Police Captain – San Leandro

Overview

The Police Captain is responsible for maintaining the high standards necessary for the efficient, ethical, and professional operation of the Police Department. This position provides oversight of investigations involving police personnel and requires a strong commitment to integrity, accountability, and courageous decision-making. The ideal candidate values diversity and inclusion and demonstrates a proven history of meaningful community engagement within a community representing a wide range of cultures and experiences.

The role involves developing, implementing, and interpreting departmental policies, rules, regulations, programs, orders, and duty assignments to ensure consistent and effective operations. Responsibilities also include managing, preparing, and monitoring Police Department budget accounts; applying for and administering State and Federal grants; and overseeing purchasing documents, planning materials, staff reports, and other records related to police operations.

Serving as a key liaison, this position works closely with other City departments, community members, the media, and other law enforcement agencies. The role provides information to the public, speaks before community groups, responds to public inquiries, and represents the department at community functions. It also assists with community crime prevention programs and delivers public education on policing skills, strategies, and public safety initiatives.

Additionally, this position directs the operations of the Bureau of Services, which includes oversight of the Records Unit, the Dispatch Center, and the Professional Standards Unit. The position may also be assigned to oversee the Operations Bureau. The Police Captain analyzes and makes recommendations regarding operating policies and procedures, the impact of new or amended laws, personnel transfers, equipment availability and use, and staffing and labor allocation.

The role includes supervising and counseling staff, preparing performance evaluations, recommending training opportunities to enhance job performance, and, when necessary, serving as Acting Police Chief to ensure continuity of leadership.

The selected candidate will demonstrate strong strategic thinking skills and the ability to respond effectively during emergency situations. They will possess extensive knowledge of modern California law enforcement practices and procedures, along with a deep understanding of community needs and a proactive approach to addressing them. The candidate will exhibit exceptional leadership and sound decision-making abilities, with the capacity to perform effectively under pressure.

They will be able to identify and embrace emerging technologies to promote streamlined processes and enhanced services Citywide.

In addition, candidates who thrive in this role will show a genuine commitment to coaching, mentoring, and developing staff, supported by clear and effective verbal and written communication skills. Strong interpersonal abilities are essential, including the capacity to listen attentively, de-escalate challenging situations, and build positive, collaborative relationships. A demonstrated commitment to community-oriented policing and public safety is fundamental to success in this role.

Ideal candidates will have at least one year of experience as a sworn Police Lieutenant with any California agency, or five years of work experience as a Police Sergeant in the City of San Leandro. Relevant higher education, such as a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in criminal justice, police science, public administration, or a closely related field is highly desired.

Possession of a valid advanced California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certificate is required. Any combination of experience and education that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to be successful in the position will be considered.