Assistant Chief, Division of Law Enforcement (C.E.A. B)

About the role

This is a unique opportunity to help lead California's premier law enforcement agency. The Department of Justice Division of Law Enforcement (DLE) is seeking to hire an Assistant Chief who provides leadership; oversees operations of the organization; offers administrative direction, policy guidance, and program direction; and coordinates legislative activities while serving as the liaison with the Legislature.

The Assistant Chief has oversight responsibility for four bureaus: Bureau of Firearms, Bureau of Gambling Control, Bureau of Forensic Services, and Bureau of Investigation. The role acts as the primary liaison with the Attorney General's executive staff and local law enforcement executives in the absence of the Chief. The Assistant Chief ensures the timely processing of materials requiring executive-level approval for the DLE.

It is strongly preferred the selected candidate meet the peace officer requirements under Penal Code 830.1, 830.2, or 830.3, or the equivalent federal or out-of-state law enforcement.

Although the position is designated as statewide, duties require a strong and consistent presence in the Northern California region, including frequent in-person engagement in the Sacramento and Bay Area offices. Candidates selected from outside Northern California should anticipate regular travel to those locations, as well as periodic travel to other Department of Justice offices throughout the state.

Schedule

Flexible schedules and telecommuting options may be available; however, the selected candidate will be expected to report to Department offices on a regular basis.

Pay

Salary range: $12,131.00 - $21,370.00 per month. The Department of Justice has discretion to negotiate salary based on the selected candidate's background and qualifications.

Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary wage reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. The specific rate and hours earned vary by bargaining unit. The actual monetary impact depends on your bargaining unit and tax withholdings.

Benefits

• Work-life balance
• 11 paid holidays
• Flexible paid leave options
• Consistent wage increases
• Pension retirement
• Job stability
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)