Police Chief - (PN: 20045799)

About the Role

Responsible for directing all activities of a comprehensive law enforcement and security program within a behavioral healthcare setting. Ensures the safety of patients, staff, visitors, and property through effective leadership, policy implementation, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Direct all operations of the law enforcement and security programs to maintain a safe and secure environment.
• Develop and implement operating procedures that support organizational goals and legal requirements.
• Enforce and interpret policies, laws, rules, and regulations relevant to law enforcement and healthcare security.
• Review and screen departmental expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Supervise Police Department personnel, including assigning duties, evaluating performance, and ensuring adherence to standards.
• Provide training and professional development to department staff.
• Safeguard property, criminal evidence, and contraband; manage storage and disposal processes in accordance with law.
• Conduct and oversee investigations related to security incidents, policy violations, and criminal activity.
• Establish and maintain collaborative working relationships with internal departments, external agencies, and community partners.
• Attend organizational meetings and represent the Police Department in administrative discussions and operational planning.

Qualifications

• Completion of 20 years active duty as a peace officer per Section 109.78(D) of the revised code, or possession of a certificate of having successfully completed an approved peace officer training program.
• 12 months of training and/or experience in supervisory principles and techniques.
• Valid driver’s license.

Skills

• Collaboration
• Attention to Detail
• Leading Others
• Responsiveness
• Confidentiality

Education

Official transcripts are required for all post‑secondary education, coursework, or degrees listed on the application. Applicants must submit an official transcript before receiving a formal employment offer. Failure to provide transcripts within five (5) business days of the request will result in disqualification. Transcripts printed from the institution’s website will not be accepted. The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health reserves the right to evaluate the academic validity of the degree‑granting institution.

Pay

Hourly position exempt from bargaining units. Pay range: $36.75 – $52.27 per hour (E1 Exempt Pay Range Schedule). New hires start at Step 1 with an opportunity for a pay increase after six months of satisfactory performance and a yearly raise thereafter. Employees who complete five years of total service with the State of Ohio receive an automatic 2.5% longevity supplement, with an additional 0.5% each subsequent year up to a maximum 10% supplement at 20 years of service.

Schedule

Full‑time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (flexible schedule). Unless required by any applicable union contract or the Ohio Revised Code, the position follows the above hours.

Agency Overview

The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) strives to exemplify “The Heart of Hope” for individuals and families affected by mental health and substance use disorders. With over 2,800 employees across six inpatient behavioral health hospitals, Ohio Pharmacy Services, Ohio’s prison systems, and a central office in Columbus, DBH values service‑oriented, collaborative, value‑driven, and innovative approaches. DBH is an Ohio Recovery Friendly Workplace, fostering an inclusive, stigma‑free environment that supports employee well‑being, second‑chance hiring, and recovery‑informed policies.