Police Officer Trainee

Under close supervision, this position serves as the entry level trainee classification where employees are required to attend and successfully complete a Police Academy to learn the proper procedures and policies in law enforcement and crime prevention. Reports to a Police Training Sergeant.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Learns techniques to evaluate situations and determines the most appropriate course of action including pursuing or apprehending suspects; interviewing victims, witnesses, suspects, and other contact persons; crime scene and evidence preservation.

Studies various criminal activities requiring law enforcement intervention such as homicides, sexual assaults, robberies, property crimes, domestic violence, narcotics related activities, crimes by and against juveniles, and other crimes.

Studies guidelines to present court testimony and maintain associated case files; becomes familiar with completing forms, preparing reports, and correspondence.

Performs other duties as required.

Interpersonal Relationships – Develops and maintains cooperative and professional relationships with employees, managers, and representatives from other departments and organizations. Shares knowledge with staff for mutual and departmental benefit.

Critical Thinking -Uses logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Communication – Ability to communicate ideas effectively, including the preparation of reports and logs. Ability to listen and understand directions, information and ideas presented verbally and in writing.

Judgment & Decision Making – Ability to anticipate, identify and evaluate potentially dangerous, unusual or deviating situations and to exercise appropriate judgment to establish priorities and take prompt action for problem resolution. Evaluates the best method of research and then exercising appropriate judgment in establishing priorities and resolving complex matters. Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Graduation from high school or GED or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Shall have reached his/her 21st birthday by the time of their Department of Criminal Justice Services Certification.

Must pass an initial written test and physical agility.

Requires satisfactory results from a medical, psychological evaluation and pre-employment substance abuse testing and is subject to random alcohol and controlled substance testing.

A valid Virginia's driver's license prior to employment with an acceptable driving record to include a zero or positive point balance and are required to refrain from the use of tobacco.

Must obtain and maintain for continued employment U.S. Citizenship prior to appointment as a Police Officer; all State requirements for Police Officers as specified in Virginia Code; all federal and state requirements to carry a firearm; and may require certifications such as Breathalyzer certification.

Must be able to wear a standard issued duty belt with all applicable instrumentation.

Must successfully complete a certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy and associated field training within one year of employment.

Additional training may be necessary to meet the requirements of some division assignments.

Requires a comprehensive background investigation to include a local, state and federal criminal history check; sex offender registry and credit check.

CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION DISQUALIFICATION OF APPLICANTS FOR POLICE OFFICER
RULE 12 (A)
The Commission reserves the right to refuse to further examine an applicant, or after examination, to further certify as eligible an applicant who:

(a) Does not meet the established preliminary requirements as set forth in these rules for the position for which application is made.

(b) Fails to pass the required test in strength and agility.

(c) Has been involved in the following activities:
i. Possession or use of marijuana or any of its derivatives within the previous six (6) months.
ii. The conviction of any substantiated illegal act including the…