Natick Police Dept. is accepting applications for its first deputy chief
NATICK — The Police Department is hiring its first deputy police chief.
The town last week posted an advertisement for the new position on its website. And the position, Chief James Hicks said, will be an important one.
“It’ll bring on another level of oversight and structure,” he said.
The deputy police chief position will be a nonunion position, only the second in the department after the chief.
The new position will also be second-highest in rank within the department. Currently, the next highest rank is lieutenant.
“They are all in the union and there are certain things that have to be done administratively that they can’t do, and I need help with that,” said Hicks. “Things get put on the back burner that shouldn’t.”
Job requirements, according to the advertisement, include at least a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) in law enforcement, criminal justice, public administration or a related field. Applicants must have reached a minimum rank of sergeant with a police department.
The job posting lists the salary as a "Grade 5" position, which means the salary range is from $100,000 to $159,500 a year. Hicks said that because the position is nonunion, a contract would be negotiated between the town and the candidate after a selection is made.
Hicks said both in-house and outside candidates are welcome to apply.
The new deputy chief will handle many administrative duties, such as maintaining and improving internal department policies, equipment issues and taking a more in-depth look at internal investigations.
“They will also be working on assuring compliance with police reform,” Hicks said.
The deputy chief will also be in charge of the department when Hicks is not available.
Hicks said resumes are due by Feb. 1, which will be followed by interviews and then approval by the Select Board.
Hicks said he hopes to have the position filled by the middle of March.
Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow Norman Miller on Twitter @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerCrime.
This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Natick MA police announces plans to hire first deputy chief
