This class is the first and journey level in the Police series that performs law enforcement, crime prevention, security, traffic control, and public safety functions for an educational institution or other independent agency. Positions in this class perform a variety of law enforcement police duties in order to protect state or client property and provide a safe, secure environment for employees, students, and clients. Positions in this class exercise full police powers authorized by the Code of Virginia, within a limited jurisdiction, and carry weapons. This class is distinguished from the Police Investigator class by the latter’s focus on investigative work. This class is distinguished from the Police Sergeant class by its emphasis on patrol and monitoring responsibilities.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty which typically includes: patrolling state controlled property, buildings, warehouses, storage areas or grounds on foot or in a vehicle to enforce laws and regulations, prevent crime, investigate/control disturbances, and protect life and property. Work also includes controlling crowds, traffic, parking, and pedestrians; issuing tickets/citations to traffic/parking violators; reporting traffic accidents; and conducting accident investigations. Positions respond to emergencies and requests for assistance; administer aid; note suspicious persons or unusual events; prepare and update a variety of logs, records and reports; conduct initial investigations and secure evidence; apprehend, detain, and arrest suspects within jurisdictional boundaries. May serve legal papers as required; testify in court and at administrative hearings; provide escort to students or staff, visitors, dignitaries, and persons transporting money. This class also provides information and gives directions to employees, clients, and visitors; monitors building and facility security and reports hazards which may endanger public safety. May monitor and observe a variety of systems and equipment for malfunctioning or inoperative conditions; operate a variety of communication and police equipment. May act as dispatcher; may participate in crowd control or work as special security officer during facility sponsored functions; or may be required to use cameras, radar, and/or fingerprint equipment.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from a Police Sergeant or higher-level police authority.

Scope: Positions in this class perform work which affects and facilitates the safety and security of assigned areas, employees, students, clients and visitors, within an independent agency’s or educational institution's jurisdiction.

Impact of Actions: Actions affect the compliance with laws and regulations by employees, students, and clients and the protection and security of public and private property and materials. Decisions and actions could moderately impact the agency in terms of time, money, services and public/employee goodwill if assigned areas are not adequately safeguarded.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contact with employees, other law enforcement agencies, students, visitors, and clients in order to enforce laws and regulations and to provide information and assistance.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of the principles, practices, procedures and techniques of law enforcement and security, and applicable laws and regulations.

Skills: Working skill in the use of police equipment relevant to the job, and in the use of carried weapons.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to apply and interpret laws, rules and regulations; to perform investigations; and to effectively communicate both orally and in writing. Demonstrated ability to meet physical demands of job duties.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and a valid Virginia drivers license.

Other Requirements: Must be a United States citizen.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalency.

Level and Type of Experience: None required for entrance into this class.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was redefined and re-titled in June 1988 as a result of the Statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. This class replaces the Port Police Officer and Campus Police Officer classes.

Last updated: 7/1/88