Police Officer

The Police Officer protects and preserves the lives and property of the citizens of the City of Riverside with impartiality. Primary responsibilities include patrolling city streets, parks, commercial, & residential areas to prevent, discover, & deter crime; enforce laws and issue citations as necessary; respond to calls & investigate issues; conduct accident investigations; prepare reports & records; conduct follow-up investigations by questioning victims, witnesses, & suspects and taking written statements; develop leads & tips; search crime scenes for clues & preserve evidence; evaluate evidence & arrest offenders; prepare cases for giving testimony & testify in court.

Police Officers have the opportunity to be involved in a variety of community oriented activities such as Junior Police Academy, Special Olympics, Fire/Police Athletic League, Shop with a Cop/Firefighter, and public education on Crime Prevention, Traffic Safety, etc.

Must be 21 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license, and be a U.S. citizen. A High School Diploma or GED is required. Must have or be able to acquire a MO POST certification. Must have a clean criminal record and driving history. Must have proportionate height and weight. Must be willing and able to work rotating shifts, which include nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime assignments.

Disqualifying Factors

• The commission of a crime classified as a a felony under Missouri Statute regardless of conviction status
• Non-felony crimes and incidents involving moral turpitude may be a disqualifying factor but will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
• Excessive traffic tickets
• Conviction of a Domestic Violence related crime or the respondent of an active full order of protection
• Sale, distribution, supplying of narcotics (to include prescription drugs)
• Deceit or otherwise lying in an official police investigation or administrative inquiry
• Use or possession of any controlled substance within the last five years (Where the use or possession of that controlled substance in itself would be classified a felony under Missouri Statute)
• Any illegal use of a controlled substance in the past two years (to include prescription drugs)

The ideal candidate must have a strong commitment to integrity and fairness. They will be able to effectively communicate with a wide variety of people & personalities and be able to react quickly & calmly in emergencies. Must be able to conduct self and operate firearms and other equipment in a safe manner. Must use good judgement in evaluating situations, problem solving, and making sound decisions. Must have excellent verbal & written communications skills.

The schedule for this position is a set 12 hour schedule, with every other Friday through Sunday off. May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and some overtime.