The City of Fort Smith, Arkansas, is seeking a new Police Chief. Fort Smith is located on the Arkansas River at the Arkansas-Oklahoma border, “where the New South meets the Old West.” Fort Smith is the second largest city in the state with a population of just over 89,000. The City employs over 1,000 staff members and has an FY2019 operating budget of $131 million.

The Fort Smith Police Department is made up of 164 sworn officers and 54 non-sworn staff members. The department is organized into three divisions: the Administrative Services Division, the Patrol Division, and the Criminal Investigations Division. Each division is led by a Deputy Chief who reports to the Police Chief. The Police Chief functions with wide latitude under the administrative direction of the City Administrator.

The chosen candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related area with at least 15 years of experience in law enforcement and seven years of supervisory and command experience. Graduation from the FBI National Academy is preferred. The City of Fort Smith is looking for qualified candidates who have continued their educational training with an emphasis on leadership. The salary for this position is up to $111,904, depending on qualifications and experience, plus a $450/ month car allowance.