This is law enforcement work in the protection of life and property through patrol, investigation of a specialized nature, assistance to citizens, arrest and detention, and related activities.

Work involves prevention of crime, the enforcement of laws and ordinances, investigations of a specialized nature, crime scene investigations, apprehension of criminals, internal investigations, special assignments, patrolling of assigned areas, enforcement of traffic regulations, accident and crime scene investigations. Work involves an element of personal danger and investigator/officers must be able to act without direct supervision and must be able to exercise independent judgment in meeting complex emergency situations. Work is performed with independence within established policies and procedures, and is reviewed by superiors through observation of the effectiveness of work performed and results through reports, observations, and discussions.

Examines scene of crime, obtains clues, and gathers evidence; investigates suspected persons and reports progress of investigations; arrest or assist in arrest of criminals or suspects.

Conducts investigations to prevent crimes or solve criminal cases that deal with areas such as auto theft, armed robbery, missing person, homicide, vice, narcotics, fraud, crimes involving youth, crimes against persons, and crimes against property; investigates known or suspected criminals or facts of particular case to detect planned criminal activity or clues.

Prepares assigned cases for court according to formalized procedures; testifies before court and grand jury.

Investigates establishments and persons suspected of violating anti-vice laws, working as member of squads, conducts or participates in raids of such establishments.

Patrols a designated area of the City in a patrol car, by motorcycle, by bicycle or on foot; prevents and discovers commission of crime; apprehends criminals and offenders; enforces vehicle and traffic laws; makes police presence known in a manner that contributes toward deterrence of law violations.

Answers radio calls and complaints involving automobile accidents, misdemeanors, felonies, and a wide variety of domestic disturbances; assist mentally or physically ill persons, neglected children, and people involved in marital disturbances; prepares varied and related case, complaint, and shift reports.

Conducts major and minor accident investigations and preliminary investigations at the scenes of crimes; administers first-aid to persons; gathers evidence, locates and questions witnesses; makes arrest as required by circumstances, and testifies as a witness in court.

Establishes traffic control and police protection at incidents which may attract crowds; performs police duties at parades, processions, demonstrations, and sporting events; checks and reports on deficient street lights, signs, road surfaces, or other public facilities.

Performs complex and specialized investigations such as juvenile, vice, narcotics, crimes against persons, and crimes against property; participates in raids and stakeouts; interviews and counsels juveniles and parents; provides information to the public.

May investigate complaints filed by the general public concerning other police officers; may run background investigations regarding employment in the Police Department.

Performs inspections on large haul trucks; operates intoxilyzer 5000.

Performs front desk duty.

Takes various reports by phone.

Transports prisoners and persons to shelters.

Provide directions to citizens.

Performs related work as required.

Knowledge of contemporary police practices.

Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and ordinances, particularly the laws of arrest evidence.

Knowledge of the rules and regulations of the Police Department.

Ability to deal firmly and courteously with the public.

Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively, and to determine proper courses of action to be taken.

Ability to obtain information through interview and interrogation.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in the use and care of firearms and police vehicles.

Skill in the use of expandable baton and OC pepper spray.

Graduation from high school or GED equivalent, or any combination of education, training and experience that demonstrates the above listed knowledge, skills and abilities.

The work environment involves imminent danger from conditions or events that cannot be fully anticipated or protected against including life threatening conditions and pursuit driving. Work exposes the employee to individuals who may display violent, erratic behavior, carry communicable diseases and weapons. Firearms training exposes officers to loud noise from gunfire, however ear protection is worn.

Work requires the ability to sit and stand for extended periods, occasional running over possible rough or uneven terrain in the apprehension of suspects; bending, stooping, crouching in possibly confined spaces; the physical agility to restrain individuals; the physical dexterity in the use of hand-eye coordinate and manipulative skills in use of finger and limbs. Investigators wear ballistic vests and heavy-duty belts to carry weapons and other equipment.

Must meet specific requirements as stipulated by the Alabama Peace Officer Handbook: Training Commission and other legal criteria as required.

For basic Police Academy must meet all requirements set forth in APOST Rule 650-X-4-.02 and for Lateral Police Academy must meet all requirements as set forth in APOST Rule 650-X-4-.03.