Police Officer

JOB SUMMARY 

An employee in this classification is responsible for the protection of life and property, prevention of crime, apprehension of criminals, and the general enforcement of laws and ordinances.  Employees are subject to assignments to shifts and types of duty according to the needs of the department.  Assignments may include criminal identification duties, accident investigation, investigation of crimes, and the apprehension of criminals.  Work involves an element of personal danger and employees must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise independent discretion in meeting emergencies.  Work assignments and general and special instructions are received from a superior officer who reviews work methods and results through examination of reports, personal inspections, and discussion of work problems and action taken.  This employee is directly responsible to his or her shift sergeant/supervisor.

 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

performed in this classification.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this position.

• Patrols a designated area to keep law and order, prevent and discover the commission of crime, apprehend violators, direct traffic, and enforce traffic and parking regulations; 
• Answers all calls and complaints he or she is dispatched or assigned to.
• Conducts preliminary investigations, gathers evidence, obtains witnesses and makes arrests at the scenes of crimes or accidents. 
• Prepares detailed reports and testifies or presents evidence in court.
• Gives advice on laws and ordinances and general information to the public. 
• Attends regular training classes in police methods, target practices, and related subjects.
• Receives and searches prisoners.
• Performs related work as required and/or assigned.

• Knowledge of approved principles and practices of police work and applicable laws and ordinances; knowledge of the geography of the Town and physical and social characteristics.
• Ability to observe situations analytically and objectively and to report and record them clearly and completely.
• Ability and skill in the use and care of firearms, the operation of motor vehicles, and other police related equipment.
• Ability to deal courteously and effectively with the public in police situations.
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency conditions.
• Ability to present court testimony effectively.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, Town officials and the general public.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Candidate possesses a High School diploma, or equivalent, and Florida Law Enforcement Certificate.

• Out of state law enforcement candidates with active out of state certifications may be considered with the ability to obtain Florida Law Enforcement Certificate within six (6) months of employment. 

• Two years of college preferred.

• Candidate must possess, and maintain, a valid Florida Driver’s license.

• Must be in good physical condition, as work may involve walking, standing, running, and physical confrontation.

• Must have abstained from the use of illegal substances and must be drug-free (including marijuana) for a minimum of the last three consecutive years.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
Where emergency impacts the Town of Lantana, all employees are subject to work or return to duty as directed to ensure continuation and restoration of services, maintain safety and fulfill the Town’s responsibility to its citizens. Employee may be required to assist in duties unrelated to regular duties during emergencies.
 
Employee is subject to pre-employment, random, and reasonable suspension drug testing under FL State Statute 440 Drug free workplace program requirements. 
 

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT USED Automated external defibrillator (AED), police vehicle, firearms, taser, handcuffs, OC spray, baton (expandable), phone, radio, copy/fax machine, camera, and computer including word processing software, printer, and calculator. 

ADA COMPLIANCE

Physical Requirements

Working Conditions

Moderate lifting, 15-44 pounds Moderate carrying, 15-44 pounds Use of fingers Both hands required Both legs required Walking (frequent) Standing (frequent) Crawling (occasional) Kneeling (occasional) Climbing (occasional) Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception (correction permitted) Hearing (aid permitted)  Operation of motor vehicle Ability to distinguish basic colors Ability to distinguish shades of colors

Outside and inside Excessive heat Excessive humidity Inside office environment Excessive noise (occasional)