"Lieutenant (Administrator II)"

Lieutenant (Administrator II)

Job No: 554291

Work Type: Management (MPP)

Locations: Southern California: San Diego

Categories: Bargaining Unit: MPP, Appointment Type: At-Will, Time Basis: Full Time, Job Search Category/Discipline: Safety, Workplace Type (Exclude Inst Fac): On-site (work in-person at business location)

The San Diego State University Police Department is seeking a dynamic and experienced Police Lieutenant to provide strategic leadership, operational oversight, and community-focused policing within a large, complex university environment. Reporting to the Assistant Chief or Captain, the Lieutenant plays a critical role in managing sworn and non-sworn personnel, guiding day-to-day law enforcement operations, and advancing public safety initiatives that protect life, property, and the SDSU community. This role offers the opportunity to lead with purpose, shape modern policing practices, and make a lasting impact on campus and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage police personnel across patrol, investigations, special events, or administrative functions
• Direct law enforcement operations, including crime prevention, investigations, emergency response, and special events
• Supervise sergeants and officers, including staffing, training, and performance evaluation.
• Foster strong police-community relationships through community-oriented and problem-solving policing strategies
• Develop, implement, and review policies, procedures, and special projects to ensure legal compliance and operational excellence
• Oversee complex investigations, review reports, and represent the department in court, hearings, and public forums
• Plan and coordinate staffing and security for large-scale special events, including Mission Valley Stadium operations

Why Join Us?

At SDSU, public safety is more than a function, it's a shared commitment to a vibrant, inclusive academic community. As a Police Lieutenant, you'll join a forward-thinking department that values professionalism, innovation, and collaboration. You'll have the opportunity to lead diverse teams, tackle meaningful challenges, and help shape the future of campus policing at one of California's leading public universities. If you're a proven leader ready to make an impact where education, community, and public service intersect, this is your next chapter.

Position Information

• This is a full-time, at-will role, offering comprehensive benefits.
• Position is designated exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• This position is approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego.

Department Summary

Safety and security is coordinated by University Police, through a force of 42 sworn full-time police officers, 40 sworn part-time, and 25 non-sworn support employees. Our police officers are graduates of the California Peace Officers Standards Training Academy with full arrest powers throughout the state. They undergo continued training to upgrade their skills as well as first aid and CPR. University Police officers are armed. They conduct foot, vehicular and bicycle patrols on campus and in the adjacent community 24 hours a day. Officers are responsible for reporting and investigating crimes and traffic accidents, enforcing state laws and local ordinances, responding to medical emergencies and all other incidents requiring police assistance.

For more information regarding the University Police Department, click here.

Education and Experience

• Five (5) years of sworn law enforcement experience, including three years at the rank of Sergeant or higher, or a combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the
• Graduation from a certified California P.O.S.T. academy or equivalent
• Supervisory California P.O.S.T. certificate or equivalent

Key Qualifications

• Working knowledge of current law enforcement methods and procedures.
• Working knowledge of current CA criminal codes and laws.
• Effective interpersonal skills to resolve a wide variety of sensitive situations.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including writing clear and comprehensive reports.
• Demonstrated ability to think and act effectively in emergency and sensitive situations.
• Work involves an element of personal danger and employees must be able to exercise considerable independent judgment and professional knowledge in making decisions regarding the use of deadly force in protecting citizens and themselves without the benefit of immediate supervisory assistance or advice. Ability to work on-call.
• Ability to operate complex digital media storage systems as well as electronic forms of emergency notification, websites, etc.

License and Certifications Required

• Possession of a Class C or higher California driver's license at the time of appointment and satisfactory driving record is required.
• Possession of a Supervisory Certificate issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

Compensation and Benefits

At San Diego State University, we value our team members and offer a competitive salary that reflects your qualifications and experience. But that's just the beginning! Our exceptional benefits package is designed to support your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Leave Benefits: Enjoy 15 paid holidays, 24 vacation days, and 12 sick days per year.
• Retirement Security: Benefit from a CalPERS defined benefit pension plan, with reciprocity with the UC Retirement Plan, plus retiree healthcare benefits.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Access a variety of health, dental, and vision plans at no or low cost to you.
• Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of the California State University system fee reduction program for yourself or a qualified dependent.
• Voluntary Benefits: Opt into additional benefits like Auto & Home Insurance, Life and Disability Insurances, a Legal Plan, Pet Insurance, and the ScholarShare 529 Plan for college savings.

The expected hiring salary for this position ranges from $158,000 to $166,716 annually.

Supplemental Information
Apply by February 2, 2026 to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on an as-needed basis, and the position will remain open until filled.