Public Safety Officer

Position Summary

The Public Safety Officer is responsible for the enforcement of traffic and criminal laws, institutional policies, and parking regulations at an institution of higher education. This position is governed by law enforcement standards, departmental and institutional policy. It works under general supervision in a team-oriented setting and reports to the department chain-of-command consisting of a Lieutenant and Chief.

• Patrol University properties to detect and prevent violations of laws and regulations; arrest and detain offenders and issue citations as necessary; assist in providing traffic and/or crowd control during periods of high volume and density.
• Operate emergency and non‑emergency vehicles and communications equipment; investigate traffic accidents, reports of criminal offenses, violations of institutional policy and other incidents; complete accurate and detailed reports; and defuse disturbances.
• Provide emergency first‑aid and assist other law‑enforcement agencies and emergency personnel; respond to alarms; conduct interviews and searches as necessary; monitor roadways and parking areas for motorist and pedestrian safety.
• Use tactics, including force as trained and equipped, in preserving the safety of citizens, oneself, and fellow officers; testify in court.
• Provide assistance as requested or needed by locking or unlocking buildings and offices; assist stranded motorists; communicate general and public safety information to students, staff, faculty, and the general public.
• Detect, investigate, and report breaches of facilities, property damage, missing property, and hazardous conditions; maintain uniforms and equipment; attend practical training.
• Maintain professional appearance and attitude; assist in safety and security planning and implementation for special events.
• Assist in planning and implementing public service programs and training.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates. Requires consistent on‑time attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

• United States citizen.
• At least 21 years of age at time of appointment.
• Free of any felony conviction(s).
• Free of convictions involving cases of domestic abuse.
• Good character as determined by thorough background investigation.
• Formal equivalent of a high school diploma.
• Valid, state‑issued motor vehicle operator's license.
• Safe driving record.
• Steady work history.
• Certified as a police officer in Arkansas within 12 months of employment.

Certified as a police officer in Arkansas or a state with reciprocity agreement.

• General law‑enforcement methods and techniques; traffic and criminal laws; parking regulations; enforce laws and regulations, direct traffic, and maintain order.
• Operate vehicles used in patrol duties.
• General knowledge of computers.
• Operate firearms safely and accurately; pass annual state requirement for firearms certification, as well as departmental requirements.
• Problem solving: identify and resolve problems in a timely manner; gather and analyze information skillfully.
• Interpersonal skills: maintain confidential information with absolute discretion; remain open to others' ideas and try new things.
• Communication: write and speak clearly and persuasively; read and interpret written information; prepare written reports and logs; edit work for accuracy and thoroughness.
• Adaptability: adapt to changes in work environment, manage competing demands, and deal with frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.
• Dependability: arrive at work on time consistently; follow instructions; respond to management direction; solicit feedback to improve performance.
• Know university policy as it relates to the position.

• Occasional exposure to hazardous and/or stressful situations.
• Shift work to include all weekends and all holidays.
• Stand for long periods of time in indoor settings, outdoor settings, and in all weather conditions at all times of day.
• Give chase on foot and apprehend and detain subjects as permitted…