1st Class Police Officer

Position Description

Performs a variety of routine and complex police/public safety work consisting of preventative patrol, community policing activities, criminal investigations, vehicle crash investigations, enforcement of Federal and State Statutes, enforcement of Valparaiso University Rules & Regulations, traffic control activities, safety checks, event and site security, responding to medical and fire calls, providing emergency response to community member requests, as well as performing all other police/public safety functions within the Valparaiso University Campus.

Must support the mission of Valparaiso University and the Valparaiso University Police Department to ensure the safety, security, well-being, and retention of the university's students, faculty, staff, guests, and property.

• Patrol the campus and nearby city streets on foot, bicycle, ATV, or in a police vehicle to preserve law and order, prevent and discover crime, lend assistance to citizens, and report situations endangering health, safety, and convenience of the campus community.
• Answer calls for service and impartially investigate complaints.
• Investigate crimes, campus rule violations, legally arrest persons, or issue state and campus citations; participate in prosecutions or campus judicial processes; work with community to reduce crime.
• Provide campus policing services, including safety programming, bank details, Clery reporting, funeral escorts, animal control, medical and fire assists, motorist assists, and other services.
• Perform security protection and traffic control for events and activities on and near campus, including uniform and undercover details.
• Complete all required reports accurately and promptly.

• Hold an Indiana Law Enforcement Academy certification or equivalent law enforcement academy/experience.
• At least two years of law enforcement experience.

• Must be able to adapt to changes and perform duties under life‑threatening or high‑stress environments. Minimum high school education. Maintain a current driver's license.
• Logical and/or critical thinking to solve problems and interpret instructions. Ability to communicate effectively in English, verbally and/or in writing, with department, campus community, and general public. Operation of tools and equipment.
• Ability to learn applicable laws, ordinances, campus policies, rules and regulations, and department procedures (SOPs); perform work requiring good physical condition; communicate effectively; establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, peers and supervisors; exercise sound judgment, follow verbal and written instructions; learn campus and nearby geography.

All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon a thorough background check, including criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, personal/professional references, and, if applicable, credit history. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates.

To be considered, submit a cover letter, resume, list of three professional references, and answer all application questions. Address the cover letter to Lt Keith Thompson Jr., Lieutenant, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana.