Public Safety Officer

University of Arkansas System • Fort Smith, AR

10d

About The Position

The University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution. As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary. The Public Safety Officer is responsible for the enforcement of traffic and criminal laws, institutional policies, and parking regulations at an institution of higher education. This position is governed by law enforcement standards, and departmental and institutional policy. It works under general supervision in a team-oriented setting. The position reports to department chain-of-command consisting of Lieutenant and Chief.

Requirements

• Be a United States Citizen
• Be at least 21 years of age at time of appointment.
• Be free of any felony conviction(s).
• Be free of conviction(s) involving cases of domestic abuse.
• Be of good character as determined by thorough background investigation.
• Possess the formal equivalent of a high school diploma.
• Possess a valid, state-issued motor vehicle operator’s license.
• Have a safe driving record.
• Have a steady work history.
• Be certified as a police officer in Arkansas within 12 months of employment.
• Knowledge of general law enforcement methods and techniques; knowledge of traffic and criminal laws, and parking regulations; ability to enforce laws and regulations, direct traffic, and maintain order.
• Ability to operate vehicles used in patrol duties.
• General knowledge of computers.
• Skilled in the operation of firearms.
• Ability to demonstrate safety and accuracy in use of firearms, and pass annual state requirement for fire arms certification, as well as departmental requirements.
• Problem solving: Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner; gather and analyze information skillfully.
• Interpersonal skills: Ability to maintain confidential information with absolute discretion in all matters. Ability to remain open to others ideas and try new things.
• Communication Skills: Ability to write and speak clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; read and interpret written information. Ability to prepare written reports and logs and to edit work for accuracy and thoroughness, and to monitor own work to ensure quality. Requires STRONG attention to detail.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changes in work environment, manage competing demands, and deal with frequent changes, delays, or unexpected events.
• Dependability: Ability to arrive at work on time consistently; follow instructions; respond to management direction; and solicit feedback to improve performance.
• Knowledge of University policy as it relates to the position.

Nice To Haves

• Be certified as a police officer in Arkansas or a state with reciprocity agreement.

Responsibilities

• Patrols University properties to detect and prevent violations of laws and regulations; arrest and detain offenders and issue citations as necessary; assist in providing traffic and/or crowd control during periods of high volume and density.
• Operate emergency and non-emergency vehicles and communications equipment; investigate traffic accidents, reports of criminal offenses, violations of institutional policy and other incidents; complete accurate and detailed reports; and defuse disturbances.
• Provide emergency first-aid and assist other law enforcement agencies and emergency personnel; respond to alarms; conduct interviews and searches as necessary; monitor roadways and parking areas for motorist and pedestrian safety.
• Use tactics, including force as trained and equipped, in preserving the safety of citizens, oneself, and fellow officers; testify in court.
• Provide assistance as requested or needed by locking or unlocking buildings and offices; assist stranded motorists; communicate general and public safety information to students, staff, faculty, and the general public.
• Detect, investigate, and report breaches of facilities, property damage, missing property, and hazardous conditions; maintain uniforms and equipment; attend practical training.
• Maintain professional appearance and attitude; assist in safety and security planning and implementation for special events.
• Assist in planning and implementing public service programs and training.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.
• Requires consistent on-time attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance
• tuition waivers for employees and their families
• 12 official holidays
• immediate leave accrual
• a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees