Description
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The Village of University Park is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Deputy Chief of Police to help lead a modern, community-focused police department, bringing strategic vision, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to public service.
In this key role, you’ll work side-by-side with the Police Chief and command staff to guide department operations, develop personnel, and strengthen community trust, while ensuring the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and safety. You will have the opportunity to shape the direction of a progressive police department in this meaningful leadership role in a collaborative environment with strong municipal support.
This position plays a critical leadership role, with rotational assignments in Administration or Operations, serving as a vital link between the department, village leadership, and the community. In this role you will:
- Assist the Chief of Police in the daily operations of the police department
- Lead, supervise, and develop department personnel
- Establish performance standards and ensure accountability across the department
- Foster a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Oversee operations, staffing, and strategic initiatives
- Ensure compliance with leadership, policies, and training standards,
- Provide command leadership during critical incidents and emergencies and act in the Chief’s absence
- Build strong relationships with community members, officials, and partner agencies
- Guide and implement policy development, training programs, and organizational improvements
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
The starting salary for University Park Deputy Chief of Police is $110,000 - $115,000. The Village provides a comprehensive and generous benefits package to include, but not limited to:
- Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- IMRF Pension
- Retirement Savings Options
- Vacation & Compensatory Time
- Wellness Incentives
- Uniform and Take Home Car Provided
IDEAL CANDIDATE:
The ideal candidate for Deputy Chief of Police is an experienced, collaborative leader who is committed to continuous improvement and transparency. The successful candidate will possess a professional and approachable demeanor, be highly engaged and visible in the community, along with the ability to:
- Provide strong, ethical leadership while assisting the Chief of Police in overseeing daily operations and advancing the department's strategic goals.
- Foster a positive organizational culture through mentorship, accountability, teamwork, and professional development of all employees.
- Demonstrate extensive knowledge of modern law enforcement practices, police administration, and organizational management.
- Champion community-oriented policing through open communication, transparent leadership, and building strong community partnerships with residents, businesses, schools, and community stakeholders.
- Think strategically and proactively, identifying opportunities to improve operations, enhance efficiency, and prepare the department for future challenges.
- Effectively manage complex projects, departmental initiatives, and organizational change while ensuring high-quality service delivery.
- Embrace innovation by leveraging technology, data, and best practices to improve public safety, community engagement, and support department personnel.
- Assist in the development and management of the department's budget.
- Promote open communication, employee engagement, and collaborative labor-management relationships.
- Exercise sound judgment, exceptional problem-solving skills, and confident decision-making in both routine and critical incidents.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with employees, elected officials, community members, and the media through clear written and verbal communication.
- Model the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability while serving as a visible, approachable, and trusted leader within the department and the community.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to the Chief of Police, providing leadership, continuity, and operational support while helping guide the department toward organizational excellence.
UNIVERSITY PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT:
The University Park Police Department's mission is to provide the community with professional police services in partnership with the citizens while respecting the rights and dignity of all persons. We demonstrate our commitment to protecting and serving our citizens while providing the quality of life identified for a safe and growing village.
We educate citizens in a partnership that helps reduce criminal activity while working together to defeat it. Our mission is to bond with our citizens through education, community policing, inside and outside resources, and the dedication to maintaining a good quality of life for the future of University Park.
The department consists of 15 full-time officers; four sergeants and 11 officers. The Fiscal Year Police Budget for 2026/27 is $5.4 million.
ABOUT UNIVERSITY PARK:
University Park is a progressive, diverse, and growing community located just 30 miles south of Downtown Chicago. Originally established in the early 1960s, it was later incorporated as Park Forest South as part of the federal New Communities Act to create thoughtfully planned, inclusive communities across the country.
With the establishment of Governors State University in 1969 and the village's official renaming in 1984, University Park has continued to evolve into a vibrant, growing community where education and public service are paramount.
Today, University Park is home to approximately 8,600 residents and more than 150 businesses supporting nearly 4,500 jobs. University Park offers a unique geographical advantage for businesses and residents. With direct access to Interstate 57 and the Metra Electric line, our village connects seamlessly to the entire Chicago region, making University Park a dynamic hub for growth, innovation, and connection - offering the best in suburban living.
Education is a cornerstone of life in University Park. Residents benefit from the presence of Governors State University within the village, nearby Prairie State College, and the highly regarded Crete-Monee School District 201-U.
University Park features a range of parks and recreational spaces that enhance community life. Craig Park, recently renovated, offers a lighted baseball field, basketball courts, a concession stand, and a playground across six acres. Palmer Park provides 34 acres of scenic paths for walking and jogging, ball fields, and a playground, while Riegel Farm is nearing completion of major upgrades. Pine Lake, spanning 30 acres, offers fishing, picnicking, and tranquil open space. The village is also home to University Park Golf Club, a public 18-hole course known for its elevated tees, rolling fairways, and water features on nine holes. Its 7,000-square-foot clubhouse includes a pro shop and banquet facilities, serving both golfers and the wider community.
Blending its historical roots with a forward-looking vision, University Park is more than just a place to serve and live - it is the perfect place to inspire progress and leave a lasting legacy.
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Requirements
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related field is preferred; may consider an accomodation of an Associate’s degree and related law enforcement training and leadership experience.
- 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 Officers Course, or PERF Senior Management Institute for Police is highly desirable. A combination of comparable education, experience, and training may be considered.
Experience:
- 10 years of law enforcement experience and five years of supervisory experience
- In-depth knowledge of modern police administration and legal standards
- Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills
- Experience with budgeting, HR functions, grant writing, and organizational leadership
- Exceptional interpersonal, negotiation, and public speaking skills
- Proven ability to build relationships with diverse communities and stakeholders
Requirements:
- Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board certification or the ability to obtain a waiver
- Possess a valid driver’s license
- Moderate physical activity with the ability to lift 50 lbs. and work under varying environmental conditions.
- If selected, the candidate must pass an in-depth background check, psychological exam, functional capacity evaluation, medical examination, and drug screen.
How To Apply:
Interested Candidates should apply by 10 a.m. on August 10, 2026, sending:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Contact Information for five (5) professional references
Send all of the items listed above via email to [email protected], [email protected], and please courtesy copy [email protected]
Please include the following subject line: Deputy Chief of Police Recruitment - University Park PD
Questions regarding this opportunity should be directed to: ILACP Executive Director Kenny Winslow by emailing [email protected] or calling 217-523-3765.
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