Police Officer

About the role

The Police Officer is the first level in a four-level police series and is responsible for performing a wide variety of law enforcement and crime prevention work as a sworn Officer. This position may be required to work variable shifts.

Responsibilities

• Patrols assigned area, enforces traffic and criminal laws;
• Observes and investigates unusual conditions in facilities, property or other areas;
• Counsels and assists the public regarding directions, laws, and other information as needed;
• Prepares and disseminates reports and makes recommendations on actions to be taken;
• Investigates local, state, and federal crimes which may include determining: Appropriate actions to be taken. Resources to utilize. Who to interview. Appropriate evidence to be collected. If illegal activities are civil or criminal infractions.
• Responds to calls for service, which may include: Determining level of emergency or non-emergency. Formulating tactics to be used in approaching and contacting individuals. Determining if a report should be written, etc.
• Enforces local, state, and federal laws; cites and/or arrests individuals who have violated applicable laws.
• Provides credible court testimonies.
• Investigates traffic offenses and vehicular collisions, instructs public safety classes, conducts emergency traffic control activities, and participates in specialty details.
• Investigates a variety of in-depth cases, interrogations, and processes evidence.

Requirements

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent; and Must be 21 years of age with no felony convictions.

Preferred Qualifications

• College level course work, focused on the criminal justice system, communications, social issues or other applicable subjects.

Other Functions

• May train and mentor peers.
• Gathers intelligence information, identifies local gangs, and investigates narcotic activities and violations.
• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.
• Handles job stress and interact effectively with others in the workplace.
• Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
• Is an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

• Knowledge of: Techniques of first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED).
• Modern office practices, methods and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
• English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
• Tactics for dealing with and solving the problems presented by a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, in person and over the telephone, often when relations may be confrontational or stressed.
• Tactics for providing a high level of customer service to the public and City staff, in person and over the telephone.
• Ability To: Learn a considerable amount of information regarding laws, ordinances, statutes, regulations, procedures and apply this knowledge to the duties of the position.
• Observe accurately, recall faces, names, descriptive characteristics, facts of incidents and places.
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies and procedures, laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, records, and other written materials.
• Identify and be responsive to community issues, concerns, and needs.
• Coordinate and carry out special assignments.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Monitor changes in laws and court decisions and apply them in work situations.
• Enter information into a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform the work.
• Make sound, independent decisions in emergency situations.
• Organize own work, set priorities and meet critical time deadlines.
• Operate a motor vehicle in a safe and responsible manner under patrol and emergency conditions, act effectively and calmly in emergency situations.
• Safely and skillfully use firearms and other police equipment.
• Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment and software programs.
• Comprehend and use English effectively including producing all forms of communication in a clear, concise, and understandable manner to intended audiences.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and legal guidelines in politically sensitive situations.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Obtain Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) clearance upon hire.
• Absorb and apply knowledge of LEADS certification within six months of employment.
• Obtain Basic Police Certificate (DPSST) after successful completion of the academy and field training.
• Successfully complete a background investigation to the satisfaction of the City.

Class of Drivers' License Required

Class C non-commercial driver

Driving Requirement

Yes