Title:  Motor Vehicle Captain

Application Deadline Date:  05/31/2026
Req ID:  55033
Department:  Transportation Agency
Location: 

Montpelier, VT, US

Position Type:  Permanent
Schedule Type:  Full Time
Minimum Salary:  $42.26
Maximum Salary:  $66.57

Overview

The Motor Vehicle Captain (Chief Inspector) serves as a critical command-level leader within the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, directing the Enforcement & Safety Division. This role provides strategic oversight for three primary branches: the Investigations Unit, the Education Unit, and the Business Services Unit. The Captain manages a multi-disciplinary workforce comprising sworn Level III Motor Vehicle Inspectors, non-sworn Field Inspectors, and administrative staff. Key operational mandates include spearheading driver and vehicle safety education, executing criminal and regulatory enforcement, and ensuring the technical integrity of the Automated Vehicle Inspection Program (AVIP).


Beyond traditional field operations, the position entails significant economic responsibility, overseeing the regulatory processing of automotive sales through licensed dealerships. Given the complexity of these duties, candidates must demonstrate a distinguished investigative pedigree and proven leadership experience. Eligibility is strictly limited to applicants who hold Vermont Criminal Justice Council (VCJC) Level III certification and possess extensive supervisory experience in a law enforcement capacity.


The Captain serves as a subject matter expert and legislative liaison, providing official testimony to state government committees and legislative bodies regarding motor vehicle laws, public safety policy, and departmental operations.

Who May Apply

This position, Motor Vehicle Captain (#55033), is open to all State employees and external applicants.
If you would like more information about this position, please contact Wade Cochran at wade.cochran@vermont.gov.
Resumes will not be accepted via e-mail. You must apply online to be considered.
 
In accordance with Title 23, Section 102(d), an applicant must agree to be finger-printed and pass a background investigation to be eligible for this position. The background investigation may include criminal, financial and traffic records checks. Hiring managers will notify applicants who are in the final stage of the interview process of the finger-printing and background check requirement, to which an applicant must agree to be deemed eligible for this position. Applicants will have the right to withdraw their applications before finger-printing and/or a background investigation is conducted. 

Environmental Factors

The Incumbent is a Vermont certified full-time law enforcement officer and is armed and drives a fully equipped police type vehicle.  Work is performed primarily in a normal office setting, but frequent state-wide travel can be expected in directing, supervising, and evaluating subordinates and assisting with field investigation activities.   Some evening, weekend, and other irregular work schedules may be required. Stress may be present in dealing with upset or irate citizens and related duties associated with a law enforcement officer.  Some exposure to physical danger, assault, and adverse weather and terrain conditions may occur.  Attendance at meetings, court hearings, and seminars may be required.  Pressure due to workload and deadlines is present.

Minimum Qualifications

Eight (8) years as a sworn law enforcement officer AND three (3) years as a sworn law enforcement supervisor
OR
Eight (8) years as a sworn law enforcement officer AND one (1) year as a DMV Motor Vehicle Inspector Supervisor.

 

Note: Candidate must be a full-time certified Vermont law enforcement officer at time of hire or eligible for waiver from the Vermont Criminal Justice Council at time of hire.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree.
Background in automotive diagnostics and repair.
 

Special Requirements

Mental and physical condition appropriate to successfully perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, the essential job functions.

Applicants are required to take or submit to a polygraph examination per Title 21, Section 494(b)(1).

This position is Group "C" retirement with mandatory retirement at age 57.

A current valid driver's license is required.

Total Compensation

As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:

  • 80% State paid medical premium and a dental plan at no cost for employees and their families
  • Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan
  • State Paid Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FMLI)
  • Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Flexible spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
  • Low cost group life insurance
  • Incentive-based Wellness Program
  • Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Want the specifics? Explore the Benefits of State Employment on our website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The State of Vermont celebrates diversity, and is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect and meaningful inclusion that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The State does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, HIV Status, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, membership in an employee organization, family medical history or genetic information, or family or parental status. The State’s employment decisions are merit-based. Retaliatory adverse employment actions by the State are forbidden.


Nearest Major Market: Barre
Nearest Secondary Market: Montpelier