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 found in an office environment; working on and around powered platforms and/or vehicle mounted platforms; exposure to environmental conditions which may result in injury from fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and/or poorly ventilated work areas; exposure to possible injury from extremely noisy conditions above 85db; exposure to 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, exposure to fire, hot, cold, wet, humid, or windy weather conditions, exposure to extreme non-weather related heat or cold, exposure to shaking objects or surfaces, exposure to second-hand smoke, exposure to hazardous driving conditions, working first, second or third shift, exposure to blood and other bodily fluids, as well as other potentially infectious materials, use of eye and face protection for potential exposure to flying objects, respiratory protection for potential exposure to airborne contaminants, head protection for potential impacts of objects to the head, and occupational foot protection for potential impacts of objects to the feet; participants in medical and first aid activities; exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical Demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.

In cases of emergency, unpredictable situations, and/or department needs, may be required to lift, push, pull, and/or carry objects heavier than D.O.L. strength ratings recommend.

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.

Patrols the Municipality; checks doors and windows and examines premises of unoccupied buildings or residences to detect suspicious conditions; investigates suspicious conditions and complaints of suspicious activity.

Reports to fire and accident scenes in assigned areas as directed, giving all possible assistance, including first aid.

Performs control, prevention, and detection of crime; maintains order in crowds, parades, funerals, or other public gatherings; disperses unlawful assemblies.

Directs traffic and enforces traffic regulations; uses radar to enforce speeding violations; administers intoxilyzer tests.

Arrests persons who violate laws and ordinances; accompanies prisoners to headquarters, jail or court; appears in court as arresting officer or assisting officer. Ability to participate in and provide testimony in court proceedings with the goal of successful prosecution of criminal cases.

Disseminates general information to the public; prepares and delivers speeches on subjects such as safety, crime prevention or other areas of police governance to schools, business and other community based organizations.

Attends meetings and serves on committees, as required; attends various meetings, seminars, and workshops.

Meets all job safety requirements and all applicable OSHA safety standards that pertain to essential functions.

Demonstrates prompt, regular, and predictable attendance. Ability to get along with others.

Performs 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 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, radarbased 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; 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.