Patrol Officer Trainee

Indiana, PA
Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Salary: $16.64 Hourly

Position Summary:

The Patrol Officer trainee position is an entry-level position designed to identify new police recruits. An employee in this job participates in an MPOETC Certified Act 120 program. An employee in this job develops skills and techniques to provide police services and protection to the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education property, grounds, facilities, clientele, employees, and the general public. Work involves learning to enforce the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, Motor Vehicle Code, local ordinances, and commonwealth regulations. Assignments are designed to develop proficiency in law interpretation and application, legal procedures, police operations, criminal investigations, public safety, physical fitness, self-defense, firearms use, emergency response, effective communication, report writing, maintenance and use of equipment, and law enforcement practices. Work may also include performing on-the-job assignments patrolling a State University to protect and guard property or persons from fire, theft, trespass, or other hazards.

Essential Functions:

  • Participate in a structured Act 120 Basic Police Officer Training program to obtain Act 120 Certification.
  • Participate in training assignments to learn the principles and practices associated with conducting investigations, collecting evidence to support enforcement action, search and seizure, accident investigations, officer safety, interpersonal relations, investigations, interviews, interrogations, report writing, case preparation, and court testimony.
  • Receive training in the safe and proper handling of firearms and in the use of specialized equipment and instruments, including communications equipment, preliminary breath test devices, body armor, and riot gear.
  • Participate in training assignments to learn the principles and practices associated with the Rules of Criminal Procedure, the Rules of Evidence, criminal laws, motor vehicle laws, and rules related to search and seizure and arrest.
  • Patrol an assigned area of the university, watches for fires, prowlers, vandalism, or other unusual occurrences.
  • Direct traffic and enforce parking regulations.
  • Assist and direct visitors; furnish information in a courteous manner.
  • Maintain orderly conduct among students, employees, visitors, and the general public.
  • Operate motorized vehicles.
  • Perform related work and all other duties as required.

Requirements:

  • High school Diploma or completion of the General Educational Development test.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle operator’s license.
  • All employees must meet the entrance requirements for the MPOETC Certified Act 120 program which includes a fitness test, a background check, a physical examination including a vision and hearing test, a psychological examination, and a reading test with a minimum 9 th grade reading level.
  • All employees are required to enroll in, participate, and complete the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission Certified Basic Police Academy (Act 120) training to obtain MPOETC Certification. Act 120 certification must be obtained to successfully complete the trainee program.