POLICE UNIFORMED OFFICER

Position Summary

This position protects life and property, maintains order, and enforces the laws of the United States of America, the State of Florida and the City of Palatka. Under general supervision, performs duties following established procedures and statutes. Has latitude to make decisions about priorities for both routine and emergency and non-emergency situations. Limited to general supervision by a shift supervisor with latitude for the use of independent judgment in the selection of work methods and procedures within the scope of established policies. May supervise less experienced officers on scene if so directed by supervisor and until relieved of responsibility by supervisor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operates police vehicles, patrol streets, observe conditions and make security checks on personal, city and business properties.
• Responds to complaints and request for assistance, suspicious circumstances, criminal activities, etc.
• Contacts traffic violators, suspected felons and misdemeanor violators.
• Investigates disturbances, interviews subjects and suspects, locate and interview witnesses, and records statements.
• Conducts initial and follow-up investigations.
• Writes criminal investigative reports.
• Prepares complex documentation to accompany reports.
• Conducts interviews with suspects, witnesses and victims.
• Appears at court proceedings and gives testimony.
• Uses a variety of weapons and other types of tools to assist in performance of duties.
• Makes presentations to various groups on a variety of topics, including but not limited to safety and crime prevention.
• Coordinates activities of assorted groups both internally and externally.
• Transports prisoners.
• Performs escort services for traffic related activities / funerals.
• Directs Traffic.
• Conducts traffic crash investigations.
• Conducts foot, bike and specialized vehicle patrols as needed.
• Gives referrals as needed to other agencies and organizations for victims and witnesses.
• Operates communications equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse and sometimes irate individuals and to handle calmly situations ranging from routine to emergency.
• Knowledge of modem law enforcement methods and procedures, local geography and social conditions, criminal investigative techniques, rules of evidence and court proceedings.
• Knowledge of first aid and general emergency measures.
• Ability to communicate at a level to perform adequate interviews and interrogations.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally as well as in writing (typing and computer skills).
• Ability to act decisively and calmly in emergency situations.
• Ability to enforce laws in a firm, impartial manner and draw valid conclusions from sometimes incomplete data.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with the general public, other employees and representatives of the court, other law enforcement agencies and civic groups.
• Must be honest and exhibit integrity and courage in the performance of duties.
• Ability to use two-way radio, personal computer, fax machine, assigned firearm, non-deadly weapons (OC, baton, Taser), and other items deemed necessary by the Palatka Police Department.

Education and/or Experience:

• High School education or equivalency.
• Completion of minimum standards training as required by State of Florida for Certified Law Enforcement Officer.
• Possess a valid Florida Driver's License.

Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work i s performed in an indoor and outdoor environment. 
• Will be subjected to a variety of weather conditions, hazardous and non-hazardous environment. 
• Work is performed in an indoor and outdoor environment. 
• Verbal communication is conducted face to face, on the telephone, and in a classroom setting. 
• A computer keyboard is used to enter and retrieve data and requires continuous or repetitive arm-hand movements. 
• Some assignments may include evening and weekend work and field observations which may result in exposure to dirt, dust, pollen, odors, wetness, humidity, rain, fumes, temperature and noise extremes, machinery, vibrations, electric currents, traffic hazards, animals/wildlife, toxic/poisonous agents, violence, disease or pathogenic substance.
• Ability to stand, walk and safely operate police department vehicles.
• Ability to physically handle exertion from suspect apprehension.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required of personnel in this position.

An individual must be able to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. To perform this job successfully, the incumbent(s) will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. 

This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.