Police Officer (Lateral)

Job Description

Must be a KY certified Police Officer or approved by the Department of Criminal Justice for transferable out-of-state police certification credentials. The Police Officer is a position responsible for general police duty using marked police cruisers, bicycle units, and foot patrol, evidence collection, and criminal investigation. These duties include the patrol of city streets, protection of life and property, response to service calls, and enforcement of federal, state and local laws and ordinances.

• May work alone on a designated rotating or fixed shift while patrolling an assigned section of the City.
• Emergency response to situations in other areas may be required during normal shift duty.
• Investigative fieldwork may be required including crime scene preservation, evidence collection, and crime scene processing.
• Operates under the general supervision of a higher-ranking officer.
• Significant latitude and use of independent judgement is necessary to interpret and enforce laws and ordinances.
• The ability to maintain and project a diplomatic, fair, and calm demeanor to other assigned officers and the public during tense situations is required.
• The capability to quickly assess a situation and determine the potential threat level to officer and public safety and respond appropriately.
• Daily incident reports must be accurately completed for use in court proceedings.
• Shift schedule rotates days/evening shifts with 4-ten hour work weeks with every other weekend off.
• Additional $4,300/year state incentive available.
• Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program available for eligible employees.

Description of Duties

• Maintain all Police Officer qualifications and abilities required by Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC), City of Hopkinsville, and City of Hopkinsville Police Department.
• Perform well under stress.
• Respond and assist other officers to respond to citizen complaints, domestic problems, neighborhood disturbances and/or nuisances.
• Use of proper radio technique, emergency equipment, radar devices, and the safe operation of the patrol cruiser.
• Ability and mental acuity to direct traffic, recognize potential public safety problems, detect unusual behavior pattern of a suspect or citizen and react accordingly.
• Diplomatic and courteous when dealing with fellow officers, supervisors, citizens or suspects regardless of the situation.
• Professional appearance and bearing to provide testimony during court proceedings.
• Physically capable of subduing and placing anyone wanted or violating the law into custody.
• Communicate clearly and comprehend communications from others.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Considerable knowledge of city geographic characteristics, road locations, and interior layout of major buildings.
• Thorough knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local laws and ordinances as well as department policy and procedure.
• Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of modern law enforcement techniques.
• Prepare and complete accurate daily activity reports using clear and concise grammar and punctuation.
• Capable of the safe and effective use of crime prevention arms and equipment to ensure minimal use of force is applied to defuse a situation or subdue a suspect.
• Respond to questions by the public concerning legal advice and appropriate action to consider when addressing the citizen complaint.
• Assist other law enforcement agencies to ensure officer safety and department policy is maintained during joint operations.
• Perform preventive maintenance on equipment and report discrepancies to appropriate person.
• If certified by KLEC as a Field Training Officer, he/she will perform the necessary related duty associated with the evaluation of a Police Officer Trainee.
• Use standard communication equipment such as telephone and wireless radio in a courteous and professional manner.
• Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Qualifications

• Successfully complete the Kentucky Law Enforcement Academy or an equivalent approved state law enforcement academy.
• Successfully complete the City of Hopkinsville Field Training Officer Program.
• Successfully complete the City of Hopkinsville Firearms Certification Program.
• Complete 40 hours of KLEC approved continuing education annually.
• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator license.
• Meet all job description changes within six (6) months.

Supplemental Information

• Considerable skill in the safe and effective use of all available crime prevention equipment.
• Basic computer skills and use of prescribed software.
• Possess mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and good physical condition to work in all weather conditions and environments.

The City of Hopkinsville offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, flexible spending account (FSA), dental, vision, life insurance, vacation, sick leave, holidays, and deferred compensation plans. Federal Student Loan Forgiveness Program available for eligible employees.