Police Officer I

Protect. Serve. Lead. The City of Clinton Police Department is seeking motivated, ethical, and community-minded individuals who are committed to making a difference. Whether you are beginning your law enforcement career or an experienced officer seeking a department that values your work, we invite you to join a professional team dedicated to protecting our community through integrity, service, and excellence. As a Police Officer I, you will perform a variety of law enforcement duties to preserve public safety, protect life and property, enforce federal, state, and local laws, and build positive relationships within the community. Officers receive extensive training, modern equipment, and opportunities for career advancement while serving one of South Carolina's most welcoming communities. Why Join the Clinton Police Department? Competitive salary with opportunities for advancement (salary DOQ) South Carolina Police Officer Retirement System (PORS) Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities State-certified law enforcement training Specialized unit opportunities include: Criminal Investigations K-9 Unit School Resource Officer Community Policing Traffic Enforcement Special Response Team (as available) Modern patrol equipment and technology Supportive leadership and family-oriented work environment Position Summary Police Officers serve as the front line of public safety by responding to emergency and non-emergency calls, preventing crime, conducting investigations, enforcing traffic laws, protecting citizens, and fostering strong relationships throughout the community. This position requires sound judgment, professionalism, integrity, and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Patrol assigned areas by vehicle and foot. Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service. Enforce federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Conduct preliminary and follow-up criminal investigations. Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects. Collect, preserve, and document evidence. Prepare accurate incident and investigative reports. Make lawful arrests when appropriate. Testify in court proceedings. Conduct traffic enforcement and investigate vehicle collisions. Assist citizens during emergencies and disasters. Participate in community policing initiatives. Provide security at special events. Serve warrants and subpoenas. Operate department vehicles and law enforcement equipment safely. Work collaboratively with other law enforcement agencies. Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Applicants must: Be at least 21 years of age. Be a United States citizen. Possess a high school diploma or GED. Hold a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Successfully complete an extensive background investigation. Pass a criminal history review. Pass a psychological evaluation. Pass a medical examination. Pass a drug screening. Meet all South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy certification requirements or be eligible to attend the Academy. Certified South Carolina Class I Law Enforcement Officers are encouraged to apply. Preferred Qualifications Preference may be given to applicants who possess: South Carolina Class I Certification Prior law enforcement experience Military service Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or related field Bilingual communication skills Specialized law enforcement certifications Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Successful candidates should demonstrate: Excellent communication skills Strong ethical standards Sound judgment and decision-making Ability to solve problems under pressure Professional appearance and demeanor Excellent report writing abilities Conflict resolution skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team Commitment to community-oriented policing Physical Requirements The position requires the ability to: Stand, walk, run, and climb for extended periods. Lift and carry equipment and individuals when necessary. Operate law enforcement vehicles safely. Wear body armor and duty equipment. Use firearms and defensive tactics safely. Work in adverse weather and hazardous environments. Work Schedule Police Officers work 12-hour shifts, including: Days Nights Weekends Holidays Overtime when necessary Emergency call-outs during disasters or critical incidents Hiring Process Qualified applicants may be required to complete: Employment Application Preliminary Screening Oral Interview Physical Agility Assessment (if applicable) Comprehensive Background Investigation Polygraph Examination (if required) Psychological Evaluation Medical Examination Drug Screening Conditional Offer of Employment Required Application Documents Applicants should be prepared to provide: Valid Driver's License Birth Certificate Social Security Card High School Diploma or GED College Transcripts (if applicable) Military DD-214 (if applicable) South Carolina Law Enforcement Certification (if applicable) Employment History Professional References Join Our Team A career with the Clinton Police Department is more than a job—it's an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community you serve. If you are committed to integrity, professionalism, and service, we encourage you to apply today to join a department dedicated to protecting and serving the citizens of Clinton. General Disclaimer The duties described in this job announcement are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, knowledge, skills, abilities, or working co