Career Options

Many police chiefs require employment contracts. Applicants offered employment as a police officer are required to sign an employment contract which contains a reimbursement clause. This contract states that in the event the applicant's employment with the Police Department ceases due to any cause other than death, or disability retirement, within 24 months following completion of Field Training, the applicant agrees to reimburse the given Police Department for all the expenses incurred in connection with the applicant's selection, hiring and training.

It must be pointed out that as the years go by, the different Police Chiefs are offered different contracts with varying parameters, term and salary. For example, East Windsor Police Chief Edward J. DeMarco Jr received a 10 year contract that will expire in 2015, carrying significant long-term financial obligations with it. Salaries and fringe benefits will exceed $2 million through 2015. This employment contract sparked huge debates in the media with critics questioning if the Police Commission has the authority to enter into such contracts and whether public hearings should have been held.

Candidates appointed to the position of police officer will sign an employment contract for three years from the date of appointment as a sworn officer and abide by a reimbursement schedule should resignation occur before the three year period is concluded. There is an 18 month probationary period before becoming permanent employees. During the probationary period a candidate may be terminated from his/her position without cause.

To receive a Police Chief employment contract offer, certain requirements must be met. First of all, the Police Chief reports to the City Manager. The successful candidate must have the ability to create and articulate a clear vision for the Durham Police Department which is consistent with the goals and objectives set by the City Council and the City Manager. The successful candidate will be a skilled professional with a strong management background, impeccable integrity, ethics, and the ability to provide effective leadership.

The Police Chief has a considerable amount of contact with the City administration, citizens, and customers. This is a highly visible position. The individual selected for the position must feel comfortable in communicating and interacting with all levels of the organization as well as the general public and the media. The position will require the individual to make presentations, have in depth discussions, and make sound, well researched recommendations to the City administration, departmental staff, and the general public on law enforcement issues.

Career Options |