Police Officer-Recuit/Lateral

Job Description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The District Heights Police Department is accepting applications for Police Officer positions from both new recruits and experienced/lateral officers. Officers protect life and property, preserve the peace, enforce laws and ordinances, respond to calls for service, conduct investigations, make lawful arrests, prepare reports, testify in court, and engage with the community.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - ALL APPLICANTS

·        At least 21 years old to exercise police authority under applicable MPTSC certification requirements.

·        Meets applicable Maryland Police Training and Standards Commission (MPTSC) citizenship and education requirements.

·        Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

·        Legally eligible under federal and Maryland law to possess and use a handgun.

·        Able to successfully complete applicable background, fingerprint/criminal -history, drug-screening, medical, psychological, physical, training, and certification requirements.

RECRUIT APPLICANTS

Applicants who are not currently certified police officers must successfully complete MPTSC-approved entrance-level police training and DHPD field training. The City will provide required academy training and Department-issued equipment in accordance with applicable City and Department requirements.

Employment Agreement: The Police Officer Employment Agreement applies to police recruits requiring academy training and includes the applicable service commitment and reimbursement provisions stated in the executed agreement.

LATERAL APPLICANTS

Experienced officers must be currently certified, previously certified, or otherwise eligible for Maryland certification or recertification. Required training will depend on the applicant's prior certification, separation period, and experience, as determined through the MPTSC process.

PRIMARY DUTIES

·        Patrol the City and respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service.

·        Enforce Maryland laws and City ordinances; conduct investigations and make lawful arrests.

·        Prepare reports, collect evidence, testify in court, and coordinate with partner agencies.

·        Participate in community policing, crime prevention, and public-safety activities.

·        Perform other law-enforcement duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL / WORK REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of a police officer. DHPD's physical assessment includes a barrier climb, 150-pound drag for 15 feet, 300-foot run, and two flights of stairs. Officers must be available for rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, and emergency call-backs.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit the City employment application and request supporting documents. Qualified applicants will be contacted regarding the next steps in the hiring process.