Police Officer, Ceremonial Unit

INTERNAL JOB POSTING - ONLY OPEN TO CURRENT MEMBERS OF THE MTA POLICE DEPARTMENT

Job Title:Request for Consideration – Police Officer, Ceremonial Unit

Dept/Div:Professional Standards Division, MTA Police Department

Supervisor:Commanding Officer, Professional Standards Division

Location:Various

Hours:As assigned by the department for ceremonial attendance

Summary:

The Department is seeking qualified members from the rank of Police Officer who are interested in being considered for assignment to the Ceremonial Unit.

Responsibilities:

Members of the Ceremonial Unit will be responsible for:

• Participating in formal ceremonies, including funerals, wakes, memorial services, and parades.
• Properly handle and display the American, State, and Department flags during ceremonial events.
• Perform ceremonial duties such as the presentation of flags, rifle handling, proper salutes, presenting arms, ordering arms, marching, and standing at attention.
• Maintain the highest level of discipline, personal appearance, and uniform presentation.
• Take part in standard funeral procedures.  This includes casket watch, assisting with crowds and ushers.
• Represent the department in a positive and respectful manner during all events.
• Attend ceremonial unit trainings when assigned.
• Ability to lift and walk with heavy objects, including caskets that weigh upwards of 400-500 pounds.
• Willingness to travel in your own vehicle to ceremonial events, on your own time, without reimbursement.
• Prioritize all Ceremonial Unit events.

Qualifications:

All candidates must, at a minimum, have the following qualifications/requirements to be considered for appointment.

• Have completed three (3) years of service with the MTAPD OR one (1) year of completed service with the MTAPD and can demonstrate extensive honor guard experience.
• An exceptional level of physical fitness.  All candidates will be required to pass the Cooper Standards Physical Fitness Test at 50 percent standards prior to being considered for an interview.
• Must exhibit a high level of professionalism.  A positive reputation must be maintained.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills.
• Successfully complete an interview before an Interview Panel.
• Ability to remain composed in emotionally charged or high-pressure situations.
• Maintain a high standard of personal appearance.
• No major disciplinary issues or excessive sick history.
• Candidates must have a deep respect for the symbolism of their role and must understand the importance of representing the department.
• Willingness to commit to the Ceremonial Unit for a minimum of four (4) years.
• Complete a "Candidate Application (Form #69) and forward it to his or her immediate supervisor who shall complete the applicable sections and then forward the form through the chain of command.

Other Information:

Interested members who meet the above listed qualifications will be eligible to participate in a panel interview.  Candidates should understand that they are not guaranteed an assignment with the Ceremonial Unit, even if they meet each of the above qualifications.

Candidates will be asked to perform the Cooper Standard Physical Fitness Test to a 50 percent standard and will also be asked to complete a practical physical portion prior to being eligible for a panel interview. Candidates will be evaluated on the following:

• Standing at attention for prolonged periods of time.  During this time candidates will be required to hold present arms (salute).
• Lifting heavy weights above the shoulder.  This will include a weighted casket.
• Basic rifle and flag movements.
• Marching with other members.
• Candidates will be asked to dress in Class A uniform for their panel interview.

Equal Employment Opportunity

MTA and its subsidiary and affiliated agencies are Equal Opportunity Employers, including with respect to veteran status and individuals with disabilities.

The MTA encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and abilities, including military service members to apply.