, the laws of arrest, evidence, prosecution, Civil Service, and Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training certification.  

Knowledge of the principles of accidents and crime investigation and the techniques of interrogation.  Knowledge of the equipment used in law enforcement work, including investigative, communications and record keeping equipment.  Working knowledge of labor relations and the collective bargaining process in the public sector.  

Skills: Strong leadership, management and organizational skills in a law enforcement setting are essential.  Skill in the maintenance and operation of firearms. 

Ability: Ability to plan, assign, and supervise the work of subordinate police personnel.  Ability to assess the efficiency and efficacy of the operation of a bureau, division, or program, make recommendations for change, and effectuate the changes promptly and tactfully.  Ability to apply established procedures to specific issues or special conditions, and amend procedures when appropriate.  Ability to meet with individuals or groups, including members of other law enforcement agencies, express oneself clearly, interpret laws, obtain information through interviews or interrogation and compile reports detailing the essence of what was learned or communicated.  Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.  Ability to comprehend and at all times adhere to all federal, state and local legal authority regulating municipal law enforcement in Massachusetts.  Ability to understand written or oral instructions.  Ability to actively work with the Mayor, other Town officials, and community and related social agencies required.