Description
The City of Yuma, CO is seeking law enforcement professionals to apply for the Chief of Police. To view full job posting, go to www.KRW-Associates.com/open-positions.
The City & Surrounding Community- The City of Yuma, CO (pop. 3,500), is an inviting, safe and growing community located in northeastern Colorado, at the intersection of US Highway 34 and State Highway 59, and 142 miles east of Denver. Incorporated in 1887 and named after Native American Yuma, the City occupies one square mile in western Yuma County (pop. 10,050) and is just 40 miles from both the Kansas and Nebraska borders. Yuma has long been home to hardworking farmers and ranchers and other agri-business professionals. It is surrounded by cattle ranches, and dryland and irrigated farming operations. Residents are also employed in other sectors, such as government, health care, education and manufacturing, all of which drive the local economy.
Yuma enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually and has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and fairly mild winters. In this beautiful climate, it’s comfortable to enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Each fall and winter the Yuma area is especially popular with hunters who enjoy pheasant hunting.
Residents take pride in their community. Yuma’s downtown area is home to shops, cafes and other small businesses. Yuma School District-1, home of the “Outlaws”, serves nearly 900 students at its four public schools (Pre-K - 12th grade) and is a hub for the community through its sports and activities.
Other key community resources and amenities include a Community Center, the Yuma District Hospital & Clinic, the Yuma Municipal Airport, a home-town newspaper-the Yuma Pioneer, 13 churches/places of worship, and three municipal public parks. Locals and visitors also enjoy the Indian Hills Golf Club, a nine-hole public golf course which is managed by the High Plains Recreation Association. Yuma is a tight-knit proud community where “small-town charm meets big community spirit.” To learn more, go to: Home | City of Yuma and Home - Yuma CO Chamber of Commerce.
The Position- The City of Yuma Colorado is seeking a forward-thinking, initiative-taking, and experienced law enforcement professional to serve as the new Chief of Police. The Chief of Police is appointed by the Yuma City Council and provides leadership to (currently) eight officers and is responsible for the protection of lives and property in the city through the supervision of law enforcement functions.
The Chief of Police is a “working Chief” and will patrol as needed. The Chief plans, organizes, coordinates, and directs the city’s comprehensive law enforcement services, including patrol, traffic enforcement, investigations, code enforcement, and administrative support services. The. Chief fosters cooperative working relationships with citizen groups and other agencies on law enforcement matters and performs other related work as assigned.
The Department- The police department is staffed with eight full-time sworn officers in addition to the Department Chief. Staff include one Sergeant/Investigator, two Corporals, one School Resource Officer (SRO), and four Officers. Non-sworn staff include one Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) and one Administrative Assistant who also serves as the Court Clerk.
The Police Department provides 24/7 law enforcement service. There are mutual aid agreements with the sheriff’s office and other surrounding communities. Dispatch services are provided by the Washington/Yuma Combined Communications Center (W-Y Comm
Requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- A bachelor’s degree in police or public administration, criminal justice or a related field.
- At least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in police administration as a sworn police officer, with at least five (5) years of experience in a supervisor/management role with substantial public interaction.
- Attendance at the FBI National Academy, PERF-SMIP, Northwestern School of Police Staff & Command or a similar leadership program is a plus.
- Colorado POST certified or eligible to obtain POST certification within six (6) months of hire.
- Within 30 days after employment, must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License and be First Aid and CPR certified.
- Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience, which provides the individual with the required knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the job may be considered.
Compensation & Benefits- Salary Range: $100,000—$110,000- Paid time off and 10 paid holidays, Health Insurance, (Employee portion paid by the City); Retirement Plan– Statewide Defined Benefit Plan– CO Fire & Police Pension Association; (Employee contribution rate = 12% of base salary); Death and Disability Plan– CO Fire & Police Pension Association (FPPA) – (Employee contribution rate = 4% of base salary); Flexible Benefit Plans– pretax contribution for qualifying Medical and Dependent Care expenses; Voluntary Supplemental Insurance is available for purchase through Colonial Life, MASA and AFLAC; Voluntary Dental and Vision Insurance is also available for purchase. Additional benefits include a cell phone, a take-home vehicle, a gym membership, and all duty equipment.
The Ideal Candidate
1. A leader who is ethical and has a strong character. One who understands the importance of communication and relationship building both within the department and in the community and appreciates the small-town rural lifestyle.
2. A leader who Is eager to embrace the City of Yuma and be visible in the community.
3. A leader who demonstrates superior communication skills; is approachable, accessible and willing to listen.
4. A leader who serves as the face of the organization and understands the importance of the public’s perception of the police department personnel.
5. Is supportive and encourages the police department’s efforts to engage with the local youth.
6. A humble leader who supports the officers and listens to their concerns and suggestions.
7. A visionary leader who has an appreciation for and understanding of small-town values, the agricultural industry, the local rural setting and culture, and its inter-relationship and delicate balance with economic development.
8. Holds him/herself accountable and is comfortable and willing to hold others accountable.
9. A mentor who helps develop a career path for proficient officers and understands the importance of a department succession plan.
10. A team player both within the police department and as part of the City’s leadership team.
11. Understands the budget process and can manage the police department budget.
12. Is eager to serve as working chief; proficiently performs all officer duties and covers calls, if necessary.
13. Has a working knowledge of Federal law, Colorado state statutes, law enforcement best practices and will quickly learn Yuma city ordinances.
14. Ensures that officers receive proper training initially and on an on-going basis, for the safety and protection of the community, the officers, the city and the police department.
Challenges & Opportunities
1. With existing staff, it can be a challenge to cover 24-hour shifts with officers taking paid time off (PTO) and attending training.
2. Opportunity to lead a department in a growing city.
3. Budget constraints and funding strategies are a challenge. There are a variety of grant opportunities for supplemental funding sources.
4. Community engagement and public trust – Build strong relationships with residents and stakeholders.
Apply Online- Go to: www.KRW-Associates.com/open-positions. Provide your cover letter, resume and six professional references. Deadline: January 15, 2026, 5:00 PM Mountain Time.
KRW Associates LLC is assisting the City of Yuma, CO with this search. Questions should be directed to info@KRW-Associates.com or by phone to KRW Associates Managing Partner Lynn Johnson | 303-435-4138 or KRW Senior Associate Gina McGrail | 303-249-9572.
The City of Yuma, CO is an equal opportunity employer.
