Police Officer

City of Belen•Belen, NM

32d•$50,974 - $62,549

About The Position

A police officer is responsible for the efficient performance of required duties conforming to the rules, regulations, and general orders contained herein. Duties shall consist of, but are not limited to, general police responsibilities necessary to the safety and good order of the community. A police officer shall: Identify criminal offenders and criminal activity and where appropriate, apprehend offenders and participate in subsequent court proceedings. Reduce the opportunities for the commission of crime through preventive patrol and other measures. Aid people who are in danger of physical harm. Facilitate the movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic; Identify potentially serious law enforcement or governmental problems. Promote and preserve the peace. Provide emergency services. Will work weekends, holidays, unscheduled overtime and night shift. The police officer position is non-supervisory. Police officer duties are performed on an assigned shift under the general guidance of the Police Chief or Sergeant.

Requirements

Officers need to have knowledge of resources available to the department, particularly as related to juveniles
Knowledge of police investigative techniques and techniques of identification
General knowledge of rules of evidence and laws of search and seizure
Possess the ability to deal effectively with juveniles and adults
Show the ability to question and interview skillfully
Ability to organize and prepare clear and concise oral and written reports
Exercise skill in the use of firearms and police equipment
Possess of physical ability and endurance
Ability to establish effective working relationships with juveniles, parents, school officials, fellow workers and the public.
A high school degree or equivalent
Certified completion New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy
Two (2) years of patrol experience. Must be able to pass City drug testing
No felony convictions or convictions for a crime of moral turpitude.

Responsibilities

Exercises authority consistent with obligations imposed by the oath of office. Accountable to superior officer. Promptly obeys legitimate orders.
Coordinates efforts with those of other members of the department so that teamwork may ensure continuity of purpose and achievement of police objectives.
Communicates to superiors and to fellow officers all information obtained in the field which is pertinent to the achievement of police objectives.
Responds punctually to all assignments.
Records information concerning events that have taken place since the last tour of duty.
Records activity during tour of duty in the manner prescribed by proper authority. Maintains weapons and equipment in a functional, presentable condition.
Assists citizens requesting assistance or information. Courteously explains any instance where jurisdiction does not lie with the police department and suggests other procedures to be followed.
Accountable for the securing, receipt, and proper transporting of all evidence and property coming into custody.
Answers questions asked by the general public, counsels, juveniles and adults when necessary and refers them to persons or agencies where they can obtain further assistance.
Preserves the peace at public gatherings, neighborhood disputes, and family quarrels.
Serves or delivers warrants, summonses, subpoenas, and other official papers promptly and accurately when so directed by a superior officer. Confers with prosecutors and testifies in court.
Accomplishes other general duties as they are assigned or become necessary.
Performs other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.
Cooperates with the efforts of other law enforcement agencies.
Patrols an assigned area for general purposes of crime prevention & law enforcement.
Completing detailed reports on all crimes, vehicle crashes, and other incidents requiring police attention.
Conducts a thorough investigation of all offenses and incidents within the area of assignment and scope of activity. Collects evidence and records data which will aid in identification, apprehension and prosecution of offenders, as well as the recovery of property.
Takes measures to direct the flow of traffic during periods of congestion;
Directs and expedites the flow of traffic at assigned intersections, preventing crashes, protecting pedestrians, and ensuring the free flow of traffic.
Enforces the parking ordinances and motor vehicle laws in the patrol areas.