Lateral Entry Level Police Officer

Lateral – Entry Police Officer

City of Carbondale, Illinois Job Opening Announcement/Job Description

Department/Division: Police Department/ Police Protection

Nature of Work: The Patrol Officer is a uniform position and is sworn to enforce all laws and ordinances for which the Department is responsible, to protect the lives and property of all persons, and to maintain peace and order within the City of Carbondale. The Patrol Officer must frequently act without direct supervision and must exercise independent discretion in meeting emergencies. The Patrol Officer's work involves an element of personal danger and is subject to assignment to shifts and types of duty according to the needs of the Department. The Patrol Officer is routinely assigned to uniform patrol, but may be assigned to the Investigations Bureau, or any other assignment authorized by the Chief of Police. The Patrol Officer is ordinarily under the direct supervision of the Shift Supervisor; however, may receive direction from any superior officer.

Essential Duties: Reports at the specified time and place, wearing the uniform of the day, with all equipment necessary to sustain themselves until the completion of the tour of duty. Maintains equipment and uniforms in a neat and orderly fashion and is properly groomed in compliance with Department policy. Records and shares necessary and pertinent information at shift meetings. Inspects and maintains assigned police vehicle. Responds promptly and safely to assigned calls (i.e., accident investigations, criminal investigations, miscellaneous service calls, etc.). Conducts checks of assigned areas for unusual or hazardous conditions and takes appropriate action when such conditions are found. Conducts periodic premise checks of businesses and residences within the assigned area. Investigates all suspicious persons, places, or things coming to their attention. Responds to on-view situations which require police action as if assigned. Prepares and promptly submits written reports as a result of investigations or assignments. Conducts criminal and traffic preventive patrol during unassigned time. Assists other officers with investigations or acts as a back-up officer. Pursues, apprehends, and assists with the prosecution of persons who violate federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Processes and transports prisoners. Secures equipment when relieved of duty. Maintains substantive knowledge of pertinent city, state, and federal laws and ordinances. Maintains substantive knowledge of and adheres to all Department policies and procedures. Testifies in court at each stage of the judicial process, as required. Attends all required training and qualifies with firearms. Works with the community and is responsive to the needs of citizens. Remains vigilant regarding potential hazards or problems which could harm the public. Other tasks as assigned by a supervisor. Patrol Officers assigned as the Patrol Investigator will work under the direct supervision of the Investigations Sergeant and perform the duties of an investigator.

Other Duties: Performs other duties that are related to the overall operation of the Police Department.

Work Environment and Physical Demands: Knowledge of approved methods and practices of police work and applicable Federal and State laws and local ordinances; knowledge of the geography of the area; knowledge of departmental procedures, rules, and regulations; knowledge of and ability to operate a computer; ability to deal firmly and courteously with the public; ability to exercise good judgement and remain calm under pressure; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine proper courses of action; ability to maintain required records and to prepare reports; ability to react quickly and calmly in an emergency situation; ability to consistently remain physically fit to carry out the duties of the position; ability to develop skills in the use and care of firearms and such other regular and special police equipment as may be assigned; ability to successfully complete Basic Law Enforcement Training and Departmental training programs.

Qualifications and Experience: Must be a U.S. Citizen At least 21 years of age At least 2 years of experience as a full-time sworn, certified law enforcement officer with a municipal, county, state, or federal police department, with 3 years of application. Candidates with less than 2 years of experience may be considered if they have completed 60 hours of college credit or have 2 years of active duty military experience, in addition to full-time sworn, certified law enforcement officer experience. A State of Illinois certification by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board for recertification, if necessary. Certification by the state of employment outside Illinois will also be accepted, provided it is accepted and recognized by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. No more than forty (40) hours of training are required by the Board for recertification, if necessary. In good standing with the current department and/or left previous department(s) in good standing Must have substantially equivalent skills and abilities as a City of Carbondale post-probationary officer, as determined by the Chief of Police No felony conviction. NOTE: Some convictions for misdemeanors or serious traffic offenses may also disqualify applicants from further consideration Proof of a valid driver's license Must successfully complete an oral interview and background investigation Must successfully complete a medical examination and psychological tests Must sign a 36 month (3year) Pre-Employment Agreement

Application Review and Testing: Knowledge of approved methods and practices of police work and applicable Federal and State laws and local ordinances; knowledge of the geography of the area; knowledge of departmental procedures, rules, and regulations; knowledge of and ability to operate a computer; ability to deal firmly and courteously with the public; ability to exercise good judgement and remain calm under pressure; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine proper courses of action; ability to maintain required records and to prepare reports; ability to react quickly and calmly in an emergency situation; ability to consistently remain physically fit to carry out the duties of the position; ability to develop skills in the use and care of firearms and such other regular and special police equipment as may be assigned; ability to successfully complete Basic Law Enforcement Training and Departmental training programs.

Residency Boundary Requirement (20-mile radius of Carbondale) Benefits Include: Medical/Dental/Vision; Life Insurance; Retirement pension; 457 deferred compensation plan; Employee Assistance Program; 10 days of vacation /12 days of sick leave per year; 12 city holidays, plus one floating holiday; Section 125 pretax deductions; Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan and Healthcare Flexible Spending Account Regular, Full-time Position/Overtime Eligible Salary: $35.92/ hour (Under 5 years) - Rate of pay based on years of experience per contract