Police Officer

Statement of Duties

The Police Officer performs general or special duty police work in the maintenance of law and order, in the protection of life and property, and in the prevention and suppression of crime. This position is responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under his/her direction and control. Performs all other related work as required.

The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various type of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

• Exercises authority consistent with the obligations imposed by the oath of office and according to Massachusetts laws, local bylaws, policies and procedures. Assists all persons needing police assistance.
• Detects and prevents crime through patrol. Patrols assigned areas throughout town to prevent crime and enforce laws. Apprehends persons violating the law or wanted by law enforcement.
• Performs building security checks. Observes and questions suspicious persons. Checks city streets and attends public assemblies.
• Directs and expedites the flow of traffic at assigned locations to prevent accidents, protect individuals and equipment, and ensure the free flow of traffic. Enforces parking ordinances and motor vehicle laws; issues traffic and parking warnings and citations to violators. Reports malfunctioning streetlights, tree hazards, and any conditions endangering public safety.
• Preserves peace at public gatherings, neighborhood disputes, and family quarrels. Renders first aid as a first responder to persons requiring medical services until EMTs arrive.
• Assists citizens requesting assistance or information. Counsel juveniles and adults when necessary and refers them to appropriate persons or agencies.
• Serves or delivers criminal warrants, summonses, subpoenas, and other official papers promptly and accurately when so directed. May confer with court prosecutor and other court officers, when assigned, testify in court.
• Responds to public emergencies including ambulance and fire department calls.
• Completes detailed reports on all crimes, vehicle accidents, and other incidents requiring police attention; completes arrest report and/or investigation reports when necessary.
• Regular attendance and punctuality at the workplace are required.
• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situations dictate.

Education and Experience: A High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Advanced degree in Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, or a related field preferred as is military service. Must be at least 21 years old to be appointed to a police officer position and acquire a License to Carry a Firearm.

Special

Mandatory Requirements:

• Certification as a Police Officer by the Massachusetts Police Training Committee (MPTC).
• Eligible for POST certification under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 6E.
• Must possess Valid Class D Motor Vehicle Operator License.
• Possession or ability to acquire a License to Carry a Firearm (Massachusetts Class A License to Carry).
• Pass and complete a thorough background investigation in accordance with agency policy and practice.
• Under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 41 Section 101A “no person who smokes any tobacco product shall be eligible for appointment as a police officer or firefighter in a city or town and no person so appointed after said date shall continue in such office or position if such person thereafter smokes any tobacco products…”

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of 1-year in police, security or customer service preferred.
• Certification in CPR and as a First Responder.
• Training and qualification in the use of handguns.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skill

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the statutes, local laws, law enforcement rules and regulations, and the court system. Thorough knowledge of rules of conduct as they pertain to a law enforcement officer carrying out duties (i.e. arrest, search and seizure, investigative detention, Miranda…