Police Officer

Police Officers are integral to the community, tasked with maintaining a visible presence, enforcing laws, educating the public, responding to 911 calls, and providing a wide range of assistance to ensure public safety and support. Police Officers may serve as Field Training Officers (FTOs), investigators, on a task force, or other specialized assignments. Police Officers respond to emergencies, clear road debris, conduct traffic stops and DWI arrests, manage traffic crashes, coordinate emergency response, and direct traffic in various situations. Officers conduct investigations, prepare legally sound reports, and testify in court, often engaging in special roles like firearms instructor or community outreach beyond their regular duties. Officers can work out while on duty (staffing dependent), enjoy excellent health and dental insurance packages, and choose from 10- and 12-hour patrol shifts (staffing dependent), plus much more. The salary listed is based on the 2026 pay scale. Any general increase adjustments for 2027 have not yet been finalized and are not reflected in the posted salary. The position will remain open until filled. ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Patrol the City, proactively identifying and addressing criminal activity, traffic violations, hazardous conditions, and public safety concerns. Respond to 911 calls related to crime, mental health issues, general public service, and medical emergencies, providing appropriate assistance as needed. Conduct traffic stops and issue citations and warnings for violations. Communicate effectively with the public to assist in solving community problems. Document all actions and interactions both proactively and reactively during each call, ensuring the use of body cameras and writing thorough reports. Investigate crimes and suspicious situations to gather evidence and build cases. Mediate civil disputes to aid in a peaceful resolution or outcome. May serve in specialized assignments including, but not limited to, Field Training Officer (FTO), Firearms Instructor, Investigators, Emergency Response Functions, Task Force, School Resource Officer (SRO), Detective, and other assignments as directed by department leadership. Provide assistance and backup to fellow officers, neighboring agencies, and emergency responders as needed. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Strong communication skills for effectively de-escalating conflicts and managing crisis situations. Exercise independent judgment and discretion in resolving incidents, determining enforcement actions, and selecting appropriate responses consistent with law, department policy, and public safety considerations. Proficient writing skills for clear and comprehensive report writing. Effective speaking skills for conveying information and instructions clearly. Proficiency in firearms handling and safety. Skills in control and arrest techniques to ensure safety and compliance. Advanced driving skills for safe and efficient patrol operations. First responder medical training to provide emergency medical assistance. Time management and organizational skills, and the ability to work autonomously with minimal direct supervision. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department staff, other employees, vendors, residents, and the general public. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Associate’s degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, or related field. Completion of law enforcement skills program. Must meet all licensing requirements mandated by the MN POST Board pursuant to MN statutes. Must possess and maintain a valid Class D driver's license. DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in law enforcement, criminal justice, public administration, or related field. 1+ years of experience in law enforcement or related field. WORKING CONDITIONS Indoor and outdoor environments; exposure to computer screens; working closely with others; frequent interruptions. Frequent exposure to inclement weather conditions, exposure to working with moving objects/vehicles, as well as exposure to other hazards and dangers. The work is primarily field-based with the potential need for lifting of supplies up to 50 pounds. Attendance at Council meetings and other related sessions may be required. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Duties require maintaining physical condition necessary for: Sitting, communicating, listening and repetitive motions for prolonged periods of time. Standing and walking on a frequent basis. General eye/hand/foot coordination. Occasional need for lifting/carrying, balancing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, handling and feeling. INSTRUCTIONS: Applications will only be accepted electronically. Paper applications will not be considered. Applicants will be notified of their status through email only. Please attach a copy of your MN POST license or letter of eligibility, if applicable. Resumes are required to be considered and must be attached to the application. To be eligible for Veteran's Preference Points, all relevant documents must be attached to the application. (e.g. DD214, letter of service-related disability) SELECTION PROCESS: Candidates will be evaluated based on the following process: Application Review Panel Interviews Comprehensive and Thorough Background Investigation Interview with the Chief of Police Psychological