TOWN OF WELLS, MAINE
Employment Opportunity
Police Chief
Police Department
Description
The Town of Wells is seeking a progressive, collaborative, and community-centered law enforcement professional to serve as its next Chief of Police. This is a rare opportunity to lead a dedicated department in one of Maine's most desirable communities — and to shape the future of public safety in Wells for years to come.
The Chief of Police is the department's chief administrator and sworn senior officer, reporting directly to the Town Manager. The Chief is responsible for the full spectrum of police administration: strategic planning, budget and capital management, personnel leadership, labor relations, community policing, emergency management, technology oversight, and active partnership with Town government, regional law enforcement agencies, and the community. The Chief serves as a key member of the Town's senior management team and is expected to be a visible, engaged, and trusted presence in Wells’ civic life. The successful candidate will bring both the administrative depth to manage a professional department and the personal qualities to earn the trust of a community that takes its relationship with its police department seriously.
Position Requirements
- A bachelor's degree in public administration, criminal justice, organizational development, human resources, or a closely related field. A master's degree is preferred.
- A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible law enforcement experience, including at least five (5) years in supervisory, command, or senior administrative positions.
- Demonstrated experience in municipal budget development and fiscal management; personnel management and labor relations; strategic or organizational planning; and community policing program development.
- Experience with use-of-force policy development and accountability; body-worn camera and law enforcement technology administration; and data-driven policing practices.
- Knowledge of emergency management principles (NIMS/ICS); current certification or the ability to obtain it within one year of appointment.
- Must hold and maintain active certification as a full-time law enforcement officer in Maine or have graduated from the Maine Criminal Justice Academy Basic School, been waived, or be eligible for such a waiver.
- Valid Maine driver's license.
Must reside within, or be willing to relocate to, reasonable proximity to Wells sufficient for timely emergency response.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Maine Criminal Justice Academy Executive Certificate.
- Graduation from the FBI National Academy, New England School of Police Staff and Command, Senior Management Institute for Police, or an equivalent senior leadership program.
- Prior experience in a coastal, tourist-economy, or seasonally variable law enforcement environment.
- Experience with law enforcement accreditation (CALEA or MLEAP).
Compensation & Benefits
The Town of Wells offers a competitive compensation package within the pay range of $110,000 - $150,000/year, commensurate with qualifications and experience. Salary is negotiable and commensurate with experience. The position is covered by an employment agreement and includes participation in the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), health and dental/vision insurance, and other benefits consistent with Town policy. Additional details will be provided to candidates advancing in the process.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials as a single PDF to employment@wellstown.org no later than July 31, 2026.
- A completed Town of Wells application.
- A cover letter (not to exceed two pages) describing your interest in the position, your vision for community-centered policing in Wells, and how your background has prepared you for this role.
- A current résumé.
- Contact information for five professional references, at least three of whom have direct knowledge of your law enforcement leadership experience. References will not be contacted without prior notice to the candidate.
Candidates may also mail application materials to the Labor and Employee Relations Department at 208 Sanford Road, Wells ME, 04090.
View the complete job description and employment application on the Town’s Website (Jobs • Wells, ME • CivicEngage)
Candidates are encouraged to apply promptly. The position will remain open until filled; however, the Town reserves the right to close the recruitment at any time after the stated deadline.
Questions regarding the position may be directed to Michael Pardue, Town Manager, at
(207)646-5113 or mpardue@wellstown.org
The Town of Wells is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, age, and any other characteristics protected by law.