Police Officer

Department: Police, City of Waycross Police Department

Job Summary:   This position is responsible for the enforcement of federal, state, and local laws and the protection of life and property utilizing community policing standards.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned

• Patrols an assigned zone to detect and deter criminal activity and traffic violations.
• Responds to calls relayed by communications officers, including domestic disputes, assaults, burglaries, traffic accidents, lost or missing persons searches, public service duties, stranded motorists, and others.
• Conducts preliminary investigations into traffic accidents and other incidents, including interviewing victims, complainants, and witnesses; gathering information and evidence; and securing crime scenes.
• Apprehends, arrests, and processes offenders, including fugitives; summons witnesses.
• Provides assistance and backup support to other officers and law enforcement agencies as necessary.
• Provides first aid and CPR to victims as necessary and assists motorists.
• Provides traffic direction as needed for events such as parades, funerals, ball games, and school crossings.
• Testifies in judicial proceedings as necessary.
• Transports inmates.
• Completes all required reports and forms, including accident and incident reports.
• Inspects and maintains an assigned patrol car and uniform; coordinates and schedules routine maintenance.
• Prepares and serves criminal warrants.
• May be assigned as a Resource Officer for the school system:  maintains visible presence on the campus and at school-sponsored activities; operates and maintains surveillance cameras; monitors student behavior to detect potential drug or gang activity; prepares reports regarding incidents on school grounds.
• May be assigned to the K-9 unit: maintains a canine in a state of readiness for immediate deployment as needed.
• Attends ongoing training classes as required.
• Remains on call for after-hours emergencies as assigned.
• Performs public speaking engagements for area church, civic, and school groups as requested.
• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

Required Abilities and Skills:

• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, criminal and traffic laws, and department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system and court procedures.
• Knowledge of the geography and streets of the city.
• Skill in the use of police vehicles, firearms, surveillance and audiovisual equipment, communications equipment, and other standard and specialized equipment.
• Skill in interview and interrogation techniques.
• Skill in restraining persons without causing physical harm.
• Skill in public and interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

Physical Demands:

The work is typically performed while sitting, standing, walking, running, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and heavy objects, uses equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity, distinguishes between shades of color, and must be able to use the physical force necessary to arrest and restrain persons.

Work Environment:

The work is typically performed indoors, in a vehicle, and outdoors. The employee may be exposed to contagious or infectious diseases, inclement weather, and life-threatening situations. The work requires the use of protective clothing and devices.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must have high school diploma (or GED equivalent)
• Must be 21 years of age or older 
• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent. No experience requirements.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Georgia for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• Ability to meet current requirements set forth by the Police Standards and Training Council for the State of Georgia.

Equal Opportunity Employer – Drug Free Workplace