Park Police Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DUTIES: Under the supervision of the Chief of Park Police, the Police Sergeant is responsible for: 

• Supervising and directing assigned Park Police personnel during daily patrol operations and special events.

• Ensuring officers under his or her command comply with all departmental directives, policies, procedures, general orders, and applicable laws. 

• Assigning officers to specific duties, patrol assignments, and operational tasks as directed or as operational needs require.

• Assessing departmental training needs and coordinating Field Training Officer assignments, schedules, evaluations, and related records.

• Training, mentoring, and evaluating subordinate personnel and assisting in the professional development of officers.

• Reviewing reports, citations, case documentation, and related records for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with departmental standards.

• Participating in patrol functions, including vehicle patrol, foot patrol, facility checks, security inspections, and enforcement activities throughout Park District properties and facilities.

• Coordinating police operations for special events, recreational programs, community activities, festivals, and athletic events conducted within the Park District.

• Responding to and assisting with criminal investigations, traffic incidents, public disturbances, emergency situations, and other incidents requiring supervisory oversight.

• Coordinating with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies when necessary to support public safety operations.

• Assisting officers with investigations, evidence collection, report preparation, and problem-solving activities. 

• Aiding in the preparation and filing of reports concerning departmental activities, operations, and administrative functions.

• Assisting in the monitoring of departmental equipment, vehicles, supplies, and operational resources.

• Assisting the Chief of Park Police and/or Lieutenant with budget monitoring, operational planning, and departmental projects as assigned.

• Promoting positive community relations and supporting community-oriented policing initiatives throughout the Park District.

• Following all safety procedures established by the District and supporting all aspects of the Park District Safety Program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Must possess and maintain the physical and mental fitness necessary to perform the essential functions or the position.

• No color-blindness, vision corrected to 20/20 for both eyes.

• Must hold a valid State of Illinois Driver's License.

• The work requires periodic physical exertion in handling supplies, equipment, and materials relative to the services rendered.

• Prolonged standing, bending and stooping, and ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Police Science, Criminal Justice, Parks and Recreation, or a related field preferred. Must meet all requirements for certification as a law enforcement officer under the Illinois Police Training Act. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of law enforcement experience, preferably including supervisory, training, or field leadership responsibilities.

Personal: Integrity, initiative, sound judgment, professional appearance, and the ability to maintain positive working relationships with employees, community members, and partner agencies.

Physical: Must possess and maintain the physical and mental fitness necessary to successfully complete required medical examinations and meet all law enforcement certification and licensing standards. Must maintain all qualifications necessary for law enforcement certification and employment with the Peoria Park District Police Department.

Freedom to Act: Receives limited direction in the performance of assigned duties. Exercises independent judgment in supervising personnel, responding to incidents, coordinating operations, and resolving routine operational issues. Requests supervisory assistance when necessary. Performance is reviewed periodically through observation, reports, and achievement of departmental objectives.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITY:

• Thorough knowledge and understanding of law enforcement principles, practices, procedures, and community-oriented policing.

• Thorough knowledge of the Illinois Criminal Code, Illinois Juvenile Court Act, Illinois Vehicle Code, applicable ordinances, and other laws affecting law enforcement operations.

• Knowledge of Park District goals, objectives, programs, facilities, and operational standards.

• Ability to supervise, motivate, train, and evaluate assigned personnel.

• Ability to exercise sound judgment and make decisions in emergency and non-emergency situations.

• Ability to prepare, review, and maintain accurate reports and records.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, community groups, partner agencies, and the general public. 

• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 

• Ability to coordinate operations during emergencies, special events, and large public gatherings.

• Ability to follow and enforce all Park District policies, rules, regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws.

• Ability to maintain a positive public image for the Peoria Park District  and the Park Police department.

• Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and be equitable to both internal and external customers.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.  

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.  

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.