Lateral Police Patrol Officer

Starting Pay: $74,430 - $95,380 Sign-On Bonus: $5,000

Engage in a variety of policing activities, including patrols, investigations, traffic control, and emergency response. Exercise autonomy and make critical decisions during emergencies, working collaboratively with fellow officers and community partners.

Why Join?
The Decatur Police Department (DPD) is dedicated to maintaining a team of diverse, highly-qualified officers to serve and protect the City of Decatur, Illinois. DPD offers specialized training, promotional opportunities, and diverse career paths within law enforcement.
Key Benefits & Opportunities
• Balanced Work-Life:Enjoy a 12-hour patrol schedule with every other weekend off (Friday/Saturday/Sunday), totaling approximately 182 working days per year.

• Community-Centric Policing:Foster relationships with diverse communities through neighborhood policing and community partnerships.
• Advanced Training & Development:Access to specialized training and promotional opportunities across various law enforcement fields.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities:Work in modern, technology-equipped environments.
• Competitive Benefits:Competitive salary, excellent retirement plan, comprehensive health benefits, paid vacation, and sick leave.
• Dedicated Health Center:Free check-ups/physicals, chronic condition management, bloodwork, immunizations, and numerous free prescriptions for employees and dependents.
• Employee Wellness Programs:Comprehensive fitness, and wellness initiatives including mental health support.
.• Tuition Reimbursement:Support for ongoing education and professional development.

• Patrol & Enforcement:Monitor city areas to maintain law and order, enforce traffic laws, and uphold local ordinances.
• Emergency Response:Respond to calls, investigate complaints, and handle a wide variety of incidents. Conduct follow-up investigations as assigned.
• Crime & Accident Management:Gather evidence, interview witnesses, make arrests, and prepare case information for prosecution. Testify in court when required.
• Traffic Control:Conduct traffic duties, operate radar units, apprehend violators, issue tickets, and direct traffic.
• Conflict Resolution:Address disputes and disturbances, make arrests when necessary, and prepare detailed reports.
• Additional Responsibilities:Perform related duties as assigned, supporting the overall DPD mission.

• Age & Citizenship:Must be aged 21 to 35 (possible exceptions up to four years for those over 35 with specialized police-related training or experience). Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Legal & Professional Standing:No felony convictions; certain misdemeanor convictions may disqualify applicants. Must meet Illinois FOID card requirements.
• Driver's License:Must possess a valid Illinois driver's license.
• Educational Background:High school diploma or equivalent required. Further education and police-related training are advantageous.
• Physical & Mental Fitness:Good health, moral character, and emotional resilience are essential. Physical agility and quick decision-making skills are required.

Qualifications for Experienced (Lateral) Officer:
I
llinois Certified Police Officers: Persons may apply as a lateral police officer if certified as a full-time police officer in the State of Illinois. There is no requirement for prior service length. Proof of certification as a full-time officer must be submitted at time of application.

Out-of-State Certified Police Officers: Persons may apply as a lateral police officer if certified as a full-time police officer in another state and have successfully completed a probationary period of at least six months while employed full time with a law enforcement agency in the state where they were training. Proof of certification as a full-time police officer must be submitted at time of application.
In addition, applicants may be required to complete a written test:
Lateral applicant with at least two years of full-time police experience: The written test will be waived if the experience occurred during the five years preceding the application. Documentation to verify the experience may be requested by the City of Decatur which has sole and final…