Patrol Officer

Cut Bank, MT
Cut Bank Police Department

Position Summary:

Performs various duties in law enforcement and provides services to protect the lives and property of the citizens of the City of Cut Bank including patrolling, investigating crimes and enforcing traffic laws. Ensures all laws are enforced in an efficient, effective and professional manner. Work is performed under general supervision and performance is reviewed through conferences, reports submitted, observation of supervisor and results are obtained.

Essential Functions:

  • Patrol assigned area of the city on foot, bicycle, or in police vehicle to control traffic, prevent crime or disturbance if peace; assure that all laws are enforced by checking homes and businesses for any sign of criminal activity; maintain radio contact with dispatch and supervisor; note suspicious persons and establishments and report unusual activity to supervisor.
  • Receive dispatch and respond to any 911, emergency, non-emergency, complaint and service related calls from the public. Write reports on calls answered indicating the nature of the call and any findings at the scene when appropriate.
  • Attempt to arbitrate disputes; interview complainants, witness and/or informants to obtain factual information relevant to the incident; arrest any suspects found in the commission of crimes; advise suspects of their legal rights when required, warn and/or arrest persons in violation of the law; may be required to use force in the apprehension of suspects; transport suspects to pre-trial detention facility or mental hospitals as ordered by the court/supervisor.
  • Complete field incident, arrest, booking and related police reports in accordance with departmental policy and State statutes; testify in court as needed.
  • May assume command in emergency situations and determine tactics/ strategies that directly affect the safety and security of lives and property.
  • Prepare evidence for issuance of warrants; serve warrants; advise suspects of their rights; ensure proper recording, storage, maintenance and accountability of police property and evidence by property type, classification, and warehouse requirements; notify supervisor of discrepancies immediately.
  • Conduct routine follow-up investigations of assigned cases; conduct stakeouts, surveillances and searches of persons and property to obtain weapons, contraband and other evidence; seize contraband and stolen property.
  • Respond to motor vehicle accidents in designated area or assist in other areas as needed; assist EMTs,
    firefighters, and other emergency personnel; complete traffic crash reports; call wreckers if necessary; direct traffic as necessary to prevent further crashes; ensure clean-up of accident scenes; reopen road when accident scene has been cleared.
  • Maintain traffic safety by stopping unsafe motorists and impaired drivers; stop speeding vehicles ascertained by the use of radar and other detective devices, if qualified; issue citations or arrest drivers and impound vehicles as needed; report and malfunctioning signals or damaged and missing traffic signs.
  • Conduct traffic enforcement by applying state traffic law and city ordinances, issue traffic summonses and warnings, parking citations and vehicle repair notices as needed.
  • Administer first aid and CPR when necessary, if qualified.
  • Help motorist with mechanical problems or calling wreckers when necessary for removing cars from road; give directions to motorists; remove debris from the roadways.
  • Direct and reroute traffic around fires, parades, special events, or other disruptions; attend public meetings in order to maintain order; when directed disperse and control crowds.
  • Inspect patrol vehicles for road safety by checking tire pressure and depth, oil, fuel; check calibration and proper operation of radar equipment; report and unusual occurrences to appropriate maintenance personnel for repair.
  • Electronically record/search for data in multi-application computer systems.
  • May be assigned to train new offices on the techniques and policies of the department.
  • Attend meetings as required.
  • Represent the City as necessary; make presentations to civic groups to promote public awareness of law enforcements functions and explain the goals, missions, and functions of the department.
  • Perform all other related duties as assigned by the Chief of Police or his designee.
  • Participate in station maintenance to facilitate a clean & efficient work place.
  • Take responsibility for station operations such as radio and telephone.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; advanced education preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license and a satisfactory motor vehicle record.
  • Must meet the requirements to obtain and maintain a Montana POST Basic Peace Officer Certification.
  • Possess and maintain a valid Montana Driver’s License.