Entry Level Police Officer

City of Longview WA•Longview, WA

73d•Onsite

About The Position

The Longview Police Department is seeking to add to its entry-level Police Officer eligibility list. Candidates must first complete a written exam and physical abilities test through Public Safety Testing (PST) before proceeding with the application process. A passing score from PST is required to submit an application, which will be used in the background process. Applicants must complete all sections of the application carefully and thoroughly, including work history and education. Voluntary positions can be listed as work history. The role involves providing first-line duty in protecting life and property, enforcing laws and ordinances, preserving peace, apprehending criminals, controlling non-criminal conduct, and providing services to the community. Police protection is provided 24 hours a day, with officers assigned to various shift lengths. Responsibilities include patrolling assigned areas by various means, observing properties, managing traffic, responding to calls for service, investigating crimes, preparing reports, performing public relations duties, and rendering assistance and first aid.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent
Must be 21 years of age (must be a minimum of 20 1/2 years of age to test)
U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident
Possess a valid driver's license
Successfully complete the 720 hour basic training academy during the initial period of employment
Possess a current State Department of L&I Basic First Aid Card or ability to obtain within 90 days
Certified by the Washington State Toxicologist in operation of the breathalyzer or ability to obtain within 90 days
Knowledge of American system of government, the judicial process, federal, state and local laws and ordinances
Knowledge of law enforcement policies and procedures
Knowledge of principles and practices of criminal investigation
Knowledge of identification and modern police administration
Knowledge of use and care of firearms and defensive weapons
Physically capable of driving a vehicle safely under various conditions, including emergencies
Frequently lifting, carrying, dragging, pulling and pushing objects of varying weight and size
Standing, walking and running for extended times over various distances and conditions, such as pursuing a running suspect through yards and over fences and walls
Observe and recognize people, activity, vehicles, street signs and environmental conditions from a reasonable distance during day and night
Use only force objectively necessary to control situations and persons, including combative or fleeing suspects
Able to operate a variety of firearms and weapons safely and proficiently
Occasional climbing stairs and/or ladders
Frequent bending/twisting at waist/knees/neck while performing duties
Occasional kneeling/crouching/crawling may be required in responding to emergency situations
Constant use of both hands and arms in reaching/handling/grasping/fingering while performing duties or while operating vehicle
Overhead reaching required
Constant use of sight, hearing and speech abilities necessary to perform essential tasks
Visual requirements include color and peripheral vision and hand/eye/foot coordination while operating vehicle
Able to read and understand English language documents
Legibly hand write accurate and grammatically correct reports
Communicate effectively orally, in writing, and using the police radio
Exercise good judgment in dealing with routine unusual situations
Learn and comprehend factual information, policies, procedures and rules, and use good judgment and discretion in applying same to changing conditions in similar and non-similar situations
Maintain composure and judgment during emergency or tense situations
Confront problems and enforce laws
Refuse to participate in or tolerate unethical behavior
Not be subject to impeachment in court due to character, reputation, history of dishonesty or violation of law, including drug violations
Act courteously toward others
Take direction from supervisors
Maintain good working relationships with other members of the Department and City
Accept criticism and apply to performance
Be dependable in meeting scheduled assignments
Work extended hours when required

Responsibilities

Provide first line duty in the protection of life and property of the citizens of the community.
Enforce laws and ordinances, preserve the peace, apprehend criminals, control non-criminal conduct and apply services to the community.
Patrol assigned areas within the city by various means (i.e. patrol vehicle, bicycle, foot, etc.) for constant observation of all properties within the assigned area.
Work traffic on a selective basis and is available and responsible for answering all calls of any nature during assigned duty hours (i.e. domestic, emergency, accident, etc.).
Investigate crimes and complaints against persons & property such as murder, assault, manslaughter, robbery, rape, various sex crimes, burglary, theft and other reported crimes.
Prepare and document appropriate reports and evidence.
Perform public relations work in public safety, law enforcement, traffic accidents and crime prevention.
Make routine checks of public dances, licensed liquor establishments and other public gatherings (i.e. sporting events, or other special community events).
Render assistance and information to the public as well as emergency first aid or lifesaving methods to accident victims or persons unable to help themselves.
Perform related duties as required.