Police Officer; Patrol

The Police Officer is a sworn law enforcement position responsible for the prevention and detection of crime, protection of life and property, and enforcement of laws and ordinances. Officers provide proactive and reactive police services through patrol, response to calls for service, preliminary investigations, and community engagement. This position requires the ability to operate independently while exercising sound judgment, professionalism, and adherence to departmental policy, legal standards, and modern policing practices.

Work involves exposure to hazardous and potentially violent situations.

• Patrol assigned areas by vehicle, foot, or other means to prevent crime and enforce laws.
• Respond to calls for service including emergencies, crimes in progress, and public assistance requests.
• Conduct preliminary investigations, gather evidence, interview victims and witnesses, and document findings.
• Make arrests and issue citations in accordance with applicable laws and departmental policy.
• Prepare detailed reports, citations, and documentation using departmental systems.
• Testify in court and assist with case preparation as required.
• Conduct traffic enforcement and investigate traffic crashes.
• Provide assistance to the public, including conflict resolution and referral to appropriate resources.
• Engage in community policing efforts to promote positive relationships between the department and the public.
• Operate departmental vehicles and equipment safely and effectively.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

• Ensure compliance with departmental policies, procedures, and legal standards.
• Properly collect, handle, and document evidence in accordance with chain-of-custody requirements.
• Utilize departmental technology systems for reporting, communication, and information gathering.
• Maintain situational awareness and officer safety practices at all times.
• Coordinate with supervisors and other units as needed during incidents.
• Participate in ongoing training and maintain required certifications.

High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Must meet all state requirements for certification as a law enforcement officer or be able to obtain certification within a prescribed timeframe as determined by the agency at hire.
• Knowledge of, or ability to learn modern police methods, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge of, or ability to learn federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of, or ability to learn departmental policies and procedures.
• Ability to analyze situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and comprehensive reports.
• Ability to effectively use modern technology including computers, mobile data systems, body-worn cameras, and radio communications.
• Ability to gather, document, and preserve evidence.
• Ability to interact with the public in a professional and respectful manner.
• Ability to remember details, observations, and events.
• Ability to follow oral and written instructions and operate independently.
• Ability to apply de-escalation techniques and problem-solving strategies in field situations.

• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions and varied terrain.
• Ability to bend, lift, and carry objects.
• Ability to physically restrain individuals when necessary.
• Must meet departmental physical fitness standards.

Work is performed in field environments with exposure to hazardous, stressful, and potentially violent situations. Position requires shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Must be willing to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must maintain a valid Alabama driver’s license.
• Position is subject to random drug testing.
• Must complete all mandatory departmental training.
• Must maintain all required law enforcement certifications and qualifications.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties. Responsibilities may be modified as needed by the department.