Temporary University Police Officer

Missouri Southern State University•Joplin, MO

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The University Police Officer is a commissioned law enforcement professional responsible for maintaining public safety, protecting life and property, and enforcing University policies and applicable local and state laws on university property and designated areas. The position supports a safe and secure campus environment through proactive patrol, emergency response, investigation, community engagement, and crime prevention initiatives. This position requires independent judgment, sound decision-making, and adherence to departmental policies, legal standards, and professional conduct expectations. This is a temporary position created for summer employment.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age.
High school diploma or GED required.
Missouri POST certification may be required at hire or must be obtained within a designated timeframe as a condition of employment.
Continued employment requires maintenance of POST certification, and all required continuing education.
Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University vehicle insurance requirements.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common business and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints.
Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and by written means at a very high level.
Ability to make ethical decisions in doing what is best for both students and the University.
Ability to effectively present information to administrators, faculty, staff, regulators, students, public groups, and/or Board of Governors.
Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, proportions, and percentages.
Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and legal standards.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in high-pressure situations.
Effective interpersonal skills for interaction with diverse campus populations.
Proficiency with computer-based reporting systems and law enforcement technology.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

Associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related field.
Prior law enforcement or campus policing experience.

Responsibilities

Patrol University property and designated areas by foot, bicycle, or motor vehicle to deter and detect criminal activity and safety hazards.
Enforce University regulations and applicable city and state laws.
Respond to dispatched calls and emergency situations, including medical emergencies, criminal incidents, disturbances, accidents, and public service requests.
Conduct preliminary and follow-up investigations; collect, preserve, and document evidence; interview victims, witnesses, and suspects.
Prepare accurate and timely reports in compliance with departmental procedures and applicable reporting requirements, including Clery Act, UCR, MIBRS, and NIBRS standards.
Protect crime scenes and maintain chain of custody for evidence.
Make arrests in accordance with state law; process arrested individuals and complete required documentation.
Prepare cases for prosecution and provide sworn testimony in court proceedings.
Perform traffic control and parking enforcement functions, including issuing citations and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Utilize department-issued equipment, including digital reporting systems, body-worn cameras, and multi-channel radio systems, in accordance with policy.
Provide first aid and emergency assistance within the scope of training.
Assist with campus events and provide escort services as needed.
Collaborate with external law enforcement agencies when appropriate.
Support and participate in departmental crime prevention and safety education initiatives.