Job Advertisement: Chief of Police (Appointed)
10/14/2025
The Village of Bonita is seeking a highly qualified, experienced, and dedicated law enforcement professional for the position of Chief of Police. The Chief is appointed by the Mayor and Board of Aldermen and serves as the administrative and commanding officer of the Bonita Police Department. This is a crucial leadership role responsible for planning, organizing, directing, and evaluating all police services, maintaining public safety, and fostering positive community relations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, coordinate, and manage all police operations for the Village of Bonita.
- Direct and supervise all departmental personnel, including recruitment, training, and performance evaluation.
- Oversee and manage the departmental budget and resources efficiently.
- Ensure rigorous enforcement of all federal, state, and municipal laws and ordinances.
- Coordinate activities with municipal leadership and external law enforcement agencies.
- Act as the primary representative of the Police Department to the community and governing authority.
Minimum Mandatory Qualifications (Louisiana Law):
To be considered for this appointed position, candidates must meet the following statutory requirements (La. R.S. 33:2345):
- Law Enforcement Experience: Possess not less than five (5) years of full-time law enforcement experience.
- P.O.S.T. Certification: Must have successfully completed a certified training program approved by the Louisiana Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council. (Proof of active P.O.S.T. certification is mandatory.)
Required General Qualifications:
- U.S. Citizen.
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Possession of a current, valid Louisiana Driver's License at the time of appointment.
- Must be able to pass comprehensive background investigation, physical examination, and drug screening.
- Must not have been convicted of a felony or be under indictment on a felony charge (until relief from the disabilities is granted).
Highly Desired Qualifications:
- Prior experience in a command or supervisory capacity within a law enforcement agency (e.g., Sergeant, Lieutenant, or above).
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Demonstrated knowledge of municipal budgeting, grant writing, and resource management.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with a proven ability to build trust and rapport with the community and local government.
How to Apply:
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit the following materials:
- Application for employment
- A professional cover letter.
- A detailed resume outlining all law enforcement experience.
- Copies of relevant certifications, including Louisiana P.O.S.T. certification.
Please submit your application packet to:
Office of the Mayor/Village of Bonita
ATTN: Chief of Police Search Committee
15446 Bonita Avenue
P. O. Box 278
Bonita, LA 71223
Or via email to: villageofbonita1@ne-tel.net
The Village of Bonita is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all qualified individuals to apply.