Patrol Officer

Patrol Officer

Under general supervision, to enforce laws and ordinances, maintain order, prevent crime, and makes arrests.

Reports to: Sergeants

Directs: Does not supervise any employee

Other: Works with all protective service personnel to coordinate effective response in emergency situations

A Police Officer is a responsible non-supervisory position. Duties of the Police Officer include but are not limited to the following:

• patrolling assigned areas either on foot or by car;
• shooting a pistol, rifle, or shotgun as mandated by department and TCOLE policy
• communicating with dispatcher by radio;
• making arrests;
• directing traffic;
• preparing necessary reports and records related to law enforcement activities;
• being available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for emergencies;
• investigating any suspicious activity in order to enforce laws and ordinances;
• enforcing traffic and parking laws and ordinances;
• investigating traffic accidents;
• registering and booking prisoners;
• preparing records of arrest and submitting detailed reports of investigation;
• testifying in court proceedings when required;
• administering CPR and first aid in emergency situations;
• receiving telephone calls and greeting the public with professional courtesy, attentiveness, and concern;
• organizing and implementing crime prevention programs;
• working varying hours and days to accommodate required overtime, shift work, and/or on call schedule; and
• performs other related duties as may be assigned or required.

A Police Officer must be able to lift and carry up to 100 pounds and to pull, push, or drag over 150 pounds. A Police Officer is required to run, walk, stand or sit for extended periods of time. Occasionally a Police Officer is required to climb, crawl, stoop, twist, balance, or otherwise extend or contort the body in the performance of duties. He or she must be able to point a pistol, rifle, or shotgun for extended periods of time without firing; use a baton and or chemical agencies to control hostile suspects; and use eyes, ears, nose, arms, hands, fingers, legs and feet to perform assigned duties and responsibilities. Physical demands of the job of Police Officer include forcibly subduing suspects; pursuing suspects for extended distances over rugged terrain, up and down stairs, and over or through other barriers; and forcing entry into buildings, rooms, and other enclosures.

The position also entails some exposure to mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazards; fumes and odors; dust; mites; and toxic waste hazards. There is a possibility of severe injury or loss of life during the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities. This position requires the employee to have 20/20 vision with or without corrective lenses and must first perceived forced whispered voice at greater or equal to five (5) feet with or without a hearing aid. The job of Police Officer is performed outdoors in extreme temperatures including heat, cold, temperature swings, and inclement weather.

A Police Officer must have a basic knowledge of state and federal criminal laws relating to police operations, self defense techniques, use and maintenance of firearms, and use and maintenance of other law enforcement equipment. He or she must have the ability to follow orders; to exercise good judgment; to enforce laws with firmness, tact, and impartiality; to react calmly and quickly; to work with the general public; to express his or herself both orally and in writing; and to demonstrate skill in the care and use of firearms and in operating a motor vehicle.

Education, Work Experience, Certifications, and Licenses Required:

1. High school diploma or GED equivalent
2. Licensed Peace Officer's certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
3. A valid Texas driver's license.