Position Description – Public Safety Officer

POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position Title:	Public Safety Officer	FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Reports to:	Higher Ranking Officers (Chief, Lieutenant, or Sergeant)
Department:	Police Department
Date Prepared:	June 2005

BASIC FUNCTION

This position exists to provide regular and special detail police work in order to protect the quality of life for students, employees, and visitors on the ABAC campus. The position involves professional response to the need for the prevention and detection of crimes, as well as the need for maintaining general law and order.

NATURE & SCOPE

The position of Public Safety Officer reports to on-duty higher-ranking officers, such as Police Chief, Lieutenant, and Sergeant. The Public Safety Officer does not supervise any other employees.

The nature of public safety work requires all members of the Police Department to collaborate and work as a team. It is imperative that all Public Safety Officers perform the assigned duties at the assigned times in order to protect the ABAC campus.

Interpersonal communication skills are an essential and vital trait for public safety officers. Often, Public Safety Officers engage in public relations activities and interact with the public by giving out general information. At other times, a public safety officer is required to be assertive in order to quell a situation or resolve a dispute. It is important that the Public Safety Officer is able to communicate his/her message in an efficient and professional manner. In relation, patience is integral to success as a Public Safety Officer.

Public Safety Officers must be willing to work night and weekend shifts. They are called to put their lives in danger from time to time, so excellent decision making skills are critical.

Position Description – Public Safety Officer

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Ø Patrols assigned areas in police vehicle to monitor the safety of all persons

Ø Enforces traffic laws

Ø Completes paperwork for record of work completed

Ø Patrols on foot to ensure that doors are locked and secure

Ø Patrols in police vehicle to check buildings and property

Ø Gives information to the public and engages in public relations activities

Ø Responds to and reports regarding accidents and incidents

Ø Performs criminal investigations

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position carries no responsibility in the area of budget decisions.

SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

This position requires four years of high school or GED equivalent. Generally, little or no experience is required, although certification is necessary from the Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training Council (P.O.S.T.). In addition, the incumbent must maintain 20 hours per year of continuing education.