Police Officer - Atlantic Beach PD

Nestled along Florida's beautiful First Coast, the City of Atlantic Beach is a picturesque coastal community of approximately 14,000 residents, featuring two miles of pristine sandy beaches, more than 65 acres of parks and recreational spaces, and the charm of small-town living just minutes from the vibrant City of Jacksonville.

The City takes pride in its strong sense of community, commitment to public service, and friendly, supportive work environment. Our employees play an essential role in preserving the quality of life that makes Atlantic Beach such a special place to live, work, and visit.

We offer competitive compensation, an excellent benefits package, professional development and training opportunities, and opportunities for career advancement. Whether serving our residents, supporting local businesses, or helping maintain a safe and welcoming community, our employees make a meaningful difference every day.

Join our team and discover the rewards of serving a community that truly values its employees and the people they serve!

IMPORTANT NOTICE – TEMPORARY HIRING FREEZE

The City of Atlantic Beach is currently under a temporary hiring freeze through November 15, 2026. The City may continue to accept applications, screen candidates, and conduct interviews during this period; however, any hiring decision or offer of employment is contingent upon the City Commission lifting or otherwise authorizing an exception to the hiring freeze. Posting this vacancy does not guarantee that the position will be filled.

ABPD - This position performs various duties in law enforcement and provides services to protect the lives and property of the citizens of the City of Atlantic Beach including patrolling, investigating crimes and enforcing traffic laws. Ensures all laws are enforced in an efficient, effective and professional manner. Work is performed under general supervision and performance is reviewed through conferences, reports submitted, and results obtained.

• Patrol assigned area of the City on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, horseback or in police vehicle to control traffic, prevent crime or disturbance of peace; assure that all laws are enforced by checking homes and businesses for any signs of criminal activity such as broken windows and unlocked doors; maintain radio contact with headquarters and supervisor via two-way radio; note suspicious persons and establishments and report unusual activity to supervisor.
• Receive and respond to any 911, emergency, non-emergency, compliant and service related calls from the public regarding burglaries, domestic violence, or any other situation needing assistance from police authorities; write reports on calls answered indicating the nature of the call and any findings at the scene.
• Attempt to arbitrate disputes; interview complainants, witnesses and /or informants to obtain factual information relevant to the incident; arrest any suspects found in the commission of crimes; advise suspects of their legal rights; warn and/or arrest persons in violation of the law; may be required to use force in the apprehension of suspects; transport suspects to pre-trial detention facility or mental hospitals as ordered by the court.
• Complete field incident, arrest, booking and related police reports in accordance with departmental policy and State statutes; testify in court as needed.
• May assume command in emergency situations and determine tactics/strategies that directly affect the safety and security of lives and property.
• Prepare evidence for issuance of warrants; serve warrants; advise suspects of their rights; ensure proper recording, storage, maintenance, and accountability of police property and evidence by property type, classification, and warehousing requirements; notify supervisor of discrepancies immediately.
• Conduct routine follow-up investigations of assigned cases; conduct stakeouts, surveillances, and searches of persons and property to obtain weapons, illegal drugs, stolen property and other evidence; seize contraband and stolen property.
• Respond to motor vehicle accidents in designated area or assist in other areas as needed; assist EMTs, firefighters, and other emergency personnel; complete traffic crash reports by questioning involved parties and any witnesses, gathering all pertinent information; call wreckers if necessary; provide emotional support to victims at the scene; direct traffic as necessary to prevent further crashes; ensure clean-up of accident scenes; reopen road when accident scene has been cleared.
• Maintain traffic safety by stopping unsafe motorists and drunk drivers; stop speeding vehicles ascertained by the use of radar and other detection devices; issue citations or arrest drivers and impound vehicles as needed; report any malfunctioning signals or damaged and missing traffic signs.
• Issue traffic summonses and warnings, parking citations, and vehicle repair notices as needed.
• Administer CPR and first aid when necessary; answer any questions from the public.
• Help motorists with mechanical problems or calling wreckers when necessary for removing cars from roads; give directions to motorists; remove debris from the roadways.
• Direct and reroute traffic around fires, parades, special events, or other disruptions; attend public meetings to maintain order; disperse and control crowds; direct traffic at school crossings.
• Inspect patrol vehicles for road safety by checking tire pressure and depth, oil, fuel; check calibration and proper operation of radar equipment; report any unusual occurrences to appropriate maintenance personnel for repair.
• Escort bank officials, business owners, or other citizens to banks with large money deposits or any valuables; provide other escorts to citizens to ensure their safety. 
• Assist the Communications/Dispatch  Division as needed. 
• Electronically record/search for data in multi-application computer systems.
• May be assigned to train new officers on the techniques and policies of the department.
• Attend meetings as required.
• Represent the City as necessary; make presentations to civic groups to promote public awareness of law enforcement functions and explain the goals, missions, and functions of the department.
• Perform all other related duties as required.

Must currently have Law Enforcement certification acceptable to the State of Florida and be eligible to complete Florida training and certification within 6 months of hire.
Must possess the State of Florida 911 Public Safety Telecommunicators Certification or be able to obtain within 6 months of hire.
Must have a Valid Driver’s License and a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR).
High School Diploma or equivalent.  Knowledge of Federal, State, and City laws pertaining to law enforcement. Knowledge of investigation procedures and techniques. Knowledge of department policies, general orders, rules and regulations. Knowledge of first aid and CPR.  Skill in the use of firearms.
 
Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine the proper course of action. Ability to cope with situations tactfully, firmly, courteously, and with respect for the rights of others. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to interpret established rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Collective Bargaining Representation:

Police Officer positions are represented by the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and are covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Atlantic Beach and the PBA.

Florida Statute 447.301 protects employees' right to join or refrain from joining a union. 

For additional information regarding union representation, please visit https://www.coastalfloridapba.us/atlantic-beach-pd.html

Work Schedule: Full-time Police Officers are scheduled for 2,184 hours annually and generally work 12-hour shifts. Work schedules may include nights, weekends, and holidays based on departmental operational needs.