Police Officer

Under general supervision of a Police Sergeant, enforces Federal, State and City laws, rules, regulations, ordinances and codes, by performing various law enforcement tasks that support law enforcement and crime prevention activities. Performs investigative work and other special assignments; performs a variety of technical and administrative tasks in support of the Pflugerville Police Department. Maintains a high visibility in the community to deter and prevent criminal activity and educates the public in ways to protect themselves from criminal activity and/or prevent accidents and injuries. Exercises significant levels of judgement, discretion, and initiative in the performance of duties. Applies technical and legal knowledge and expertise to solve complex problems; frequently interfaces with the general public, other department personnel and management, and state, federal, and local government representatives. Protects the life, property, general safety, and welfare of the general public within appropriate jurisdiction by enforcing City, state, and federal laws and ordinances. Responsibilities Patrol City streets to deter crime and assist citizens as needed; note suspicious persons, activities, or establishments; take action or report the situation. Investigate criminal or suspicious activities; secure crime scenes; gather evidence; interview/interrogate witnesses or suspects; make arrests. Prepare cases for court; appear in court to present evidence and serve as a witness. Investigate and assist at accident scenes: administer first aid as required; call for assistance; investigate the cause and results of accidents; recommend corrective action(s) to help avoid similar future accidents. Identify and correct or report public safety hazards. Control traffic flow for compliance with local and state regulations: direct and re‑route traffic at fires and other disturbances; issue tickets for parking and traffic violations; authorize the tow and impoundment of vehicles as required. Prepare accurate and timely reports regarding response calls. Perform animal control for City ordinance violations and wild animals in the absence of or conjunction with Animal Control Officer. Provide information and direction to the public; provide public with other assistance as necessary, e.g., accessing locked vehicles and homes, obtaining roadside assistance with disabled cars, and other community policing activities. Provide support to other Police functions such as School Resource Officer or Police Dispatchers. Book, monitor and control property, ensure safety, search and frisk inmates in holding facility. May help train and oversee the work of less experienced Patrol Officers. Maintain patrol cars in safe and clean operating condition. Conduct crime prevention inspections and surveys for residential areas or businesses. Formal Education and Certifications High school diploma or equivalent. Completion of approved Basic Peace Officers Certification Academy. Certified Peace Officer Certificate from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education (TCLEOSE). Associate’s degree in criminal justice (preferred). Lateral Officer Eligibility Requirements Be a certified Texas Peace Officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). Have at least 1 year prior work experience with similar duties in a comparable law enforcement agency and must hold an Intermediate Peace Officer Certificate or higher through TCOLE. Must not have had a break in service as a Police Officer of more than 180 days prior to the start of the background process. The Chief of Police shall determine eligibility for lateral entry of police applicants. Qualifications Thorough working knowledge of City ordinances and state and federal laws related to police operations. Ability to understand detailed written and verbal operating procedures and instructions. Ability to establish and maintain professionally effective working relationships with prosecutors, judges, co‑workers, other law enforcement personnel, EMS and fire personnel, the general public, and representatives of state, federal, and local government agencies. Ability to remain calm, make sound decisions, and respond appropriately during stressful situations and under adverse conditions. Ability to safely operate a patrol vehicle and all related equipment (laptop computers, radio, radar, video camera systems). Good communication (verbal and written) skills. Proficiency with weapons and patrol car equipment; weapons proficiency to be demonstrated quarterly as prescribed by TCLEOSE or departmental policy. Ability to maintain currency in required TCLEOSE and departmental training. Ability to sit and stand to perform essential functions in an office and outside environment; handle visual acuity, speech, hearing, hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary for office equipment; occasional strenuous activity including running, jumping, climbing, lifting up to 50 lbs., and carrying. Satisfactory physical, psychiatric, and drug testing results as prescribed by department standards. Regularly scheduled for a 5‑day, 40‑hour work week, Monday through Friday; overtime occasionally required. Physical Job Requirements Verbal and written communications. Occasional strenuous activity, including running, jumping, climbing, lifting up to 50 lbs., and carrying or any other physical activity required to pursue and arrest suspects effectively. Extended periods of sitting at a desk or in a vehicle. Operation of the patrol vehicle and related equipment. Satisfactory physical, psychiatric, and drug testing results as prescribed by department standards. #J-18808-Ljbffr