Police Officer

Job Summary

Work related to the enforcement of laws and regulations, crime prevention, and the protection of life and property. These are sworn positions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following duties and responsibilities are illustrative of the primary functions of this position and are not intended to be all inclusive. Affect an arrest, forcibly if necessary, using handcuffs and other restraints; subdue resisting suspects using maneuvers and approved weapons in self-defense; process and transport people taken into custody or detained.

Prepare investigative and other reports, including sketches, using appropriate grammar, symbols, and mathematical computations. Exercise independent judgment in determining when and to what extent force may be used, and when there is reasonable suspicion to detain or probable cause to search and arrest. Safely operate a law enforcement vehicle both day and night, in emergency situations involving speeds in excess of posted limits, in congested traffic and on unsafe road conditions.

Communicate effectively with dispatchers and other police personnel utilizing laptop computer and radio. Gather appropriate information from victims, suspects, witnesses, and confidential informants. Properly handle and use weapons and/or firearms from a variety of body positions, under conditions of stress that justify the use of deadly force, and perform at levels of proficiency prescribed in certification standards.

Perform searches, which may involve walking for long periods, and stopping and detaining suspicious vehicles and persons. Engage in patrol functions that include rotating shifts, foot patrol, and physical security checks of buildings. Effectively communicate with people in order to inform and direct, mediate disputes, and advise individuals of legal rights.

Effectively communicate with people in court and other formal settings, including public speaking engagements. Detect and collect evidence and substances related to criminal offenses, often in dangerous conditions. Perform rescue functions at accidents, emergencies, and disasters that may involve physically moving people away from dangerous situations, or evacuating people from particular areas.

Read and comprehend legal and non-legal documents, including the preparation and processing of such documents as citations, affidavits, and warrants. Interact cooperatively with co-workers and members of the community. Report to work on time and maintain an acceptable attendance record. Management Responsibilities No