The City of Tukwila has launched a national search for its next police chief, with applications due by Sept. 18, according to recruitment information from Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc.
The position offers a salary range of $247,308 to $274,224 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.
The first review of applications is scheduled for Sept. 10, and candidates are encouraged to apply early.
As we previously reported, the position opened up after former chief Eric Drever retired on May 1, 2026. Former deputy chief Eric Lund has been serving as interim chief since.
Tukwila has just over 23,000 residents but serves as a major South King County employment, commerce, transportation and recreation hub. The city has more than 40,000 jobs and a daytime population of about 150,000, creating public safety demands more commonly associated with a larger urban city, according to the recruitment notice.
The next chief will lead a full service police department with a $29.5 million budget, 77 authorized commissioned officers and 23 professional staff members.
Key priorities for the next chief include strengthening organizational culture and accountability, aligning staffing and resources with service demands, advancing community policing, developing the workforce and maintaining responsive public safety services.
The city is seeking a visible, approachable and authentic leader who can serve Tukwila’s highly diverse community, communicate openly, set clear expectations and lead with integrity, emotional intelligence and sound judgment, according to the recruitment notice.
The chief will work with the mayor, City Council, executive leadership, labor representatives, community stakeholders and regional partners to strengthen public trust and organizational performance. The chief also will serve as a trusted adviser to city leadership and provide leadership during critical incidents and organizational change.
Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree and 12 years of policing experience, including at least three years in a command level position, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. A master’s degree is preferred.
Candidates also must possess, or be able to obtain, Washington state peace officer certification within six months of employment.
Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, résumé and list of professional references to apply@publicsectorsearch.com. The recruitment brochure is available at publicsectorsearch.com/recruitments/tukwila-wa.
Inquiries may be directed to Gary Peterson, retired police chief, at Public Sector Search & Consulting, Inc., at 916-789-9990 or gary@publicsecgtorsearch.com.
