This class is the first supervisory level in the Police Series that performs duties in law enforcement, crime prevention, security, traffic control, and 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 as authorized by the Code of Virginia, within a limited jurisdiction, and carry weapons. This class is distinguished from the Police Officer class by the exercise of supervisory responsibilities over a unit of field officers or other staff. It is distinguished from the Police Lieutenant by its limited supervisory responsibility and actual participation in the day-to-day field patrol activities.

Complexity of Work: Positions in this class perform work of moderate difficulty which requires the exercise of independent judgment in enforcing rules and regulations concerning the protection of life and property, and in supervising the work of subordinates. Positions typically make assignments and work schedules of police officers and/or other subordinate staff, review subordinate’s reports and forms for accuracy and completeness and may direct departmental student work programs. This class evaluates performance and recommends disciplinary actions of subordinate personnel; recommends, supervises, or conducts the training of assigned personnel; acts as liaison between their unit personnel and police or facility administration and between the department and federal, state and local police agencies. Positions may conduct crime scene searches and collect evidence or may make investigation referrals to an investigative unit; may investigate or supervise investigations of criminal activities; may patrol, on foot or in a vehicle, facility grounds and inspect buildings; evaluate and report potential safety hazards; issue summonses and citations; make arrests; transport law violators; testify in court; respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service; and determine appropriate actions. May provide and obtain information related to the facility for the public. Positions may require the use of cameras, radar and fingerprint equipment, and active participation in crowd and strike control and in crime prevention programs.

Supervision Given: Provides general supervision to a unit or shift of police officers and/or other subordinate staff.

Supervision Received: Performs work under general supervision of a Police Lieutenant or other higher level police authority.

Scope: Positions in this class are responsible for activities which affect the supervision of law enforcement efforts, investigation of crimes, apprehension of law offenders; and the prevention of criminal activities within the jurisdictional area of the position.

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 contacts with employees, 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. Some knowledge of principles and practices of supervision.

Skills: Considerable 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; to effectively communicate both orally or in writing; to supervise or lead others in the performance of assigned tasks; to maintain positive public relations; and to meet physical demands of job duties.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Certification by the Virginia Department Criminal Justice Services and possession of a valid Virginia driver’s license.

Other Requirements: Must be a United States citizen.

Education and Training: Graduation from high school or equivalency, and training related to the duties of the position.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience in security, law enforcement, an safety.

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 Sergeant and Campus Police Sergeant classes.

Last updated: 7/1/88