Police Officer

The Town of Topsail Beach is accepting applications for the position of a Police Officer in the Police Department.  An employee in this position performs a full range of general law enforcement duties.  Work includes patrolling the Town during an assigned shift in a police car, in a boat, on an ATV or on foot; preventing, detecting, and investigating disturbances and crime; performing traffic control work; performing parking control; apprehending suspects; and executing related assignments.  Employees must exercise judgment, initiative and calm control when performing duties. Work involves frequent public contact which requires tact, firmness, and decisiveness.  Work is performed in accordance with departmental policy and state and federal law, supplemented with specific directions from superior officers.  Employees work on shifts and are subject to hazards associated with law enforcement work including working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as dangerous persons, loud noises, and hazardous spills with fumes, oils, gases, or flammable liquids.  Work is subject to the final OSHA standards on blood borne pathogens.  Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated through observation, monitoring radio traffic, discussion, and review of reports for adherence to laws, department procedures, and proper judgment.  Work is performed under regular supervision of the chief of police.

Knowledge, Skills, and Ability Requirements:

Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances, and policies of the police department, especially relating to search and seizure, traffic control, pursuit, and arrest. Considerable knowledge of the geographical layout of the Town. Working knowledge of law enforcement principles, practices, methods, and equipment. Some knowledge of scientific crime detection and criminal identification methods and procedures. Some knowledge of the application of information technology to the work. Skill in the use of firearms and other police equipment and in the application of self-defense and de-escalation tactics, teamwork, and collaborative conflict resolution. Ability to act with sound judgment in routine and emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms. Ability to present effective court testimony. Ability to prepare clear and concise activity reports. Ability to build and maintain cooperative and effective public relations with citizens. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, court personnel and other public officials.

Desirable Education and Experience:

Graduation from high school and completion of basic law enforcement training; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirement:

Before assignment to sworn duties, employees must possess a valid North Carolina driver’s license and have completed at least the minimum requirements established by the North Carolina Justice Training and Standards Commission for certified law enforcement officers.