Lateral Police Officer

Metra•Chicago, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient service. The Police Department ensures the preservation of peace and public safety throughout Metra's 6-county region. Safeguard the lives of Metra commuters, it's employees and those that use the Metra Rail System. Provide support and assistance during an emergency or crisis situation. In partnership with Department of Homeland Security, as well as our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, develop a safe environment. Through cooperative, proactive law enforcement and a highly visible police presence, the Metra Police Department will ensure the safety of all persons and property associated with the Metra Rail System. Reporting to the Chief of Police, Metra Police Officers are sworn officers responsible for safeguarding the Metra rail system; specializing in the maintenance of order and balance throughout the transportation system; providing testimony and support for court proceedings; rendering first-aid; and taking appropriate action in the interest of public safety. Performing proactive policing, enforcing laws and ordinances, and apprehending criminals; protecting life and property, and preserving peace and order in public gatherings such as rallies, protests, and meetings on Metra properties. Performing preliminary criminal and fatality investigations, and patrolling rail yards, stations and other locations driving police vehicles, riding trains or bicycles, or walking. Locating victims/witnesses, documents and information, conducting interviews, and recording statements. Identifying, collecting, and preserving physical evidence, preparing reports, and testifying in court as an expert witness. Performing lifesaving procedures. Performing other related duties as required or assigned.

Requirements

Applicants must be current Illinois certified Officers and provide their PTIB number.
Must possess a High School diploma or its equivalent.
Must be 21 years of age at time of appointment as a sworn officer.
Illinois residents must have a valid Firearms Owners Identification card before the time of hire.
Must submit to and successfully pass a comprehensive personal and professional background investigation including fingerprints.
Physical and mental strength to carry out the daily activities of the position.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to exude confidence and a calm demeanor.
Must be able to analyze problems, evaluate alternatives, and develop appropriate and effective solutions and alternatives.
Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality, as well as exhibit good judgment and reason.
Qualified candidates are hired as Metra recruits and are required to attend and successfully complete an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705.
The Basic Law Enforcement Training course is waived for individuals currently certified as a Police Officer in the State of Illinois or who have successfully completed an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705 or who are able to obtain a waiver from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board for out of state training prior to employment.
Must be a United States citizen.
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time.
Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb aboard train locomotives, rail cars and related railroad equipment, as well as climb over obstacles while wearing uniformed police equipment.
Must be willing to travel within Metra’s 6-county region.
Must be available on-call 24-hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year, including weekends and holidays.
Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Nice To Haves

Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act.

Responsibilities

Safeguard the lives of Metra commuters, it's employees and those that use the Metra Rail System.
Provide support and assistance during an emergency or crisis situation.
Develop a safe environment in partnership with Department of Homeland Security, as well as federal, state, and local law enforcement partners.
Ensure the safety of all persons and property associated with the Metra Rail System through cooperative, proactive law enforcement and a highly visible police presence.
Safeguard the Metra rail system.
Maintain order and balance throughout the transportation system.
Provide testimony and support for court proceedings.
Render first-aid.
Take appropriate action in the interest of public safety.
Perform proactive policing, enforce laws and ordinances, and apprehend criminals.
Protect life and property, and preserve peace and order in public gatherings such as rallies, protests, and meetings on Metra properties.
Perform preliminary criminal and fatality investigations.
Patrol rail yards, stations and other locations driving police vehicles, riding trains or bicycles, or walking.
Locate victims/witnesses, documents and information, conduct interviews, and record statements.
Identify, collect, and preserve physical evidence.
Prepare reports, and testify in court as an expert witness.
Perform lifesaving procedures.
Perform other related duties as required or assigned.