Job Abstract

Join a vibrant campus community whose excellence is reflected in its diversity and student success. West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Public Safety Department invites interested applicants for the Patrol Officer position.

West Chester University has a strong institutional commitment to inclusive excellence and nondiscrimination in its educational program and employment practices and encourages candidates who will further advance the goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

This position provides police services and protection to West Chester University students, employees, property, grounds, facilities, clientele, and the public in a fair and impartial manner. Public Safety’s mission is to work in partnership with the West Chester University community to provide a safe and secure learning, living, and working environment. The department endeavors to foster an atmosphere in which officers provide a prompt, professional presence to remain aware of and responsive to the diverse community in which they serve, while justly enforcing the rules and regulations of the University and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Public Safety Department is committed to upholding the University mission of fostering leadership for the common good by providing a safe and secure learning, living, and working environments for all members of our vibrant and diverse community. The patrol officer works under the direction of the Director of Public Safety or his/her designee.

The ideal candidate possesses knowledge of the Commonwealth Crimes Code and Vehicle Code, modern police tactics and a firm understanding of the law enforcement guardianship mentality. The ideal candidate must embrace the concept of fair and impartial enforcement by providing a prompt, professional presence to remain aware of and responsive to the diverse community in which they serve with respect for the rights of our diverse community.

This position requires the ability to work rotating shifts as assigned. Must be able to work nights, weekends, and overtime. All certifications must be kept current. Ability to meet such qualifications regarding strength, agility, and health may be required.

Responsibilities include:

• Investigate criminal incidents and missing persons cases, act as custodian of personal property and evidence being held for court presentation and maintain proper records of property, evidence, and automobiles held or impounded
• Conduct high visibility patrols of the campus, either on foot or by vehicle, and/or bike to ensure the security of facilities and the safety of students, staff, and visitors; prevent and deter crime by observation and confrontation of unusual circumstances and individuals
• Take enforcement action and make apprehensions as required; complete all necessary documentation including preparation of summonses or warrants, affidavits, reports, referrals, and arrest paperwork; notify supervisors of all enforcement related actions
• Respond to calls for assistance, fire, burglary alarms, and emergencies on campus.
• Complete and file reports
• Assist other local law enforcement in the direction of the senior officer
• Provide security and law enforcement services at University events and provide transportation to students and other visitors to campus
• File charges for violations of Commonwealth laws and/or enforce vehicle code violations
• Direct traffic, enforce parking regulations, make arrests, serve warrants, transport prisoners, take fingerprints, transport funds for University deposits
• Testify in court and attend arraignments and hearings
• Perform building checks for safety hazards, mechanical problems, failures, and other deficiencies
• Perform other related police duties as assigned

• Applicant must be Act 120 certified and/or have Act 120 certification by anticipated hire date and have one year of police experience; Act 120 certification qualifies as one year of police experience
• Must possess a valid Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle operator's license

• Knowledge of laws, rules and regulations governing motor vehicle operation and personal conduct for employees or visitors at commonwealth facilities
• Individuals will employ independent judgment with some supervision
• Knowledge of Commonwealth provisions for emergency situations
• Knowledge of modern police tactics and community engagement practices
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations and to determine proper courses of action
• Ability to enforce laws and regulations fairly while maintaining a respectful demeanor
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions
• Experience working with college-age population; parking; crowd control

Candidates must apply online at https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/wcupa. Resume, cover letter and list of references are required for an application to be considered for the position.

All applications for this position must be submitted via our online application/resume system ONLY. Please do not fax, mail, or e-mail any documentation.

The salary for this position is determined by the POA Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Applicants must successfully complete the application and interview process, including reference checks, to be considered as a finalist.

Offer of employment is subject to and contingent upon satisfactory completion of all pre-employment checks which includes background check clearances (PA Criminal, Child Abuse Clearance & FBI Clearance), psychological evaluation, physical examination, and drug testing. The associated costs will be paid for by the University.

Developing and sustaining a diverse faculty and staff advances WCU's educational mission. The University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer encouraging diversity. Women, persons of color, veterans, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.