STATE POLICE MASTER TROOPER 71116

5/1/91 D

This is the fourth class in the State Police Trooper series. Positions in this class meet the criteria of the State Police career progression program as mandated by the Code of Virginia (1987 General Assembly). Positions in this class perform a wide variety of law enforcement, crime prevention, highway patrol, traffic control, accident prevention, investigative and related administrative duties in order to protect citizens, visitors, public highways, and property of the Commonwealth. Positions in this class exercise full police powers in all jurisdictions as authorized by the Code of Virginia and carry weapons. This class is distinguished from the State Police Senior Trooper class by its occasional responsibility for completing assignments of a more sensitive nature requiring a higher level of judgment and maturity. It is distinguished from the State Police Sergeant class by the latter's responsibility for direct supervision of all levels of troopers.

Complexity of Work: Positions in this class perform work of considerable difficulty, which requires the exercise of independent judgment in patrolling highways to enforce laws relating to the operation of motor vehicles and controlling traffic to prevent accidents; conducting accident investigations; detecting, investigating, and apprehending persons for law violations; enforcing criminal laws; arresting suspects and executing warrants of arrest; writing reports and taking acknowledgments and affidavits; communicating with the public on various law enforcement issues; providing directions to motorists; testifying in court and administrative hearings; providing escort for citizens and dignitaries; investigating and monitoring official inspection stations; enforcing hazardous material and motor carrier safety regulations; conducting background investigations; making presentations to enhance public relations and attract prospective applicants for employment; conducting public awareness programs; providing leadership to new and/or less experienced troopers; coordinating or directing law enforcement efforts related to events requiring large numbers of state troopers; coordinating protection efforts which involve other law enforcement agencies; instructing at the State Police Academy or other schools; and performing administrative duties. Coordinates use of the Virginia Criminal Information Network by training law enforcement/criminal justice personnel on crime definition methods; auditing criminal history ledgers and network files for proper dissemination of information; and inspecting sites to ensure that equipment is properly secured. Provides protection to the Governor, first family, and dignitaries, which may include security and law enforcement coverage at major events and during travel.

Supervision Given: Supervision typically is not a factor; however, positions provide guidance and direction to less experienced troopers; and may oversee, coordinate, or direct law enforcement activities related to major events.

Supervision Received: Receives direction from a State Police Sergeant or other higher level police authority.

Scope: Positions in this class perform work that affects and promotes the safety and security of citizens, visitors, interstate highways, and property, normally within an assigned geographical district.

Impact of Actions: Actions affect compliance with laws of the Commonwealth and protection of the public and property. Improper decisions and actions, or failure to enforce the laws of the Commonwealth, could adversely affect the agency in terms of time, money, services, and public/employee goodwill, and could negatively affect the welfare of the Commonwealth and its citizens.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contacts with the public, law enforcement agencies, other state agencies, and court system/government officials in order to enforce laws and regulations, and to provide information and assistance.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of criminal and traffic laws and their applications; of department rules and regulations; of investigative techniques and procedures; of laws of arrest, and of the rules of evidence.

Skills: Considerable skill in the use of firearms and other carried weapons; and in the operation of specially equipped motor vehicles.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; to interpret and follow oral and written instructions, rules, and regulations; to apply and interpret laws; to perform investigations; to lead and direct the work of others; to conduct formal classroom instruction; and to meet the physical demands of the job responsibilities, including the ability to chase down (on foot), restrain, and apprehend suspects.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services; and a Virginia driver's license.

Other Requirements: Must be a United States citizen, meet the requirements of a background investigation; and successfully complete a physical examination conducted under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Career Progression Program Criteria: Minimum of one year's service as a State Police Senior Trooper; satisfactory performance appraisal; leadership potential demonstrated by performance and assessment techniques; completion of academic courses; driving proficiency; and adherence to disciplinary and weight control standards.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and successful completion of the Basic Training School at the State Police Academy.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience as a State Police Senior Trooper.

The qualifications for this class were determined by the Department of State Police and the Department of Personnel and Training, and approved by the Secretary of Public Safety, pursuant to the provisions of the 1987 Appropriations Act.

This class was established in accordance with legislation enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia through the 1987 Appropriations Act and was redefined as a result of the Classification Review/Specification Update Program in May, 1989; updated May, 1991.