Reserve Police Officer

Title: Reserve Police Officer

Department: Police Department

Essential Status: Essential

Division: Patrol

Reports to: Division Sergeant

BRIEF DESCRIPTION:

The Reserve Police Officer is a front-line public servant responsible for protecting life and property, enforcing laws, preserving public peace, preventing crime, and building trust with the community through proactive engagement. Reserve Police Officers have the same authority as a regular full-time police officer. Reserve officers commit to working at least 24 hours per month while in FTO and 16 hours per month after completing FTO. Officers perform a variety of duties, including routine patrol, emergency response, investigations, traffic enforcement, report writing, and courtroom testimony. This position requires integrity, judgment, resilience, and the ability to de-escalate tense situations.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:

• Reports to: Division Sergeant
• Directs: None
• Other: Will have dealings with all employees and the general public

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

• Respond promptly and professionally to calls for service, including emergencies, disturbances, and incidents involving possible criminal activity.
• Conduct traffic stops, issue citations, investigate accidents, and direct traffic as needed.
• Prepare clear and accurate incident, arrest, and investigative reports.
• Conduct preliminary and follow-up investigations of crimes, gather evidence, and interview witnesses or suspects.
• Make arrests when warranted and process suspects in accordance with legal procedures.
• Provide testimony in court proceedings.
• Engage in proactive, community-based policing; build strong relationships with residents, business owners, and community partners.
• Maintain visibility through regular patrols in assigned areas to deter criminal activity and enhance public safety.
• Use sound judgment to assess and de-escalate volatile or emotionally charged situations.
• Attend training programs and stay current on laws, procedures, and best practices.
• Operate department vehicles and equipment safely and in accordance with policy.

Requirements:

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: High School Graduate or G.E.D. Strong knowledge of local, state, and federal laws. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills. Ability to think clearly and act decisively under pressure. Proficient with computers, report writing software, and standard law enforcement tools. Physical ability to perform the duties, including pursuing suspects on foot and managing physically demanding situations.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED:

• High school diploma or GED required; associate or bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.
• Must be a certified Texas Peace Officer through TCOLE (Texas Commission on Law Enforcement).
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Valid Texas driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• No felony convictions or disqualifying criminal history.

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS & CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is performed in various environments, including patrol vehicles, residential neighborhoods, high-risk crime scenes, and occasionally in adverse weather.
• May involve physical exertion, extended periods of surveillance, and exposure to potentially dangerous or life-threatening situations.
• Shift work required, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to pass physical fitness tests, psychological evaluation, drug screening, and a comprehensive background check.