Police Chief
This position is open to both internal and external applicants.

The City of Austin is seeking a forward‑thinking, collaborative leader to serve as Chief of Police. Austin is a community of 23,500 located along Interstate 90, approximately 90 miles south of the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro area. The department includes 38.5 employees and operates with a budget of $6.8 million.

2025 Salary Range (Exempt Position)

  • Minimum          $52.79/Hr ($109,803/yr)
  • Midpoint           $64.10/Hr ($133,328/yr)
  • Maximum         $75.41/Hr ($156,852/yr)

The 2026 salary range has not yet been established.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES (summary)

A full job description is available in the application packet or on the City’s website. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education

  • Bachelor’s degree in police administration, law enforcement, criminal justice, or related field

Other

  • Demonstrated leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Proven ability to improve departmental effectiveness and operational efficiency
  • Experience in budget management and personnel administration
  • Minimum of 7 years law enforcement experience
  • 2–5 years at the rank of Sergeant or higher
  • Eligible for licensure by the Minnesota POST Board
  • Ability to successfully complete physical and psychological evaluations
  • Possession of a valid Minnesota Driver’s License

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience working in a supervisory or command role within a similarly sized or larger agency
  • Experience developing or implementing strategic plans, policies, or organizational improvements
  • Background in emergency management, incident command, or multi‑agency coordination

How to Apply

Applications available at City Clerk’s Office City Hall, 500 4th Avenue NE, Austin, MN  55912 or Online: https://www.ci.austin.mn.us/police-chief

Job Application & Supplemental Questionnaire may be emailed to HR@ci.austin.mn.us or mailed/dropped off at City Hall, 500 4th Avenue NE, Austin, MN 55912

Required Application Documents Needed to Be Considered for this Position
Job Application
Conviction Supplement
Supplemental Questionnaire

Information Only; Do not Return
Job Description

Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 2026; 11:59 pm

Supplemental Information – Tentative Recruitment Timeline

  • First-Round Interviews: Tentatively scheduled for April 13–17, 2026
  • Second-Round Interviews: Tentatively scheduled for April 20–24, 2026
  • Target Start Date: June 15–22, 2026

CONTACT
For questions or additional information, please reach out to Trish Wiechmann at twiechma@ci.austin.mn.us or (507) 437-9942

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY