Patrol Officer

Job TitleThis position is responsible for the enforcement of city codes and ordinances, state laws, federal laws, and the protection of life and property.Essential Job FunctionsPatrols the city to detect and deter criminal activity and traffic violations; conducts security checks for business and public and private property; maintains peace and corrects hazards to public safety. Responds to calls for service, including domestic disputes, assaults, burglaries, traffic accidents, lost or missing persons searches, public service duties, stranded motorists, and others. Conducts investigations into traffic accidents, crimes, and other incidents, including interviewing victims, complainants and witnesses, gathering information and evidence, and securing crime scenes. Gathers and processes evidence; submits evidence for investigation, storage, and submission to crime lab. Apprehends, arrests, and processes offenders, including fugitives; subpoenas witnesses. Processes arrested person and conducts prisoner transports; performs search and seizure of weapons and contraband. Provides assistance and backup support to other officers and emergency service providers as necessary. Maintains traffic control through observation, enforcement, road closures, etc.; provides traffic direction as needed for events such as parades, funerals, events, and school crossings; assists motorists. Prepares case files for court; testifies in judicial proceedings as necessary. Completes all required reports and forms, including accident and incident reports. Inspects and maintains assigned patrol car, uniform, and equipment. Participates in required training programs. Performs specialized duties as assigned, including providing security for City Court and special details. Serves warrants and subpoenas. Responds to natural and other disasters, including storms, floods, etc.; conducts joint operations with other agencies. Performs related duties.Minimum QualificationsKnowledge of relevant federal and state laws, criminal and traffic codes, search and seizure laws, city ordinances, and department policies and procedures. Knowledge of traffic accident investigation techniques and procedures. Knowledge of law enforcement, crime prevention, and criminal investigation principles. Knowledge of First Aid principles and techniques. Knowledge of the geography and streets of the city. Knowledge of the court system and judicial procedures. Skill in the use of a computer and job-related software programs. Skill in the completion of accurate and complete reports. Skill in operating police vehicles, firearms, and emergency equipment. Skill in operating radios and communications equipment. Skill in operating radar and laser equipment. Skill in restraining persons without causing physical harm. Skill in oral and written communication. Education High school diploma or equivalent required. Less than one year of related experience required. Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver's license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Ability to meet current requirements set forth by the Peace Officer Standards and Training Council for the State of Georgia.Additional InformationGuidelines include state and federal laws, traffic laws, city ordinances, training manuals, and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application. The work consists of related law enforcement duties. The varied nature of calls and the potential for emergencies contribute to the complexity of the work. The purpose of this position is to protect life and property and to enforce federal, state, and local laws. Successful performance contributes to the detection and deterrence of crime and to the protection of life and property. Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, other emergency service providers, court system personnel, attorneys, judges, medical personnel, law enforcement officers from other agencies, suspects, victims, witnesses, inmates, and the general public. Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, provide services, interview persons, and resolve problems. The work is typically performed while sitting, standing, walking, running, bending, crouching or stooping. The employee must occasionally lift light or heavy objects, use equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguish between shades of color, and use the physical force necessary to arrest and restrain persons. The work is performed indoors, in a vehicle, and outdoors. The employee may be exposed to inclement weather, infectious diseases, and life-threatening situations. The work requires the use of specialized law enforcement equipment.BenefitsOverview of Benefits Paid Holiday Paid Vacation Paid Sick Leave Short Term Disability Long Term Disability Service Recognition Employee Development and In-Service Training Uniform Allowance (select positions) Employee Assistance Program Discounts Direct Deposit Retirement Defined Benefit Retirement Pension Plan Deferred Compensation Retirement Plan Healthcare PPO Medical Dental Plus Plan Dental Basic Plan Vision Service Plan AFLAC Life Insurance Basic Life and ADD Supplemental Life Employee Benefit costs are paid by the City of Fort Oglethorpe, by the employee or shared by both the City and the employee.