Police Officer I - School Resource Officer

Blacksburg, Town of • Blacksburg, VA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Upon completion or in execution of a Basic Law Enforcement Certification, the Police Officer I performs police and law enforcement work involving a variety of general police assignments, including but not limited to: enforcing laws, investigating criminal activity, ensuring the safety of the public, collecting evidence, testifying in court, maintaining files and records, preparing reports, and related work as apparent or assigned. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Police Sergeant. This position serves as a direct placement into an elementary school within the Town of Blacksburg as a school resource officer. The School Resource Officer (SRO) is a sworn law enforcement officer assigned to an elementary school to promote a safe and secure learning environment. The SRO serves as a law enforcement officer, mentor, educator, and community liaison while fostering positive relationships among students, staff, parents, and the community. The officer works collaboratively with school administrators to address safety concerns, prevent criminal activity, and support student success.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED
• Possession of Basic Virginia DCJS Law Enforcement Certification
• MUST BE 21 YEARS OLD OR OLDER
• Valid state-issued driver's license with a satisfactory driving record; ability to obtain a Virginia driver's license within 90 days of employment
• Possess or have the ability to obtain DCJS Basic SRO certification within one year of employment
• General knowledge of law enforcement methods, practices, and procedures
• Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Police Department
• Knowledge of the geography of the Town and the location of important buildings
• Skill in the use of firearms and the operation of an automobile
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions
• Ability to communicate ideas effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to prepare clear and concise reports
• Ability to analyze situations and to adopt quick, effective, and reasonable courses of action with due regard to surrounding hazards and circumstances
• Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with associates, other public safety agencies, and the general public

Nice To Haves

• May be required to possess other specialized law enforcement certifications depending on departmental requirements and DCJS standards

Responsibilities

• Provide a visible law enforcement presence on school property and at school-related events
• Maintain safety and security of students, staff, and visitors through proactive patrols and threat assessment
• Respond to emergencies, criminal incidents, medical emergencies, and other situations requiring law enforcement intervention
• Investigate criminal activity, accidents, and incidents occurring on school grounds or involving students as appropriate
• Assist school administration in developing and implementing school safety and emergency response plans
• Participate in threat assessment teams and provide guidance regarding school safety concerns
• Build positive relationships with students through mentoring, counseling, and informal interactions
• Collaborate with school counselors, social workers, administrators, and community agencies to address student needs and behavioral concerns
• Enforce applicable state and local laws while exercising discretion consistent with school-based policing best practices
• Prepare reports, maintain records, and complete required documentation related to incidents and investigations
• Assist with traffic control and pedestrian safety during student arrival and dismissal periods
• Foster trust and open communication between law enforcement and the school community
• Operates a patrol vehicle safely, in emergency and non-emergency modes, or walks to observe for violations of traffic laws, suspicious activities or persons, and disturbances of law and order
• Responds to radio calls, assignments, and complaints; issues traffic citations; serves warrants, summons, etc.
• Makes arrests, completes arrest records, and testifies in court
• Operates in-car computer and related software
• Prepares detailed reports, forms, and correspondence on activities, assignments, and complaint reports
• Provides police escorts, directs traffic
• Performs residential and commercial checks
• Interviews victims and witnesses to obtain necessary information regarding crime, accident, violation, etc.
• Investigates crimes, collects evidence; conducts searches; investigates traffic accidents
• Assists other law enforcement agencies when requested or assigned
• Participates in a variety of in-service and special training programs

Benefits

• 40 hours of recruit leave is available for VA Certified Officers
• Eligibility for Hazardous Duty Supplement through the Virginia Retirement System
• Tuition assistance for job-related college education after 1 year of employment ($2400/maximum per fiscal year)
• Take Home Vehicle Program
• On-site personal trainer
• Abbreviated field training for Virginia certified Police Officers
• Shift Differential
• Eligibility for Comprehensive Benefits package including a VRS Retirement Plan; Medical, Dental, & Vision Plans; Employee Assistance Program; Flexible Spending Account (FSA) & Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA); and wellness programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED