Police Officer

SUMMARY 

A Police Officer is required to efficiently perform his or her duties in conformance with the rules, regulations, polices and procedures of the Acushnet Police Department. Entry level police officers shall generally be assigned as uniformed patrol officers. Police officers may also be required to carry out the duties and responsibilities of any of the following assignments in the department: Detective, Traffic Officer, Administrative Officer, and/or other duties as may be assigned or required. 

General police duties shall consist of, but not be limited to, a number of activities necessary to insure the stability and safety of the community. A police officer is expected to perform essential tasks as defined by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Division of Human Resources as well as: 

• Identify criminal offenders and criminal activity and, where appropriate, apprehend offenders and participate in subsequent court proceedings.
• Reduce the opportunities for the commission of crime through preventive patrol and other measures.
• Aid individuals who are in danger of physical harm.
• Facilitate the movement of vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
• Identify problems that are potentially serious law enforcement or governmental problems.
• Create and maintain a feeling of security in the community.
• Promote and preserve the peace.
• Provide other services on an emergency basis.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

Working knowledge of modern police science techniques, methods and procedures and the ability to carry out same. Knowledge of Federal, State and Municipal laws and ordinances, and court decisions relative to police officer enforcement abilities and restraints. Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine the proper course of action to be taken. Ability to utilize self defense techniques and equipment, restraining devices and firearms. Ability to operate a motor vehicle under routine and emergency situations. 

The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies, town employees and agencies, fellow employees and the general public. Knowledge of the community geography and demographics. Ability to utilize computer equipment and sufficient keyboard skills to be proficient in report writing. 

The ability to project confidence, self-assurance and certainty to the public. Ability to project a neat, professional appearance to the public. Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing. Emotional stability and the ability to cope with stressful situations and confront hostile persons. 

Physical capabilities sufficient to engage in confrontational physical arrest situations under a variety of circumstances. Physical capabilities to subdue attacking persons as well as the physical capabilities to chase, apprehend and restrain individuals consistent with the enforcement of the law and apprehension of criminals. Physical capabilities sufficient to engage in activities that require greater than average strength, cardiovascular fitness and range of motion. 

Any officer hired after November 1, 1996 must comply with the wellness requirements defined in Mass General Law Chapter 31 s61A-61B. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

Must be an academy-trained lateral transfer. Must be POST Commission certified.

Must be at least 21 years of age, Massachusetts resident. High school diploma or equivalency certificate or three (3) years in the armed forces of the United States with last release or discharge under honorable conditions. U.S. Citizen, Hold a valid Massachusetts motor vehicle operator's license and either hold or be able to immediately obtain a License to Carry Firearms. Sufficient physical abilities to perform the essential functions and duties of the position. Meet all standards of the Police Department, including successful completion of an oral interview by a selection committee and thorough background investigation. Completion of college courses, military duty or relevant work experience is desirable but not required.