Police Officer I/II

Police Officer

This classification includes three progressive levels: Police Officer Recruit (Non-Sworn), Police Officer I (Sworn), and Police Officer II (Advanced Sworn). Police Officers protect life and property and preserve the peace through the enforcement of federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Officers interact regularly with victims, suspects, City employees, other agency personnel, and the general public. Police Officers must maintain unquestionable personal and professional integrity, demonstrate impartiality and cultural awareness, uphold a strong ethical code in both personal and professional conduct, and serve the community with courage, compassion, and respect. Upon successful completion of the Basic Police Academy and the prescribed Field Training Program, officers must possess working knowledge of: criminal law, civil rights, and victim rights; criminal justice and law enforcement procedures; City of Palmer Ordinances; department policies and procedures; scientific methods of crime detection and criminal identification; radio communications procedures; applicable case law; and the geography of the City of Palmer. Officers must demonstrate the ability to maintain cooperative working relationships with City officials, other agencies, and the public; evaluate investigative procedures and determine appropriate action; prepare clear, accurate reports and court documents; testify clearly and professionally in court; exercise sound judgment in emergencies; and work independently with minimal supervision.

Police Officer Recruit: The designation of Police Officer Recruit is a temporary, non-sworn status within the Police Officer I classification. This status applies to individuals hired who have not yet completed a Basic Police Academy certified by the Alaska Police Standards Council (APSC). Duration and Progression This status begins on the date of hire and concludes upon successful graduation from an Alaska Police Standards Council (APSC)–certified Basic Police Academy and transition to Police Officer I (Sworn). Continued employment is contingent upon maintaining good standing and successfully completing all academy requirements. Failure to complete the academy or maintain academy standards may result in separation from employment. While in Recruit status, duties are limited to attending and successfully completing all academic, physical, and tactical academy requirements; performing non-enforcement administrative tasks as assigned; and participating in ride-alongs for training purposes with prior approval. Recruits do not possess police powers and may not engage in enforcement activities or represent themselves as sworn officers. Compensation and Hours Compensation is paid at the Police Officer I, Step 1 rate in accordance with the City of Palmer Pay Plan and is based on a standard 80-hour pay period. This position is classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA); however, academy training and assigned duties are structured within the standard 80-hour pay period, and overtime is not authorized while in Recruit status. Transition to Sworn Status Upon successful completion of the academy, the employee will be transitioned to the rank of Police Officer I (Sworn). At that time, the "Police Recruit" flat rate pay restriction will be lifted, and the employee will transition to the standard patrol schedule and overtime eligibility as defined by the City of Palmer's personnel policy.

Police Officer I: Patrol the City of Palmer to preserve peace and enforce laws and ordinances; make arrests and use appropriate force when necessary; conduct investigations; collect, process, and preserve evidence; photograph and diagram crime scenes; interview witnesses and suspects; prepare reports and required documentation; testify in court proceedings; operate investigative and enforcement equipment; maintain confidentiality; work independently; develop and maintain cooperative interagency relationships; and perform other duties as assigned. Supervision Reports to the Patrol Sergeant, however, the employee must learn to operate without direct supervision and make independent decisions based on knowledge, education, experience, and department policy.

Police Officer II: Police Officer II performs all duties of Police Officer I with increased responsibility and experience. Additional Responsibilities May serve as Field Training Officer (FTO) if qualified and assigned; provides training and guidance to new officers when designated.