Public Safety Sergeant

This position is open to current Grand Haven Public Safety employees only.

About the Role

Under the direction of the Operations Division Commander, an individual in this classification is in charge of a public safety team or functional unit and is responsible for the station and shift activities. This position is a high-level supervisory role with limited administrative work. Considerable independent judgement and discretion is used in interpreting and carrying out departmental policies and procedures, laws, ordinances, and in meeting community public safety needs.

Responsibilities

• Supervises, assigns, and directs activities of subordinate officers assigned to a specific district; acts as on-duty supervisor on assigned shift; communicates updates, procedures, and policies to officers; reviews and evaluates the performance of subordinate officers.
• Performs public safety duties on assigned shifts as necessary.
• Responds to scenes of criminal activity, fires, or major events; ensures proper public safety action is initiated; assists in apprehending and arresting criminals and offenders; questions suspects and witnesses and testifies in court as necessary; takes command of fire scenes.
• Prepares and directs the preparation and maintenance of reports and records; reviews subordinate officers' reports to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Receives complaints or reports of emergency situations and determines the appropriate action to be taken; resolves complaints, problems, and answers inquiries from citizens.
• Assists in developing and implementing new or revised policies, procedures, and programs; assists in coordinating departmental training or community relations programs; may conduct internal affairs investigations.
• Inspects buildings to determine security, fire safety, and proper operations.
• Coordinates, organizes, and oversees staffing and resources necessary for special events.
• Performs all essential job functions of Public Safety Officer III.
• Performs all other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A two-year college degree or equivalent.
• Five years of progressively more responsible experience within the Public Safety service.
• Certification as a Public Safety Officer III.

Skills

• Knowledge of modern police and fire practices and techniques.
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of city and departmental policies and procedures and knowledge of appropriate union contracts.
• Knowledge of the geography of the City and the street system.
• Communication skills (written and oral) in order to express ideas effectively.
• Interpersonal skills in order to work effectively with coworkers and citizens.
• Ability to plan, organize, and direct the work of subordinates.
• Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine the proper course of action.

Reporting Relationship

Reports to the Operations Division Commander, and ultimately to the Director of Public Safety. Supervises three to eight full-time employees and eight to fifteen part-time employees, including Public Safety Officer I's, Public Safety Officer II's, Public Safety Officer III's, Public Safety Officer I's (Part-time), and Seasonal Police Officers.