Description
The City of Madras is seeking a Police Chief for this rapidly growing community of 8,200 in the high desert of Central Oregon less than an hour north of Bend. Madras serves as the county seat of Jefferson County and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year.
THE CITY OF MADRAS
Established in 1910, the City of Madras operates under a mayor-council form of government with a 2025 budget of $40 million and a team of 45 FTEs. Departments include Administration, Community Development, Finance, Police, and Public Works. The City is a dynamic organization known for long-range planning, innovative economic development strategies, and progressive development.
THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
The Madras Police Department operates with a budget of $3 million and a staff of 15 FTEs: Police Chief, Records Specialist, Evidence Technician, Detective, two Patrol Sergeants, and nine Patrol Officers. Currently, both a Sergeant and a Patrol Officer position are open. Both commissioned supervisors were promoted from within the agency in the past five years, reflecting the city’s commitment to developing leadership internally. Since 2014, Police and City Hall have shared a modern facility that enhances operational efficiency and collaboration.
WHY APPLY
This is a fantastic opportunity to lead a community-centered police agency in Madras, known as the “Gateway to Central Oregon” and located at the intersection of two major state highways—Highway 97 and Highway 26. As the county seat and most populous city in Jefferson County, Madras has just over 8,000 residents—small enough to be agile, yet large enough to accomplish big things.
The Madras Police Department is a well-managed organization staffed by a young and experienced team of commissioned officers and professional support staff. Department members have a phenomenal can-do culture with a family atmosphere and a strong emphasis on community policing. The City Council and community want what is best for Madras and are very supportive of the police department and all City services, making Madras a welcoming and engaged place to serve. If you’re looking for a friendly, supportive community with a small-town feel—and a workplace of dedicated professionals who strive to deliver excellent in-person police services—this may be the right opportunity for you.
More Information:GMP Consultantsis assisting the City of Madras with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Madras is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is November 30, 2025.
Requirements
View the full position profile, job description, and benefits at gmphr.com.