Lieutenant; Administrator II

Job no: 554291
Work type: Management (MPP)
Location: San Diego
Categories: MPP, At-Will, Full Time, Safety, On-site (work in-person at business location)

The San Diego State University Police Department is seeking a dynamic and experienced Police Lieutenant to provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and community-focused policing within a large, complex university environment. Reporting to the Assistant Chief or Captain, the Lieutenant plays a critical role in managing sworn and non-sworn personnel, guiding day‑to‑day law enforcement operations, and advancing public safety initiatives that protect life, property, and the SDSU community.

• Lead and manage police personnel across patrol, investigations, special events, or administrative functions
• Direct law enforcement operations, including crime prevention, investigations, emergency response, and special events
• Supervise sergeants and officers, including staffing, training, and performance evaluation
• Foster strong police‑community relationships through community‑oriented and problem‑solving policing strategies
• Develop, implement, and review policies, procedures, and special projects to ensure legal compliance and operational excellence
• Oversee complex investigations, review reports, and represent the department in court, hearings, and public forums
• Plan and coordinate staffing and security for large‑scale special events, including Mission Valley Stadium operations

At SDSU, public safety is more than a function, it’s a shared commitment to a vibrant, inclusive academic community. As a Police Lieutenant, you’ll join a forward‑thinking department that values professionalism, innovation, and collaboration. You’ll have the opportunity to lead diverse teams, tackle meaningful challenges, and help shape the future of campus policing at one of California’s leading public universities. If you’re a proven leader ready to make an impact where education, community, and public service intersect, this is your next chapter.

• This is a full‑time, at‑will role, offering comprehensive benefits
• Position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation
• This position is approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego

Safety and security is coordinated by University Police, through a force of 42 sworn full‑time police officers, 40 sworn part‑time, and 25 non‑sworn support employees. Our police officers are graduates of the California Peace Officers Standards Training Academy with full arrest powers throughout the state. They undergo continued training to upgrade their skills as well as first aid and CPR. University Police officers are armed.

They conduct foot, vehicular and bicycle patrols on campus and in the adjacent community 24 hours a day. Officers are responsible for reporting and investigating crimes and traffic accidents, enforcing state laws and local ordinances, responding to medical emergencies and all other incidents requiring police assistance.

• Five (5) years of sworn law enforcement experience, including three years at the rank of Sergeant or higher, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the role
• Graduation from a certified California P.O.S.T. academy or equivalent
• Supervisory California P.O.S.T. certificate or equivalent

• Working knowledge of current law enforcement methods and procedures
• Working knowledge of current CA criminal codes and laws
• Effective interpersonal skills to resolve a wide variety of sensitive situations
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including writing clear and comprehensive reports
• Demonstrated ability to think and act effectively in emergency and sensitive situations
• Work involves an element of personal danger and employees must be able to exercise considerable independent judgment and professional knowledge in making decisions regarding the use of deadly force in protecting citizens and themselves without the benefit of immediate supervisory assistance or advice. Ability to work on‑call
• Ability to operate complex…