THOMASTON — Last week, the Town of Thomaston released a job application for the position of Chief of Police. Current Police Chief Timothy Hoppe’s last day will be July 5, 2024, according to Town Manager Kara George. The particular date allows Hoppe to participate in one more Fourth of July event in the role of Chief. 

For at least a year, Hoppe has been hinting at a pending retirement, but only recently specified a date.

The position is being advertised both internally and externally with a closing date of June 17, and the Town will be putting together an interview board in the coming weeks to assist with the hiring process.

“Are you a skilled leader with a passion for serving and protecting communities?” says the job ad. “The Town of Thomaston, Maine, is searching for a dynamic individual to fill the role of Police Chief. This is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in our community and lead a dedicated team of law enforcement professionals.”

Guided by a unique schedule style that Hoppe encouraged for Thomaston in 2022, officers work flexible 48-hour shifts with 12 hour downtime built in, allowing some personnel upwards of five days off in a row while still maintaining a full-time salary.

Hoppe, himself, has been working two non-consecutive 24-hour shifts during the regular workweek in the years since residents approved the new work style, pay rate, and overnight sleeping facilities, which then permitted Hoppe to fill his roster.

The deadline for aspiring Thomaston Police Chiefs is June 17, 2024. 

View the job advertisement below:

Are you a skilled leader with a passion for serving and protecting communities? The Town of Thomaston, Maine, is searching for a dynamic individual to fill the role of Police Chief. This is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in our community and lead a dedicated team of law enforcement professionals.

Position Overview:

As Police Chief, you will be responsible for the management and oversight of all police department services and activities. This includes law enforcement, crime prevention, and community engagement initiatives. You will lead by example, ensuring the safety and security of our residents while fostering positive relationships with other departments, officials, and the public.

Exciting New Schedule:

Join our proactive community police department that offers a whole new schedule for officers, providing a healthy work-life balance. Officers, including the Police Chief work flexible 48-hour shifts with 12 hours of built-in rest time and enjoy 5 days off every work week.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage all department services and activities, including patrol duties and emergency response.

• Provide leadership and supervision to department staff, promoting professional development and maintaining high standards of performance.

• Oversee budget preparation and fiscal management, ensuring responsible allocation of resources.

• Foster positive relationships with the community through effective communication and engagement efforts.

• Prepare regular reports for town management, highlighting departmental performance and progress.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and departmental policies.

Qualifications:

• An associate degree in criminal justice, public administration, or related field preferred.

• Graduate of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy or eligibility for waiver.

• Eight or more years of law enforcement experience, with at least five years in a supervisory role.

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to make effective decisions under pressure and analyze complex situations.

• Valid Maine motor vehicle operator's license and successful completion of background check.

Benefits:

In addition to a competitive salary, the Town of Thomaston offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Paid time off

• Family health insurance

• MainePERS 3C Retirement plan

• Training opportunities

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, please submit a job application, cover letter, resume, and any other relevant documents to the Town Manager at:

Email: kgeorge@thomastonmaine.gov or mail to:

Thomaston Municipal Building

13 Valley Street

Thomaston, ME 04861

The application deadline is Monday, June 17, 2024.

The Town of Thomaston is an equal opportunity employer.