Police Officer Trainee

City of Portsmouth • Portsmouth, VA

10d

About The Position

Under general supervision, the Police Officer Trainee performs general law enforcement duties, including enforcing federal, state, and local laws and protecting the lives, property, and rights of citizens. The position reports to the Sergeant. Individual assignments are determined by the supervisor based on workload and department needs.

The role includes patrolling assigned areas, responding to calls and complaints, investigating crimes and accidents, assisting at crime scenes, maintaining surveillance, interviewing people, apprehending and booking suspects, and preparing reports and other documentation. The officer may also direct traffic, enforce parking regulations, monitor vehicle speeds, conduct checks, and testify in court.

Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, or an equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities. Selected applicants must be available for all assigned shifts, which may include day or night shifts, and must have reached age 21 by the time of DCJS certification. The job requires the ability to perform heavy work and operate vehicles, firearms, communication equipment, and other equipment. The City of Portsmouth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED, or an equivalent combination of training and experience providing the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Must be at least 21 years old by the time of DCJS certification.
• Must be available to work all assigned shifts, including day or night shifts.
• General knowledge of modern law enforcement practices, procedures, investigative techniques, and relevant local, state, and federal laws and processes.
• Knowledge of city streets, roads, highways, and geographic and socioeconomic characteristics, as well as legal papers and service practices.
• Skill in using firearms and law enforcement equipment; sound judgment in routine and emergency situations; and the ability to interpret and apply laws.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, testify effectively in court, and interact tactfully and firmly with the public.
• Must pass the required strength and agility test.
• Must meet the listed eligibility and background standards, including disqualifying criteria concerning specified drug use or convictions, DUI history, driver’s license status and record, and military discharge.
• Must be physically able to operate a motor vehicle, firearms and defense devices, a two-way radio, and office equipment; exert up to 150 pounds of force occasionally; and perform work rated Heavy Work.
• Must be able to communicate orally and by two-way radio; read reports and records; prepare written materials; follow instructions; and use logical reasoning, basic mathematics, and hand-eye-foot coordination.

Responsibilities

• Patrol an assigned area, monitor radio calls, inspect troublesome areas, check business security, respond to complaint calls, assist with investigations, and advise citizens on crime prevention.
• Investigate crimes, conduct preliminary investigations and interrogations, execute arrest and search warrants, apprehend and book suspects, determine appropriate charges, prepare initial and supplemental reports, and testify in court.
• Assist senior officers at crime scenes by searching for, analyzing, and gathering evidence using procedures such as photography, fingerprint detection and identification, and footprint casting.
• Maintain surveillance of individuals and groups suspected of criminal activity, and interview informants and witnesses.
• Investigate accidents, secure and clear accident scenes, direct traffic, assist disabled motorists, enforce parking regulations, monitor vehicle speeds with radar, conduct criminal and driving checks, and issue summonses or warnings.
• Prepare case files, accident reports, evidence vouchers, vehicle maintenance reports, tow sheets, fingerprint cards, and other forms and reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned and comply with city and regulatory safety and housekeeping standards.

What This Job Offers

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