Police Officer Recruit
The City of Charlottesville invites applications for the position of Police Officer Recruit. Police Recruits, under instructional supervision, participate in a formal academy training to successfully complete the Virginia state certified police officer training at the Central Shenandoah Criminal Justice Training Academy. Recruits will contribute to basic various law enforcement functions and may participate in ride alongs. The Academy provides recruits with classroom training, physical fitness, and simulation training. This position reports to a Police Corporal or Sergeant.
This is a full-time, non-exempt, position and provides excellent benefits including but not limited to : health insurance options with employer contribution, paid vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, employer-paid life insurance, City's retirement options, gym reimbursement program, and continuing education / training opportunities.
Participates in and receives formal training at the Police Academy. Coursework and training includes but is not limited to : scheduled physical fitness, criminal and traffic laws, search and seizure, first aid / CPR, fair and impartial policing, cultural diversity, prevention of bias-based policing, defense tactics utilizing de-escalation techniques, firearms, driver training, officer survival, DUI investigation, active shooter, speed measurement, and crime scene investigation.
Participates in ride alongs and experiences basic law enforcement functions necessary to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of a Police Officer, which includes but are not limited to skilled performance of traffic control, general investigations, crime prevention, communications, first aid, crime scene investigation procedures, and fingerprinting.
Becomes familiar with Virginia Laws and City ordinances.
Becomes familiar with Charlottesville Police Department rules and regulations.
Becomes familiar with Charlottesville Police Department computer systems to obtain, track, and report information.
Participates in emergency vehicle operations training and firearm familiarization courses.
Participates in mandatory and elective trainings.
May be required to report to work on scheduled days off, or report back to work, should a disaster or emergency arise.
Performs all duties with the highest degree of confidentiality and personal and professional integrity.
Performs related duties as required.
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Must be at least 20 years of age at time of the application and 21 years of age by police academy graduation.
By employment start date, possession of a valid appropriate driver's permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Must be a US citizen or a permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for citizenship (proof is required).
Must be able to successfully and satisfactorily pass all phases of the screening process, to include a written exam, physical agility test, oral interviews, completion of a comprehensive background investigation, a polygraph exam, psychological and medical exams, and pre-employment drug screening.
Successful completion of the police academy and field training.
Must obtain and maintain : Certification as a Law Enforcement Officer by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Certification in the Virginia Crime Information Network (VCIN), and Certification in Firearms Proficiency.
Must sign a Condition of Employment Agreement acknowledging the prohibition of the use of tobacco products on and off duty.
Automatic disqualifiers include any felony convictions or serious misdemeanor convictions of domestic violence, sex offenses, or crimes involving moral turpitude, convicted of DUI or Hit & Run in the past 3 years, use of marijuana after the date of application, no non-prescription / unauthorized drug use after the date of application, pattern of illegal use or misuse of prescription drugs in the last 3 years, illegal experimental use of club drugs, dealing manufacturing, cultivation, supplying, transporting, distributing, or selling any controlled, illegal or dangerous substance other than marijuana, military dishonorable discharge or bad conduct discharge, under criminal investigation or have criminal charges pending, any previous revocation or denial of certification as Police Officer or a suspension of current certified status, any body art, tattoo, or other modification that violates departmental policy, failure to provide a fully completed, honestly reported Personal History Statement.
Preferred qualifications include an associate degree or higher in law enforcement, public administration or related field from an accredited university or college; prior law enforcement, military, or corrections experience; current law enforcement certification in the Commonwealth of Virginia; professional working proficiency, or higher, in a foreign language or American Sign Language; law enforcement related internships.
Knowledge, skills and abilities include general knowledge of police methods, practices, and procedures necessary to effectively interact with the public, victims, suspects, and officers of other agencies or the ability to acquire this knowledge and apply it to specific situations; ability to learn and understand state laws, city codes and ordinances; learn the geography of Charlottesville and location of important buildings; ability to learn departmental rules and regulations; ability to understand and carry out oral and written instruction; and to prepare clear, concise reports; ability to deal courteously with the public; ability to effectively communicate with all persons; ability to exercise good judgement in stressful situations; ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and determine a proper course of action; ability to safely use motor vehicles; ability to learn and become proficient in the use of firearms and other equipment used in the performance of essential duties; ability to maintain high levels of ethical standards; ability to demonstrate a high level of integrity and be truthful at all times.
Police Officer • Charlottesville, VA, US