CHIEF OF POLICE

The Village of McFarland is seeking a Chief of Police who will be a consistent presence in our community and help ensure that everyone who spends time in McFarland is able to feel safe, comfortable, and at home here. We are looking for a strong and compassionate leader, an invested mentor to current and future officers, and a team player who is open to new ideas, new strategies, and new challenges. 

The McFarland Police Department is a full-time, full-service agency consisting of 21 full-time employees, including chief, lieutenant, three sergeants, two detectives, school resource officer, eleven patrol officers, office manager, and office assistant. The department is housed in a brand new, state-of-the-art Public Safety Center which is the first net-zero public safety building in Wisconsin, and has received acclaim for its overall design and customized sustainability features.

Please review the Police Chief Recruitment Packet for more information.

Position Overview

The Chief of Police is responsible for directing and administering the activities of McFarland’s Police Department including: 

• Supervising the department and directing operations in line with Village and community goals.
• Creating a robust culture of inclusivity and public service. 
• Recommending public policy, service levels, and ordinances to the Village Board and working with the Police and Fire Commission on hiring and disciplinary matters.
• Leading exemplary community policing practices that grow and enhance the reputation of the community as a safe, respectful, and welcoming place for all.
• Supervising crime scenes and investigations, providing back up to other officers, and advising on non-routine investigations.
• Conferring with attorneys and testifying in court as needed.
• Representing the department in public forums and in the press.

This position is appointed by the McFarland Police and Fire Commission (PFC). Review the full position description for complete information.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher.
• Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board certification, or ability to obtain within a year.
• Successful completion of a recognized police executive training program.
• 10+ years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience that demonstrates leadership and command qualities.
• 5+ years of supervisory or administrative experience in upper management positions in a law enforcement agency of a similar or larger size and complexity.
• Any combination of education and experience demonstrating the ability to meet the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Compensation and Benefits

• The salary range for this position goes up to $137,852 per year commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• The Village offers a competitive benefits package which includes participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, health and dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, income continuation insurance, vacation and sick leave, 11 paid holidays, and additional supplemental benefits. Please view the 2025 Benefits Overview for more information.

Application Process

• To apply, please submit a cover letter detailing your supervisory experience and qualifications, along with your resume and completed WILENET application form, to human.resources@mcfarland.wi.gov.
• Deadline to Apply: January 31, 2025

Related Documents

• Village of McFarland Chief of Police Recruitment Packet
• Chief of Police Job Description
• WILENET Application
• 2025 Benefits Overview

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Village is an equal employment opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.