Patrol Officer - Entry Level

Patrol Officer

Under general supervision, the Patrol Officer performs general police duty work in the protection of life and property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances.

Inherently hazardous or physically demanding working conditions include ascending and/or descending ladders, stairs, or scaffolds; exposure to chemical compounds, powered platforms, hazardous gases, chemicals, flammables, air contaminants, hazardous waste, unclean or unsanitary conditions, electrical shock, radiation, explosions, falling from high places, working in or around crowds, contact with potentially violent or emotionally distraught persons or vicious animals or life threatening situations, fire, hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy weather conditions, extreme non-weather related heat or cold, shaking objects or surfaces, second-hand smoke, hazardous driving conditions, and working first, second or third shift. Employee is also exposed to blood and other bodily fluids, as well as other potentially infectious materials.

Essential functions of the position include preserving the peace, protecting life and property; enforcing laws and ordinances of the City as well as applicable state and federal laws; responding to and taking action on complaints; responding to accidents, catastrophes and fire calls; watching for stolen cars and wanted or missing persons; answering criminal complaints and taking corrective action as required; conducting preliminary investigations; gathering and controlling evidence; obtaining witnesses; maintaining records of investigations and performing follow-up investigations; writing reports; patrolling the Municipality; checking doors and windows and examining premises of unoccupied buildings or residences to detect suspicious conditions; investigating suspicious conditions and complaints of suspicious activity; reporting to fire and accident scenes in assigned areas as directed, giving all possible assistance, including first aid; performing control, prevention, and detection of crime; maintaining order in crowds, parades, funerals, or other public gatherings; dispersing unlawful assemblies; directing traffic and enforcing traffic regulations; using radar to enforce speeding violations; administering intoxilyzer tests; arresting persons who violate laws and ordinances; accompanying prisoners to headquarters, jail or court; appearing in court as arresting officer or assisting officer; disseminating general information to the public; attending meetings and serving on committees, as required; and meeting all job safety requirements and all applicable OSHA safety standards that pertain to essential functions.

Other duties and responsibilities include performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications include completion of secondary education or equivalent (high school diploma or GED); completion of Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy; or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Ability to pass a comprehensive background check.

Licensure or certification requirements include possession of a valid driver's license, remaining insurable under the City's vehicle insurance policy, and possession of an Ohio Peace Officer Training Certificate.

Equipment operated includes breathalyzers, fingerprint scanners, body armor, bullet proof vests, digital camcorders or video cameras digital cameras, first aid kits, fingerprint equipment, road flares, pepper spray, handcuffs, handguns, lasers, distance measuring wheels, metal detectors, police rifles, drug testing kits, night sticks, police shotguns, police vehicles, protective gloves, radar-based surveillance systems, riot batons, riot helmets, riot shields, crime scene rulers, safety glasses, noise meters, audio recording equipment, crime scene tape measures, two way radios, and other standard police equipment; computers, telephone, fax machines, copiers, scanners, and other standard office equipment; motor vehicle.

Minimum acceptable characteristics include knowledge of City and department goals and objectives; City and department policies and procedures; investigation techniques; arrest procedures; law enforcement procedures and methods; techniques of collection and preservation of evidence; surveillance techniques; security practices and procedures; general office practices and procedures; English spelling, grammar, and punctuation; skill in use and operation of two-way radio; operation and care of firearms; use of restraint devices; use of modern office equipment; data entry; computer operation; Microsoft Office applications; and ability to carry out instructions in written, oral, or picture form; deal with variety of variables within somewhat unfamiliar context; recognize unusual or threatening conditions and take appropriate action; complete routine forms; prepare accurate documentation; organize and prioritize work assignments; add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers; respond to routine inquiries from public and/or officials; maintain records according to established procedures; communicate effectively; develop and maintain effective working relationships; ability to get along with others; subdue and/or restrain adults and children; identify and distinguish colors; maintain fitness standards; travel to and gain access to worksite.