PUBLIC SAFETY DIRECTOR

Salary Range: $199,767 – $260,651

SAVE THE DATE

In-person interviews will take place on Wednesday, August 19, 2026

The Opportunity

Malibu has experienced a series of natural disasters and fires in recent years. Through committed leadership and regional coordination, the City is making significant investments in its infrastructure, advancing road repairs, utilities, public facilities, coastal infrastructure, sewer system expansion, power grid improvements, and open space management through its Capital Improvement Program to build a more resilient community. Newly appointed, City Manager Irvin invites eligible candidates who are interested in leading transformative projects and initiatives towards building a resilient Malibu.

The Public Safety Director serves as a key member of the executive leadership team and assists the City Manager in advancing City Council priorities, coordinating major initiatives, representing the City Manager with external partners, and ensuring effective delivery of high-priority municipal services and projects. This position is primarily focused on overseeing emergency management, wildfire preparedness, homelessness initiatives, contracted police services, code enforcement, parking enforcement and other community safety programs while serving as a key advisor to the City Manager and City Council.

The Ideal Candidate

The Public Safety Director position is a visionary, collaborative, and highly credible public sector leader with extensive experience in emergency management, public safety administration, code enforcement, community risk reduction, and interagency coordination. This individual possesses exceptional leadership skills, political acumen, and the ability to build strong partnerships with elected officials, public safety agencies, community organizations, and residents to advance the City's commitment to safety, preparedness, and quality of life.

The City seeks a strategic thinker who serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership and elected officials, capable of providing thoughtful recommendations, developing innovative solutions, and implementing programs that enhance community safety, resilience, and public confidence.

The Position & Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess a bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, Public Safety, or a closely related field, along with substantial progressively responsible experience in public safety, emergency management, enforcement operations, fire services, or related disciplines. Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of professional experience, including at least three years in a leadership or management capacity overseeing programs, staff, budgets, and complex operations.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated experience in emergency preparedness and response, Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activation and management, and/or Incident Command System (ICS) operations. A strong understanding of public sector administration, interagency coordination, emergency response protocols, and public safety program management is essential.

Candidates must possess a valid California driver license and maintain an acceptable driving record. Candidates are also required to complete the Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) training and FEMA Incident Command System (ICS) 100 and 200 courses, and IS-700 and IS-800 courses, or obtain these certifications within a timeframe specified by the City.

Recruitment Process

To be considered for this outstanding opportunity, apply online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/malibucity. Applicants must submit a complete employment application, cover letter, and resume by the final filing deadline of July 31, 2026. Following a review of the application materials, the most qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the examination and selection process. Final appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation and all required pre-employment screenings and requirements.

Compensation and Benefits
Salary will be commensurate with qualifications. The salary range is $199,767 - $260,651. The City also offers an attractive benefit package.

Interview Process