Police Officer

Merrill, IA
Merrill Police Department

Position Summary:

Under the general direction and supervision of the Mayor of Merrill, the Police Officer is responsible for directing the activities and programs of the City of Merrill’s Police Department, including the utilization and coordination of personnel and equipment resources.

Essential Functions:

  • Serves as the administrative officer of the police department and at times when deemed necessary, a working supervisor by directing and participating in the daily activities of subordinates of the police department.
  • Prepare and submit the annual department budget in accordance with the current procedures for doing such and monitor expenditures and revenues throughout the year.
  • Purchases commodities and services in accord with the current policy.
  • Sets up daily work schedules for police employees, and determines manpower, equipment, and material needs.
  • Inspects work in progress and upon completion for conformance to desired standards and objectives for all buildings, facilities and grounds work under position’s authority.
  • Plans, schedules, evaluates, and oversees all police personnel, projects, and operations, including the apprehension of violators of law and investigations and reports.
  • Supervise the work performance of all department staff and initiates corrective action.
  • Regularly communicate with the Mayor and provide a written report of any unusual happenings or findings.
  • Respond to citizen complaints, taking remedial action when necessary and reporting the same in a timely manner to the Mayor.
  • Ensure staff is in compliance with all necessary certifications for their respective positions.
  • Supervise and work with the Mayor and/or City Council on departmental purchasing and monitoring of expenditures to ensure compliance with the fiscal year budget.
  • Oversee and maintain systematic, complete, and accurate departmental records and prepare reports as needed, including accident investigations.
  • Direct, assign, plan and review the work of department staff as necessary and hold meetings to collaboratively discuss ideas and solve problems. Resolve personnel complaints and problems and maintain a productive work environment.
  • Recommend the appointment, promotion, and dismissal of personnel based on objective evaluation criteria.
  • Monitor contracts for compliance with all provisions contained therein.
  • Supervise care and maintenance of department equipment and facilities.
  • Develop public relations and information dissemination programs to promote the department programs, goals and objectives and explain the department programs.
  • Testify as needed in warrant hearings and court trials and ensure staff does the same.
  • Oversee the training and orientation of all new staff.
  • Work with City and County emergency management and respond to all critical incidents and hazardous events in accord with the City and County all hazards plan / emergency operation plan.
  • Maintains knowledge on applicable new local, state and federal laws, mandates and regulations, policies and procedures and contemporary police trends and initiatives.
  • Assist visitors as needed.
  • Attend Council Meetings and provide department reports.
  • Other duties as directed by the Mayor/Council.

Requirements:

  • Graduate of the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.
  • Completion of appropriate firearm training and use of force tactics.
  • Completion of training on search, seizure and arrest laws and procedures.
  • Must meet all current educational requirements of the State of Iowa for police officers.
  • Must have 3 + years of law enforcement experience.
  • Must possess a valid Iowa driver’s license and be able to effectively operate a motor vehicle, radio communication and radar detection devices.
  • Possession and maintenance of C.P.R., AED and First Aid certifications.