Police Officer

The Wausau Police Department believes strongly in our mission. The Wausau Police Department strives for excellence in policing by partnering with the community to enhance the quality of life. To accomplish this mission, it is imperative we find people who have the right character traits to work in our community as police officers. Professionalism, Integrity, Accountability, and Respect are the values at the core of our agency. We have more than 40,000 calls for service annually and we utilize our philosophy of community oriented policing to foster relationships and find solutions for problems in our community. Because of the wide variety of assistance police officers must provide within the community along with the complexity of policing, the law enforcement profession presents more challenges than ever. Officers must be able to adapt quickly and problem solve effectively. Education and training are vital to the success of our organization. This recruitment is open to candidates who have successfully completed the Wisconsin 720 Law Enforcement Academy, or are a certified Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officer, or are a certified Law Enforcement Officer with at least one year of service from another state who want to make a positive difference in the lives of people in our community. Purpose of Position The purpose of this position is general duty police work involving protection of life and property, enforcement of laws, crime investigation, and service to the public. The employee has a significant impact of the quality of life through community partnership, strategic police patrols, and thorough investigations. The City of Wausau is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss accommodations with the employer. Responsibilities Patrols police sector in squad car, police bicycle, police motorcycle, or on foot to prevent or discover the commission of crime and traffic violations. Enforces City of Wausau ordinances and the laws of the State of Wisconsin. Operates a police vehicle in normal and emergency mode, day and night conditions, and during times of inclement weather and congested traffic. Responds to citizen calls for service and provide assistance as necessary. Investigates crime and other incidents, identify, collect and preserve evidence, identify and interview witnesses, issues citations and arrest criminals. Exercises independent judgment in determining reasonable suspicion to detain, probable cause to search and arrest, and use of force. Maintains working knowledge of criminal law as well as current police procedures. Investigates juvenile complaints and communicate with juveniles and parents/guardians. Prepares written documentation of police activities. Communicates police action in criminal and civil court proceedings. Problem solves with community members, business owners, and other city employees. Maintains City of Wausau core values. Efficiently operates computer systems for a variety of tasks. Performs basic CPR and first aid as needed. Additional Duties & Responsibilities Perform special assignments as assigned by supervisor. Attend and participate in neighborhood group meetings. Speak in front of citizen groups. Minimum Requirements United States Citizenship Minimum age 21 High School Diploma or equivalent Minimum of 60 credits from an accredited university, college, or technical school Successful completion of the Wisconsin 720 Law Enforcement Academy, or a certified Wisconsin Law Enforcement Officer, or a certified Law Enforcement Officer with at least one year of service from another state Ability to obtain and possess a valid Driver's License issued by the state of Wisconsin Have no criminal convictions which would limit the ability to possess a firearm Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to read, interpret and explain City of Wausau ordinances and Wisconsin State Statutes. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with citizens, co‑workers, supervisors, and others from diverse backgrounds. Ability to operate equipment and machinery requiring simple but continuous adjustments, such as computer keyboard/terminal, police radio, telephone, firearms and restraint devices. Ability to coordinate eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing semi‑skilled movements such as self‑defense, firearms use, operation of a motor vehicle, data entry and assembling. Ability to sit, stand, walk, use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, or crouch. Ability to run, jump, push, pull, drive safely at high speeds and in adverse conditions. Ability to physically apprehend and subdue suspects. Ability to lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Ability to recognize and identify similarities or differences between characteristics of colors, forms, sounds, tastes, odors and textures associated with job‑related objects, materials and tasks. Ability to remain calm, composed, undistracted and in full control of cognitive abilities while functioning appropriately in hostile, dangerous or fearful situations that require force, up to and including deadly force. Ability to use discretion effectively to determine a proper course of action consistent with a community‑oriented, problem‑solving approach to policing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of employment. Ability to adequately use and properly care for firearms and other police equipment. Physical and Working Environment Regular exposure to disagreeable and environmental conditions. Exposed to one or more particularly disagreeable elements such as continuous high noise level, considerable dust, heat, and humidity. Personal protective equipment regularly used. Regular travel throughout City. Ability to work under mildly unsafe and uncomfortable conditions where exposure to environmental factors such as potential violence, machinery and disease can cause discomfort and where there is a risk of injury. Salary Information Per the current agreement between the City of Wausau and the Professional Police Association, current rates for Police Officer are $32.32 - $42.00 per hour. Please see pages 31 of the current labor agreement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer The City of Wausau is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr