Police Officer

Police Officer

Performs general patrol duties and responds to calls for service as a key member of the Southport Police Department, working in partnership with the community to protect life and property. The Southport Police Department is committed to professional policing, community partnerships, and employee development. We are looking for individuals of integrity who are dedicated to public service and who want to build a rewarding law enforcement career while making a positive impact in our community.

Police Officers with the City of Southport will focus on community-based patrol operations and interactions throughout the community. They must professionally perform law enforcement and investigative duties to help ensure the safety of residents, businesses, and visitors. Officers will answer calls for service, respond to critical situations, investigate crimes and motor vehicle accidents, prepare incident, accident, and arrest reports. Officers will process minor crime scenes for fingerprints, collect and process other evidence, serve arrest warrants and criminal summonses, conduct follow-up investigations, work traffic control assignments, attend and testify in court, investigate narcotic and reported criminal activity, and work to organize and participate in community-based policing activity as assigned. All Southport Police Officers are expected to serve as ambassadors for the Police Department by promoting a positive image of the agency through professional interactions with the community. Patrol Officers are expected to develop proficiency in all aspects of police work through training, experience, and continued professional development. The Southport Police Department is committed to developing well-rounded officers who are proficient in all aspects of modern law enforcement.

Additional Job Duties Assists motorists; provide information and directions to visitors and the general public. Performs various crime prevention and community education programming. Performs other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Applicants should be motivated professionals who are enthusiastic about serving and engaging with the Southport community. Successful applicants must have the ability to communicate effectively with the public in both formal presentations and dynamic law enforcement situations. Knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances, and policies of the police department, especially relating to search and seizure, traffic control, pursuit, and arrest. Knowledge of animal control, cruelty investigations, rabies investigation procedures, minimum housing standards, and related City ordinances and state laws. Working knowledge of current law enforcement principles, practices, methods, and equipment. Working knowledge of scientific crime detection and criminal identification methods and procedures. Working knowledge of the application of information technology to law enforcement work. Skill in the use of firearms and other police equipment and in the application of self-defense tactics. Skill in collaborative conflict resolution. Ability to act with sound judgment in routine and emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms. Ability to present effective court testimony. Ability to prepare clear and concise activity reports. Ability to build and maintain cooperative and effective public relations with the citizens. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, and other public officials.

Desirable Experience and Education The City of Southport is seeking professional, service-oriented law enforcement officers who are committed to protecting our community while building positive relationships with residents, visitors, and fellow employees. Current North Carolina BLET certification is required. Out-of-state lateral transfers will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Special Requirements Before assignment to sworn duties, employees must possess a valid North Carolina driver's license, meet the minimum standards established by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission, and successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation.

Benefits North Carolina LGERS Pension 5% City-funded 401(k) Retirement Contribution Employer paid Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Vacation, Sick Leave, Personal Leave & 16 Paid Holidays Longevity Pay Additional compensation for scheduled holiday work Overtime opportunities In-County take-home vehicle program Educational support and training opportunities Progressive career step incentive program