University Police Officer – Lateral

Amherst, MA
University of Massachusetts Amherst

Job Summary

Employees of this position title serve as multi-skilled professionals performing the full spectrum of law enforcement, investigation, and emergency services. The primary duty of this position is the enforcement of all applicable state and local laws; and the enforcement of university traffic rules and regulations. By vigilant observation and investigation, employees in this position will perform identification, apprehension and detention when appropriate, of individuals suspected of violating these laws. Additionally, employees in this position provide education, preserve the public peace, provide protection to life and property, and provide needed assistance to the community.

Essential Functions

  • Exercises police powers under authority of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 75 Section 32A, in order to prevent, deter, and detect violations of criminal and motor vehicle laws, rules, and regulations. Ensures public safety through enforcement and education.
  • Directs and controls pedestrian and motor vehicle traffic; enforces university traffic and parking rules and regulations; issues traffic citations under authority of MGL C 90 § 1c.
  • Patrols university properties and adjacent geographic areas (and areas subject to the provisions of mutual aid agreements), to ensure the protection of persons and property, and to detect and deter criminal activity. Remains alert for health and safety hazards, and theft or damage to property. Takes appropriate action to mitigate and/or report hazards and damage.
  • Operates motor vehicles and conducts patrols using marked, semi-marked, and unmarked police cars, motorcycles, bicycles, horses, ATVs, and on foot. May operate pick-up truck/trailer combinations and other task specific vehicles.
  • Aids and assists all persons in danger of physical harm, or victims of crime, accidents, or illness.
  • Maintains order at the scene of public assemblies and gatherings, protests, marches, concerts, sporting, and other special events.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

  • Must be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment.
  • Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
  • Must possess a valid graduate certificate of training from a police academy approved by the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC).
    • Out of state lateral applicants: A person who has been employed as a police officer in another state may qualify for an exemption from recruit training. In order to determine whether they might qualify for this, an individual may request an advisory letter. Applicants who attended a police academy outside of Massachusetts should obtain an advisory letter from the Massachusetts Police Training Committee. This letter should indicate that the MPTC would act favorably on your request to become a police officer in Massachusetts.
  • No criminal convictions as required by law (felony, domestic assault, drug dealer, etc.)
  • Current valid driver’s license.
  • Current Massachusetts Class A License To Carry a firearm.
  • First Responder/CPR/AED/Narcan and Epi-pen certifications.
  • Must be a citizen of the United States.
  • Must possess the physical ability to perform duties required of a police officer.
  • Must possess strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Successful completion of two (2) oral board interviews and an interview with Chief of Police.
  • Successful completion of a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check.
  • Successful completion of a medical examination.
  • Recommendation upon completion of a psychological evaluation.
  • Successful completion of a background investigation process, including criminal, personal, financial inquiries to determine suitability of the candidate. (Note: Any prior conviction for a felony or untruthfulness in this background investigation process are automatic disqualifiers for employment)
  • Must possess the ability to work in all types of weather conditions, shift/squad assignments, and holidays as necessary.
  • Must be able to follow written and verbal instructions.

Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)

  • Demonstrated proficiency with firearms as mandated by the state.