June 1, 2026

Job Opening – Police Chief

City of Southside: Chief of Police Job Announcement

Position Title: Chief of Police Department: Southside Police Department

Reports To: Public Safety Director and Mayor Status: Full-Time

Position Overview

The City of Southside seeks a visionary and dedicated law enforcement professional to serve as the Chief of Police. This executive-level position is responsible for the overall administration and operation of the Southside Police Department, which serves a population of approximately 10,000 residents with a team of sworn and civilian employees. The Chief will lead the department in maintaining its reputation as one of the safest cities in Alabama while driving innovation in public safety technology and training.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement departmental goals, policies, and procedures to ensure effective service delivery.
  • Administration: Manage the annual budget, oversee fiscal resources, and submit budget requests to the City Council.
  • Personnel Management: Directly supervise all departmental staff, manage recruitment, conducting performance appraisals, and overseeing training and professional development.
  • Public Relations: Serve as a key liaison to residents, businesses, and partner agencies, and represent the department at City Council meetings and public functions.
  • Operational Oversight: Monitor morale, resolve internal grievances, and ensure the strict enforcement of all state and local laws.
  • Must be able to work with all levels of government agencies throughout the State of Alabama.

Reporting Structure

The Chief of Police reports directly to the Public Safety Director for operational guidance and the mayor for overall performance evaluation.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field (preferred).
  • Experience: At least ten (10) years of law enforcement experience with significant supervisory and administrative experience (typically at the rank of Lieutenant or higher).
  • Certification: Must possess and maintain current Alabama Peace Officer Standards and Training (APOSTC) certification.
  • Professional Training: Completion or currently enrolled in the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP) Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program.

Compensation & Benefits

The City of Southside offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and formal application to the city clerk at 2255 Hwy 77 Southside, AL 35907 or email cityclerk@cityofsouthside.com.