Police Sergeant

Merit-based position requiring certification from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy or equivalent out-of-state certification with successful completion of Iowa Administrative Code requirements. Minimum qualifications include two years of experience as a Police Officer or equivalent, or an AA/AAS in Criminal Justice/Police Science (or 60 semester/90 quarter hours from an accredited institution) plus one year of experience. Must possess a valid U.S. driver’s license.

About the Role

The Department of Public Safety at Iowa State University seeks a Police Sergeant to act as shift supervisor in the absence of the Lieutenant. This role involves overseeing day-to-day shift operations, assigning tasks, reviewing reports, and providing input into employee evaluations. The position may rotate through other Sergeant assignments and serves as a backup for public safety staff at incident scenes.

Under general supervision, the Police Sergeant exercises functional oversight of Police Officers, Trainees, Public Safety Officers, and Dispatchers to ensure proper performance of duties. Employees are expected to uphold the department’s values of Respect, Integrity, Caring, Honor, Excellence, and Service (RICHES) while working in partnership with the campus community to prevent crime and maintain a safe environment.

Responsibilities

• Monitor subordinate staff activities by observing and reviewing their work in assigned campus zones.
• Report policy violations to the Lieutenant and recommend corrective actions.
• Direct and instruct shift officers on departmental policies and procedures.
• Serve as the communication link between the Lieutenant/department administration and Police Officers.
• Evaluate strengths and weaknesses of officers for performance appraisals.
• Interview, recommend hiring, and supervise training of new employees; evaluate subordinate performance and recommend personnel actions.
• Assume duties of the shift commander in the Lieutenant’s absence.
• Perform all duties of a Police Officer, including responding to incidents and enforcing laws.

Requirements

• Knowledge of state criminal and traffic codes, city ordinances, and Constitutional law.
• Skill in observing and reviewing the work of Police Officers.
• Ability to perform duties of a Security Guard, Police Officer, and Public Safety Dispatcher.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a university law enforcement agency.
• Certified law enforcement officers hired for this role are eligible for a $10,000 recruitment incentive (terms provided upon hiring).

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental insurance.
• Retirement benefits (defined benefit and defined contribution plans).
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave policies.
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa).
• Life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Wellbeing program.

Pay

Pay Grade 22 (12-month, full-time position).