Police Officer

Are you passionate about safety, community engagement, and making a difference in a dynamic educational environment? Columbia State Community College is seeking a dedicated Police Officer to protect and serve our vibrant campus community at our Lawrence County Campus.

Why Join Us?

*Opportunity to contribute to a safe and supportive educational environment.
*Engage in meaningful work that impacts the lives of students and staff.
*Competitive benefits and opportunities for professional growth.

Job Purpose:  The Police Officer works under the general supervision of the direct supervisor.  Advice and guidance are available from the supervisor as needed for complex issues or exceptions to policy.  Work is performed in investigating incidents and accidents, protecting property, facilities, citizens, staff and students by law enforcement. 

This position is based at the Lawrenceburg, TN Campus.

Essential Functions:                                                                                       

1. Patrols the campus by foot, bicycle or motor vehicle.
2. Works with local law enforcement to investigates suspected crimes, reports findings, and arrests suspected individuals.
3. Works with local law enforcement to investigates accidents involving persons or property, reports probable cause of accidents, and pursues appropriate course of action.
4. Directs and controls traffic.
5. Testifies in court or legal proceedings.
6. Issues citations for parking violations.
7. Operates and maintains law enforcement equipment.
8. Keeps records and makes reports.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.
10. Make recommendations to the Chief of Public Safety on the development and implementation of comprehensive security programs, policies, and procedures. 
11. Conduct security related training as necessary.
12. Work with Chief of Public Safety to plan, organize and implement security for campus functions or special events.
13. Serve as liaison with Contract Security Company/Security Officers.   Provide guidance in coordination with Chief of Public Safety for the Contract Security Officers. 
14. Collaborate with local officials to address matters of mutual concern
15. Respond to requests for assistance from students, faculty, and staff (i.e. jump starting cars, unlocking doors, giving directions, etc.)
16. Ensure that all Columbia State Public Safety equipment is adequately maintained.
17. Serve on College committee’s as assigned.

Supplemental Functions:

1. Other duties as assigned by the Chief of Public Safety. 

Job Specifications:

Education, Training and Experience Required:

1. High School Diploma
2. Tennessee driver’s license.
3. Crisis management training and experience.
4. Meets the requirements of a Certified Police Officer, per TCA 38-8-107, including completion or attendance and completion of a law enforcement academy curriculum approved by the Tennessee Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.
5. Not have been convicted of or pleaded guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere   to any felony charge or to any violation of any federal or state laws or city ordinances relating to force, violence, theft, dishonesty, gambling, liquor or controlled substances.  
6. Not have been released or discharged under any other than honorable discharge from any of the armed forces of the United States; 
7. Have his/her fingerprints on file with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation;
8. Have passed a physical examination by a licensed physician;
9. Maintain all training to ensure POST certification at all times.
10. Be free of all apparent mental disorders as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical manual of Mental Disorders, (DSM- current edition) of the American Psychiatric Association.  Applicants must be certified as meeting these criteria by a qualified professional in the psychiatric or psychological fields
11. May be required to achieve additional skill, knowledge, or credential levels. Meet those standards now required or which in the future may be required by the Tennessee State Board of Regents and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

     Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Work Characteristics:

1. Ability to operate two-way radios, computers, printers, cell phones and other law enforcement equipment applicable to the office of Campus Safety and Security.
2. Thorough knowledge of criminal justice, law enforcement, and higher education protocols/procedures
3. Thorough knowledge of Uniform Crime Report definitions
4. Excellent interpersonal, problem solving, organizational, written and communication skills
5. Ability to work with local community and leadership
6. Understanding of and appreciation for current student issues
7. Ability to handle crisis situations
8. Ability to relate to and interact effectively with diverse populations
9. Background in emergency management
10. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Products.

Working Conditions:

1. Some lifting.
2. Above normal walking.
3. Exposure to all types of weather.
4. Driving campus vehicles.
5. Carrying a firearm.

Hiring Salary Range: $42,590- $51,100

This position is based at the Lawrenceburg, TN Campus.

About Columbia State Community College:

As Tennessee’s first community college (established in 1966), Columbia State is committed to increasing access and enhancing diversity at all five of our campuses.  Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.  Columbia State is known for excellence both inside and outside the classroom.

Columbia State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:

• Vacation and Sick Leave
• 14 paid holidays
• Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
• Retirement plans
• Optional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation Plans
• Educational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependents

Columbia State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, age (as applicable), status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other category protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies:

Executive Director of Human Resources
humanresources@columbiastate.edu
1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401
931-540-2501