Police Officer I

Police Officer IProtect. Serve. Lead.The City of Clinton Police Department is seeking motivated, ethical, and community-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference. Whether you are beginning your law enforcement career or an experienced officer seeking a department that values your work, we invite you to join a professional team dedicated to protecting our community through integrity, service, and excellence.As a Police Officer I, you will perform a variety of law enforcement duties to preserve public safety, protect life and property, enforce federal, state, and local laws, and build positive relationships within the community. Officers receive extensive training, modern equipment, and opportunities for career advancement while serving one of South Carolina's most welcoming communities.Why Join the Clinton Police Department?Competitive salary with opportunities for advancement (salary DOQ)South Carolina Police Officer Retirement System (PORS)Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurancePaid vacation, sick leave, and holidaysTuition assistance and professional development opportunitiesState-certified law enforcement trainingSpecialized unit opportunities include:Criminal InvestigationsK-9 UnitSchool Resource OfficerCommunity PolicingTraffic EnforcementSpecial Response Team (as available)Modern patrol equipment and technologySupportive leadership and family-oriented work environmentPosition SummaryPolice Officers serve as the front line of public safety by responding to emergency and non-emergency calls, preventing crime, conducting investigations, enforcing traffic laws, protecting citizens, and fostering strong relationships throughout the community.This position requires sound judgment, professionalism, integrity, and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesResponsibilities include, but are not limited to:Patrol assigned areas by vehicle and foot.Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service.Enforce federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.Conduct preliminary and follow-up criminal investigations.Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects.Collect, preserve, and document evidence.Prepare accurate incident and investigative reports.Make lawful arrests when appropriate.Testify in court proceedings.Conduct traffic enforcement and investigate vehicle collisions.Assist citizens during emergencies and disasters.Participate in community policing initiatives.Provide security at special events.Serve warrants and subpoenas.Operate department vehicles and law enforcement equipment safely.Work collaboratively with other law enforcement agencies.Perform other duties as assigned.Minimum QualificationsApplicants must:Be at least 21 years of age.Be a United States citizen.Possess a high school diploma or GED.Hold a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.Successfully complete an extensive background investigation.Pass a criminal history review.Pass a psychological evaluation.Pass a medical examination.Pass a drug screening.Meet all South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy certification requirements or be eligible to attend the Academy.Preferred QualificationsPreference may be given to applicants who possess:South Carolina Class I CertificationPrior law enforcement experienceMilitary serviceAssociate's or Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or related fieldBilingual communication skillsSpecialized law enforcement certificationsKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesSuccessful candidates should demonstrate:Excellent communication skillsStrong ethical standardsSound judgment and decision-makingAbility to solve problems under pressureProfessional appearance and demeanorExcellent report writing abilitiesConflict resolution skillsAbility to work independently and as part of a teamCommitment to community-oriented policingPhysical RequirementsThe position requires the ability to:Stand, walk, run, and climb for extended periods.Lift and carry equipment and individuals when necessary.Operate law enforcement vehicles safely.Wear body armor and duty equipment.Use firearms and defensive tactics safely.Work in adverse weather and hazardous environments.Work SchedulePolice Officers work 12-hour shifts, including:DaysNightsWeekendsHolidaysOvertime when necessaryEmergency call-outs during disasters or critical incidentsHiring ProcessQualified applicants may be required to complete:Employment ApplicationPreliminary ScreeningOral InterviewPhysical Agility Assessment (if applicable)Comprehensive Background InvestigationPolygraph Examination (if required)Psychological EvaluationMedical ExaminationDrug ScreeningConditional Offer of EmploymentRequired Application DocumentsApplicants should be prepared to provide:Valid Driver's LicenseBirth CertificateSocial Security CardHigh School Diploma or GEDCollege Transcripts (if applicable)Military DD-214 (if applicable)South Carolina Law Enforcement Certification (if applicable)Employment HistoryProfessional ReferencesJoin Our TeamA career with the Clinton Police Department is more than a job—it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community you serve. If you are committed to integrity, professionalism, and service, we encourage you to apply today to join a department dedicated to protecting and serving the citizens of Clinton.General DisclaimerThe duties described in this job announcement are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, knowledge, skills, abilities, or working conditions associated with the position. The City of Clinton reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and responsibilities as organizational needs require and as permitted by applicable law.Submission of an application, participation in the recruitment or selection process, or inclusion on an eligibility list does not constitute an offer of employment, create an employment contract, or guarantee employment for any specific position or duration. Any offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of all applicable pre-employment requirements and final approval by the City.Equal Employment OpportunityThe City of Clinton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation where protected by law, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.Reasonable AccommodationThe City of Clinton provides reasonable accommodations to