POLICE OFFICER

Law Enforcement Officer

Under general supervision and the direction of the Chief of Police, enforcement of State and Horry County law, rules, regulations and ordinances. Must work in all weather conditions, be proficient with firearms, and able to respond to potential law enforcement or security concerns as needed. Applicants may be considered for all sworn entry-level positions within the agency. Applications are considered current for one year from submittal. This class is FLSA Non-exempt.

When applying for this position, an additional Background Questionnaire is required. Please download the Background Questionnaire Form, complete it, and upload the completed form in the Attachments section of your application.

Makes public safety decisions based on the safest procedures to be followed to endure safety to individuals involved and fellow officers/members of rescue team while following local, state, and federal procedures.

Works in community to help prevent crimes and provide security for the welfare of the citizens while enforcing local, state and federal laws. For example duties include but not limited to patrolling County business and residential areas checking for suspicious people and people with vehicle problems while investigating any abandoned vehicles observed or reported; apprehending, arresting and detaining criminal suspects and law violators when necessary while following proper procedures when making arrest; serving traffic violations when necessary; providing crime scene security; processing crime scenes; rendering first aid in emergency situations, etc.

Patrols community and responds to complaint and emergency calls made to the Police Department, enforcing all state and local laws relating to public safety and welfare. Responds to and conducts preliminary investigations and/or reports including but not limited to: accidents, bomb threats, missing persons report, homicides, narcotics violations, jail breaks, kidnapping, civil disturbances, domestic disturbances, assault and battery, rape, theft, vandalism, suicide, fire and burglar alarm, etc.

Patrols assigned sector of the County, enforcing all state and local laws relating to public safety and welfare. Also, assists other Department divisions and agencies with investigations, special cases, traffic control, crowd control, etc. as needed.

Performs various public service functions including but not limited to: serving as traffic escort; assisting motorist in various situations as needed; providing security in various events as required such as court, athletic events, dances, festivals, parades, or other public events as needed.

Serves warrants, summonses, subpoenas, civil and other official papers.

Completes and submits required reports in a timely manner. Prepares, processes, and/or transmits various reports as required including but not limited to incident reports, traffic tickets, vehicle maintenance reports, weekly and monthly reports, warrants, booking reports, evidence reports, release forms, etc. Records information concerning events that took place during tour of duty, and records such activity in the manner as directed by the department.

Attends hearings and trails; serves as witness to provide evidence in court as required.

Responds to public inquiries; refers public to persons or agencies which can provide further assistance as required.

Attends required periodic training sessions and seminars; participates in physical fitness activities. Maintains required level of proficiency in the use of firearms and evasive action/driving skills. Maintains weapons and equipment in functional and presentable condition.

Interacts and communicates with various groups and individuals including but not limited to department supervisors, County employees, co-workers, citizens, suspects, court personnel, victims, witnesses, medical personnel, other emergency response and law enforcement agencies, property/business owners, community organizations, student/school personnel, etc. Makes public appearances and attends meetings and functions as required to maintain effective Department public relations. Presents educational and motivational programs to school children.

Operates and maintains a police vehicle.

Transports psychiatric patients and prisoners to prescribed locations as necessary.

Works under stressful, high-risk conditions.

Performs special projects as directed by the Chief of Police.

Performs other related duties as required.

Language Ability: Requires the ability to read a variety of laws, policies and procedures, training manuals, lab reports, maps, criminal histories, equipment manuals, etc. Requires the ability to prepare reports, records, etc. with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control and confidence.

Knowledge Requirement: Has through knowledge of the activities and methods practiced within the Department. Has extensive knowledge of federal, state and county laws, regulations, policies and procedures relating to the responsibilities of Patrol Officer. Has extensive knowledge of various ordinances related to the activities of the department and is able to ensure public safety. Knows how to utilize various pieces of law enforcement equipment and tools in a safe and efficient manner and care for the required tools and equipment. Knows how to determine and ensure law enforcement safety while working and promoting safety. Has considerable knowledge of criminal behavior and methods of operation, civil processes, and must be able to analyze problems that arise and recommend solutions. Has the ability to deal courteously, yet firmly and effectively with the public in police situations. Knows and practices proper arrest. Has knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade. Is able to perform duties under stressful or dangerous conditions, often involving personal risk or the risk of others and has the ability to perform in adverse environmental conditions such as heat, cold, odors, wetness, noise, humidity and disease. Must be able to use judgment and discretion in dealing with emergency situations, law enforcement techniques and methods, etc. Must be able to observe situations analytically and objectively, to record them clearly and accurately in incident reports, and to report them clearly and accurately in court as required. Is able to comprehend, interpret and apply regulations, procedures and related information.

Minimum: High School diploma or equivalent diploma certification. Associate's degree or higher in Criminal Justice or a related field is preferred. Military experience with Honorable Discharge is preferred. Must be at least 21 years of age; and possess a valid South Carolina driver's license. Must pass required pre-employment written exam, interview panel, physical exam, background check, polygraph examination, and psychological examination. Must be able to maintain required level of proficiency in the use of firearms. Must possess a willingness to travel as needed to carry out essential job duties. Must complete SCCJA Class I certification upon being hired.

Other Requirements: Physical Requirements: Must be physically able to operate a motor vehicle as well as a variety of types of office and law enforcement equipment including computer, two-way radio, firearm, police vehicle, etc. Must be physically able to exert up to fifty (50) pounds of force occasionally and/or frequently to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Physical demands are in excess of sedentary work; position requires seizing, holding, grasping, etc. and involves walking, standing, reaching, stooping, crouching, etc. for brief periods of time. Must be able to physically defend one's self from attack or assault. Must be able to lift and/or carry weights of approximately one hundred (100) pounds.