POLICE OFFICER
qualifications
Knowledge of:
Common traffic and behavioral laws, emergency response procedures, firearms handling, legal use of force principles, safe vehicle operation, substance abuse prevention, physical fitness standards, and background investigation procedures for law enforcement suitability.
Ability to:
Must possess a substantial working knowledge of common laws governing traffic and general behavior, ensuring they can effectively enforce regulations. They should demonstrate the ability to remain composed and act swiftly in emergency situations, maintaining public safety. Furthermore, candidates must be capable of acquiring proficiency in handling firearms and other weapons safely and responsibly. It’s essential that they do not hold conscientious objections to the judicious use of force when necessary for fulfilling their duties. Proficiency in safe and efficient vehicle operation is also required. Additionally, candidates must be free from drug or alcohol addiction and able to pass a physical ability/agility test. Moreover, they must undergo a thorough background investigation, including fingerprint searches at the local, state, and national levels, to confirm their good moral character and absence of felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude.
becoming a police officer
Salary Range:
$30.17/HR – $47.14/HR (Effective July 1, 2024)
The work of this class involves responsibility for the protection of life and property, prevention of crime, apprehension of criminals and the general enforcement of laws and ordinates in a designated area or an assigned shift or on special assignments.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Patrols city streets for crime suppression and provides public service
- Reviews reports, statistics, and other compiled information to determine areas in need of selective enforcement
- Provides inspection services through patrol activities
- Provides contact with the public during routine patrol engagement.
- Handles various types of incidents coming to his/her attention either as a called for service or request from the public while on patrol
- Provides traffic supervision as called for service or comes to his/her attention while on patrol.
- Conducts criminal investigations for case clearance and/or solution
- Collects, handles, stores, preserves, & examines evidence of all types
- Participates in the training program of the department:
- Engages in Community Relations activities Â
- Prepares official police reports for both internal and external use
- Other duties as assigned
Education:
High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.
Other Requirements:
Must be a United States citizen. Additionally, they need to reach a minimum age requirement of 21 years by the time they graduate from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA). If they have already completed their training at ILEA or a recognized law enforcement academy accepted by ILEA, they must still be 21 years old by the start of their employment with the City of Council Bluffs. Furthermore, candidates must be capable of obtaining a valid driver’s license from their state of residence. These qualifications ensure that prospective officers meet the essential standards necessary for effective law enforcement service.
Physical Conditions:
Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use their hands for tasks such as grasping or manipulating objects, reach with their arms, and engage in activities involving climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling. Additionally, clear vision, speech, and hearing are essential for effective communication and situational awareness. Furthermore, candidates must adhere to minimum standards set forth by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy and the Municipal Fire and Police Retirement System (MFPRSI). They should possess the capability to work both indoors and outdoors, regardless of weather conditions, and be prepared for extended periods of duty in high-stress environments.