Police Officer

Job Description

Police Officers perform a wide range of tasks to promote overall public safety. Work involves protecting lives, property, and rights of the public; investigating criminal activity, and assisting in any university function as needed providing safety and security services. Officers also are responsible for testifying in court as well as preparing accurate and detailed reports. In addition to the physical skills needed to be an effective officer, Police Officers require strong ethical behavior, self‑discipline, diplomacy, and human compassion.

Multiple positions will be filled from this recruitment.

Knowledge
:

• Some knowledge of criminal laws, case laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, juvenile procedures, effective policing practices and due process.
• Knowledge of effective communication strategies.

Skill
:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Effective problem‑solving skills and techniques, including when serving diverse community members or situations.
• Good observation and memory skills.

Ability
:

• Ability to interpret, explain and apply established policies, procedures, case laws, and regulations.
• Ability to treat others with dignity and respect regardless of the situation.
• Ability to make decisions based on established standards and accurate assessment of situations.
• Ability to initiate actions to meet established objectives or deadlines.
• Ability to complete required documentation and reports accurately.
• Ability to effectively utilize Windows, Apple iOS, Microsoft Office Suite and similar products.
• Ability to operate police mobile recording equipment.
• Ability to work as a member of a team and independently.
• Ability to work with aggressive or emotionally unstable persons while maintaining professionalism.
• Ability to provide services with superior community relations skills.
• Ability to deal courteously with a culturally diverse community.
• Ability to work shift work, during inclement weather, or emergency situations.

Valid Virginia driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 60 days of appointment; must have an insurable driving record.

High school diploma or GED. Must successfully complete a Virginia law enforcement training academy and achieve state certification within one year of hire. Must also successfully achieve VCIN certificate within one year of the date of hire. Must successfully complete/pass an extensive background investigation, physical, and psychological testing.

Some customer service or experience performing services for the public. Several years of experience in law enforcement, preferably in a university setting. Certification as a Law Enforcement Officer as mandated by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Some experience performing public safety or security duties. CPR and First Aid certification. Formal education beyond secondary level with a Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Possession of a current VCIN and General Instructor certifications.

University Police Department employees are considered essential personnel for emergency conditions/inclement weather and are expected to report to duty during these conditions. Must work a rotating shift schedule which includes days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Some overtime is required.

Must successfully complete an extensive background investigation to include polygraph and psychological testing. Must pass a medical physical, obtain VCIN certification and state certification as a Police Officer within one year of hire, and pass the ODU Police Department physical abilities test. Must pass a Police Officer Selection Test (POST) with a minimum overall score of 70 percent. Subject to random drug testing.

This position is designated as sensitive. A fingerprint‑based criminal history check will be required of the final candidate.

Salary is commensurate with education and experience and begins at $52,000.