Police Officer

Anticipated Hiring Range $45,500

Position Summary
The primary location of this position is on the main Cullowhee, NC campus.

Western Carolina University’s Police Department continually accepts applications for police officers to keep on file. As positions become available, applications on file are reviewed. Anyone interested in working with the WCU Police Department must complete an application online.

Serves as a member of a community policing team that employs problem-solving strategies for addressing crime and safety problems; performs patrol duties including but not limited to responding to calls for service or crimes, investigating violations of law or university rules, preparing written report, enforcing parking and traffic rules, engaging in crowd and traffic control, patrolling and inspecting buildings and facilities for safety or law enforcement concerns, and coordinating with higher authority on special traffic, law enforcement or safety concerns; enters reports into a computer; performs extensive computer work; performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position
Required Competencies: Knowledge of North Carolina Criminal and Motor Vehicle Laws and understanding their application; knowledge federal laws, particularly those that apply to higher education including FERPA and the Clery Act; knowledge of general court and criminal justice processes; knowledge of police training practices and crime prevention issues; knowledge of departmental general orders and supervisory principles; knowledge of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) standards; knowledge of community policing philosophies and techniques; skill in working with a diverse population and public service contact; skill in working in regimented work environment; skill with computer applications; ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; ability to speak distinctly over the radio; ability and skill in motor vehicle operation; ability to use force to protect oneself and others; ability to lift heavy objects that weigh 75 pounds or more; other strenuous activities associated with the practice of law enforcement.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalency. Certification as a Law Enforcement Officer in accordance with the provisions of the North Carolina Criminal Justice Training and Standards Commission or the ability to achieve certification within one year of employment.

Preferred Qualifications
Successfully complete Field Training Officer Program; good physical condition as evidenced by successfully passing an approved law enforcement physical test; must be 20 years of age; must be a US Citizen or eligible to work in the United States; must successfully pass a background investigation; two years of successful work experience in a public-contact occupation; must be able to work rotating shifts, out-of-doors, and in a variety of assignments including foot, vehicle, and bicycle patrol; must be able to deal with stressful situations, including life-threatening incidents; must not object to using force against another person when legally justified; experience in working with word processing, database, spreadsheet, and presentation software. Additional desired qualifications include education beyond the minimum and one year of successful law enforcement work experience.