Police Records Clerk

Buffalo Police Department Report Technician

Incumbents to a position in this class are responsible for the performance of routine, specialized and detailed clerical tasks in the Buffalo Police Department which involves the full-time or substantial part-time operation of equipment requiring the manipulation of a standard alphanumeric keyboard including typewriters and electronic word processing equipment, CRT Terminals, Personal Computers, Data Terminals and Printers. The Report Technician is assigned to clerical tasks within the Buffalo Police Department so that uniform personnel may be released for the performance of work of an enforcement nature. Duties require the exercising of independent judgment in the performance of various clerical tasks and a general understanding of office rules, procedures and policies. Incumbents may be required to work any of the three (3) shifts, including weekends and holidays. Immediate supervision is received from a member of the Buffalo Police Department as designated by the Commissioner of Police. This position exercises no supervisory responsibilities.

Typical work activities include receiving and processing calls and inquiries from the general public and directing them to the proper authority; answering walk-in counter requests for information, accident records, crime records, etc.; processing requests for warrant checks, criminal history checks, motor vehicle and other police related computer and manual checks; maintaining all records concerning police operations including report taking (crime reports, accident reports, etc.) from Police Officers, Walk-ins; taking telephone reports and reports through other electronic means (i.e., Fax etc.); recording information involving stolen and recovered motor vehicles; logging of all transactions; maintaining a record of and being responsible for all property taken from prisoners at central booking until same is either turned over to the Property Officer or is forwarded to City Court with the prisoner as the case maybe; performing related duties including moving boxes in or out of storerooms; preparing, entering and/or canceling messages on local, central police service and New York State Police Information Network, teletype and other police information networks; being responsible for creating and maintaining computer files in relation to police related activities; preparing and typing arrest records, correspondence, documents, reports and other materials using equipment with an alpha numeric keyboard; proofreading typed copy, noting any errors and making corrections by using appropriate techniques; processing, checking, coding and filing mail, requisitions, vouchers, ledger cards, bills, receipts and other documents and/or materials; compiling data; performing simple file studies; preparing periodic reports; collecting, compiling and typing statistics and other related information; operating various office equipment including but not limited to personal computer, copying machine, transcription machine, as well as digital photo equipment and electronic fingerprint scanner, etc.; collecting fees and accounting for monies received; being responsible for reconciling and accounting for departmental funds; maintaining personnel records and schedules; maintaining departmental payroll including the input of information etc.; coordinating and maintaining day to day functions of special projects or operations, which may involve confidentiality; performing related duties as required.

Minimum qualifications for promotional status include continuous and permanent status in any city department as a Clerk, Junior Data Control Clerk, Junior Traffic Clerk, Stenographer, Typist, Account Clerk, Account Clerk-Typist, Account Clerk-Stenographer, Administrative Aide, Assessment Clerk, Mail Room Clerk, Stock Clerk or Telephone Operator for one year. In addition, all applicants must have completed a course in typing or keyboarding (course must be listed on application). For open competitive status, graduation from High School, GED or Equivalency Diploma and one year of full time clerical experience is required. Special requirements include submitting a school transcript verifying a successful typing or keyboarding course and successfully completing a polygraph exam prior to approval for appointment.

Additional information includes good knowledge of office practices, terminology and procedures; working knowledge of business arithmetic; clerical aptitude; ability to understand and interpret written material; ability to type accurately at the rate of 35 wpm using an alphanumeric keyboard; ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions; ability to be trained in the operation of a personal computer and various electronic equipment; ability to organize and handle detail work; ability to deal with citizens under stressful conditions; ability to get along well with others; excellent moral character; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.