Police Officer

Forest Preserve of DuPage - Police Officer

Position Title:

Police Officer

Concentration:
Law Enforcement

Level of Entry:
Entry Level

Agency:
Forest Preserve of Du Page

Address: 3S580 Naperville Road

City:
Wheaton

State: IL Zipcode: 60187

Contact:
Minya Garrett

Phone:

Email Address: mgarrett

The Police Officer position is responsible for patrolling District properties and enforcing state laws and District ordinances in accordance with departmental policies and procedures. The role supports the protection of visitors, natural resources, and facilities within the preserves.

• Patrols District property by ATV, bicycle, boat, foot, and vehicle to detect violations, ensure the safety of visitors, and protect resources and facilities.
• Enforces applicable local, state, and federal laws and ordinances through proactive and responsive patrol; identifies, detains, and arrests offenders; issues warnings and citations; and handles all interactions professionally and courteously.
• Responds to emergency calls on a 24‑hour basis; serves as a first responder, provides first aid, and requests additional assistance as needed.
• Investigates crimes, accidents, and suspicious activity; conducts follow‑up investigations; interviews victims, witnesses, and suspects; and monitors remote areas for illegal activity.
• Collects, preserves, and documents evidence; secures crime scenes; prepares reports, citations, warrants, and legal documents; and testifies in court to support prosecution.
• Addresses complaints, manages crowds, directs traffic, assists motorists, and remains alert for missing persons, stolen vehicles, and other public safety concerns.
• Ensures the security of District buildings and grounds by inspecting and investigating suspicious conditions or activities.
• Participates with other law enforcement agencies for mutual aid responses and support on conservation‑related matters.
• Provides information and educates the public regarding preservation of land, facilities, programs, safety, District ordinances, rules and regulations.
• Demonstrates strong judgment, communication, and leadership skills; provides guidance to others; manages multiple priorities; and adapts to changing situations.
• Fosters a working environment that promotes safe work habits; becomes familiar with and observes all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; follows all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and supports all aspects of the District’s safety and risk management program; keeps work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; immediately reports all unsafe conditions and incidents.
• Maintains a supportive working environment and demonstrates a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Must be at least 21 years of age or older at the time of hire.
• Associate’s degree in criminal justice, natural resources, or a related field; two (2) years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Degree requirement may be waived with qualifying U.S. military service (DD‑214 required) and honorable discharge. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Valid Driver’s license in good standing.
• Demonstrated interest in the preservation of natural resources and an ability to understand the role of police officer in the management of recreational areas.
• Must successfully pass a Peace Officer Wellness Evaluation Report (P.O.W.E.R.), medical exam, psychological evaluation, and comprehensive background investigation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Illinois Peace Officer certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Must have an Illinois Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) card or obtain upon hire.
• Individuals must maintain the minimum qualification standards set by the State of Illinois for firearms proficiency and all state‑mandated training courses.
• Ability to obtain CPR, AED, and First Aid certification within six (6) months of hire.
• Familiarity with DuPage County geography, with the ability to quickly and efficiently navigate to all District preserves and facilities.
• Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated…