Notice: If you are seeing this position posted on a job board other than the official Meredith College career posting page, please know that any pay range included is not authorized or approved by Meredith College and may not reflect the actual pay rate for the position.

Serves as a key member of the Campus Police & Security leadership team, responsible for overseeing departmental operations and providing leadership coverage across all shifts as needed to support the safety and security of the Meredith College community. Provides leadership, supervision, and strategic direction in support of law enforcement, security operations, and community engagement.

This position requires a high degree of schedule flexibility and will adjust hours based on operational needs, staffing levels, emergencies, special events, and departmental priorities.

This position plays a critical role in building and shaping a developing campus police and security department, including establishing operational structures, policies, and a culture of professionalism, accountability, and service. The Assistant Chief serves as acting Chief in the absence of the Chief of Police and is classified as essential personnel.

Duties:
- Oversees daily operations of the department, ensuring effective deployment of personnel and resources
- Supervises and evaluates sworn officers and security staff; provides coaching, guidance, and leadership
- Serves as acting Chief of Police in the absence of the Chief
- Exercises independent judgment in responding to incidents, emergencies, and critical situations
- Coordinates and oversees investigations and ensures proper case management and documentation
- Promotes community-oriented policing and maintains a visible presence on campus
- Ensures compliance with federal laws, North Carolina General Statutes, and College policies, including Clery Act requirements
- Assists with recruitment, hiring, training, discipline, and performance management
- Collaborates with campus departments and external law enforcement and emergency response agencies
- Responds to major incidents and provides command-level oversight during emergencies

Department Development & Leadership:
- Assists in building and shaping departmental structure, staffing models, and operational workflows
- Develops and implements policies, procedures, and standard operating guidelines
- Establishes expectations for performance, accountability, and professional conduct
- Evaluates and recommends equipment, technology, and resource needs

Strategic & Administrative Functions:
- Supports long-term planning, goal setting, and implementation of departmental initiatives
- Exercises decision-making authority on operational and personnel matters
- Acts on behalf of the Chief in both routine and critical situations
- Assists with preparation for accreditation and adherence to best practices in campus law enforcement

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
- Knowledge of federal laws, North Carolina General Statutes, and College policies related to law enforcement
- Knowledge of modern policing practices, community engagement strategies, and campus safety principles
- Ability to lead, supervise, and develop personnel in a dynamic environment
- Ability to build and manage teams in a developing or evolving department
- Strong decision-making, problem-solving, and organizational skills
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with diverse populations
- Ability to manage critical incidents and prioritize multiple responsibilities
- Ability to build collaborative relationships with campus stakeholders and external partners
- Commitment to fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, and service

Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice or related field (preferred), or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Minimum of seven (7) years of sworn law enforcement experience
- At least three (3) years of supervisory experience (Sergeant, Lieutenant, or equivalent)
- Experience in campus or higher education law enforcement preferred

Training & Certification Requirements:
- Current certification as a Law Enforcement Officer in the State of North Carolina (BLET
- Advanced Law Enforcement Certification (preferred)
- Completion of required in-service training and annual firearms qualification
- Compliance with North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission requirements
- Instructor or specialized training certifications (preferred)

Working Conditions & Physical Demands:
- This position is not assigned to a fixed schedule. Work hours will vary based on departmental needs and may include daytime, evening, and occasional overnight hours, as well as weekends, extended hours, and emergency call-back
- Work performed in office, vehicle, and outdoor environments under varying conditions
- May be required to remain on duty during emergencies or inclement weather
- Ability to walk, stand, run, climb, and lift up to 50 pounds
- Ability to operate law enforcement equipment and respond to physically demanding situations
- Vision correctable to meet North Carolina law enforcement standards

Required Documents:
- Cover Letter
- Resume