Police Officer - TCAT Clarksville Campus

About the role

Under general supervision, performs all duties of a Police Officer, including enforcing applicable laws, ordinances, policies and procedures. Patrols the campus by foot, bicycle or motor vehicle.

Responsibilities

• Protects life and property of the general public within the department’s jurisdiction.
• Responds and takes the lead in atypical situations and emergencies, until relieved by higher authority.
• Affords assistance with training activities and in-service presentations for other police officers, security officers and the campus population.
• Observes and reports suspected crimes, accidents or activities of a questionable/suspicious nature.
• Discourages unlawful activities.
• Works with the Chief of Police to plan, organize and implement security for campus functions, special events, crisis management and disaster planning.
• Reports incidents involving persons or property, reporting likely cause of accidents, pursuing appropriate course of action and informing proper authorities as required.
• Cooperates with other law enforcement officials and jurisdictions and testifies in court or legal proceedings as required.
• Operates and maintains safety and security department equipment.
• Keeps records and makes reports.
• Makes recommendations to the Chief of Police on the development and implementation of comprehensive security programs, policies and procedures.
• Serves as liaison with contract security company and officers.
• Provides guidance in coordination with Chief of Police for the contract security officers.
• Responds to requests for assistance, such as jump starting cars, unlocking doors, giving directions, etc., from students, faculty and staff.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or educational equivalent
• Two years of work experience in law enforcement
• Possess a valid Tennessee driver’s license
• Current certification by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Commission, per TCA 38-8-107, or the ability to become P.O.S.T. certified within six (6) months of hire
• Must pass a medical examination/drug screening and a psychological evaluation
• Must pass a thorough background investigation, including a favorable criminal background report and motor vehicle record
• Must never have been convicted of or pled guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to any felony charge or to any violation of any federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft or controlled substances
• Must have received an honorable discharge if served in the U.S. armed forces
• Have his/her fingerprints on file with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation

Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice or related field
• Current P.O.S.T. certification
• Crisis management or emergency management training and experience
• Experience policing in a higher education setting

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to operate two-way radios, firearms, handcuffs, cell phones and other law enforcement equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of criminal justice, law enforcement, and higher education protocols/procedures.
• Thorough knowledge of Uniform Crime Reporting definitions.
• Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work with local community and leadership.
• Understanding of and appreciation for current student issues.
• Ability to handle crisis situations and act/lead under stressful conditions.
• Ability to relate to and interact effectively with wide range of populations.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to work evenings, nights, and weekends as required.