Police Officer

Summary This position involves law enforcement, crime prevention, and public assistance work protecting life and property through the enforcement of Federal, State, and Local laws. Employees are involved in the prevention, detection, and investigation of crimes and in maintaining law and order. The position reports to a designated supervisor and is performed under limited supervision, focusing on public protection. Essential Job Functions Patrols a designated area either by vehicle or foot patrol, being familiar with the assigned area and the citizens living in the area. Disperses unruly crowds at public gatherings. Reports hazards or abandoned vehicles to the appropriate City department. Uses a computer to type reports and other documents. Directs/reroutes traffic around accidents, fire, and/or other emergencies and hazards. Maintains assigned equipment and workstation. Effectively interacts and communicates with the public. Applies federal, state, and local laws, Department Manual, Policy and Procedures, Patrol Directives, and Legal Bulletins. Participates in court‑related processes. Conducts criminal and crash investigations; secures crashes and crime scenes, and the collection and submission of evidence. Conducts interviews, interrogations, and statement acquisition. Participates in searches, seizures, and arrests. Conducts security and escort duties. Renders first aid. Responds under emergency conditions. Issues warnings or tickets to violators of the law. Might be assigned desk officer duties on an assigned shift, including maintaining logs and other records, receiving and acting on complaints and requests, and facilitating the dispatch of officers to scenes of complaints, disturbances, crimes, and other emergencies. Attends work on a continuous and regular basis. Qualifications Education and Experience : High School Diploma or GED; at least one year of cumulative work experience, with post‑secondary education considered in lieu of experience; community service or volunteer experience considered in lieu of experience. Certifications or Licenses : Valid State of Florida Driver's License with a good driving record; Florida Department of Law Enforcement Basic Law Enforcement Certification; U.S. citizenship, nineteen years of age, meeting health, physical, psychological, and background standards. Legal requirements : No conviction of a felony or misdemeanor involving moral character, perjury, or making false statements; no conviction or plea after July 1, 1981; cannabis free for the past twelve months and no other illicit drug use for the past thirty‑six months. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities : Knowledge of Florida Statutes and City Ordinances; knowledge of City geography; skill in the use and care of firearms and police vehicles; ability to act effectively in diverse interpersonal settings; ability to analyze situations quickly, determine appropriate action under stress, and react calmly in emergencies; ability to prepare clear reports; ability to apply law enforcement principles and procedures; communication skills; ability to obtain accurate information through interviews, interrogation, and observation; ability to handle difficult situations firmly, courteously, and tactfully; maintain security and confidentiality; working knowledge of computers and relevant software; teamwork skills. Physical and Environmental Requirements Police officers must maintain a level of physical fitness to perform essential duties effectively. Work may involve heavy traffic, outdoor environments, and varying climatic conditions. Equal Opportunity The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in hiring. Minorities, women, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals who require special accommodations during the selection process should notify the Human Resources Department. Veterans’ Preference Veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ Preference ensures that veterans and eligible persons receive consideration at each step of the selection process, though it does not guarantee selection. Benefits All regular employees are eligible for traditional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, paid leave, paid holidays, a pension plan, and a deferred compensation plan. Additional benefits include on‑site fitness centers, tuition reimbursement, on‑site medical staff, and a wellness program. Benefits are not available for temporary employees. #J-18808-Ljbffr