University Police Sergeant

General Summary of Position:

The University Police Sergeant position is regulated by the Massachusetts Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). University Police Sergeants are appointed as sworn police officers pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws chapter 75, section 32A and chapter 90C which grants University Police Sergeants the same authority, immunities and privileges as a duly appointed and qualified sworn police officer acting elsewhere in the Commonwealth. Under the general supervision of the University Police Lieutenant, a Sergeant patrols assigned areas of property used, owned or occupied by the University of Massachusetts and areas adjacent to the university to provide a safe and secure environment for all members of the University community by means of an alert and vigilant preventive patrol. Patrol Sergeants provide first-line supervision of the activities of sworn and/or non-sworn personnel on a shift, who are engaged in patrol duty, bike patrol, criminal investigations, community relations, crime prevention activities, and in-service training activities. An employee in this class frequently participates in the work performed by subordinate officers and is responsible for performing related duties as required. The Patrol Sergeant's primary responsibility is to ensure the effective performance of duty by patrol personnel. Patrol Sergeants work independently in performing regularly assigned duties and assume complete charge in the event of the absence of a superior officer. Work is performed in accordance with federal, state, and local laws as well as university and departmental policies, procedures, and general orders. Work is reviewed by inspection, through verbal and written reports, and by results achieved.

Essential Functions:

• Supports the University of Massachusetts Boston Police Department mission and the policies and procedures in support of that mission.
• Exercises police powers under M.G.L. Ch. 75 s. 32A in the detection and apprehension of law violators; investigates crimes, accidents, and complaints.
• Patrols buildings and lands of the University ensuring the protection of persons and property.
• Creates and maintains a sense of safety and security within the University and adjacent areas.
• Assists in the maintenance of traffic control on lands of the University; enforces State motor vehicle laws.
• Maintains order at the scene of special events.
• Ensures that all evidence gathered meets chain of custody standards.
• Assists superior officers in supervision of all police and security personnel.
• Reviews police documentation including incident and accident reports for accuracy.
• Ensures that all prisoners in their care and custody are safely transported and processed.
• Conducts accident and crime investigations and prepares detailed reports.
• Provides public assistance, including lockout services, escorts, first aid, and vehicle jump-starts.
• Conducts inspections of police personnel and their equipment.
• Represents the department at community engagement events and meetings.
• Assumes charge of police and security in the absence of the command staff.
• Serves as Campus Security Authority as outlined by the Clery Act.
• Reports punctually to all assignments and responds immediately to all emergencies.
• May authorize the incurring of overtime for assigned personnel.

Other Functions:

• Performs related duties as assigned or required to meet Department, Executive Area/Division, and University goals and objectives.
• Understands responsibilities with respect to Title IX, Clery and other compliance requirements.
• Demonstrates capacity, skill, and willingness to engage students and contribute to student success.
• Works collaboratively with other campus stakeholders to fulfill the mission of the University.
• Contributes toward creating a positive and respectful workplace.
• Uses access to sensitive and/or not yet public university related information only in the performance of the responsibilities of position.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must possess a minimum of three (3) years of progressive law enforcement experience as a full-time sworn police officer.
• Must have successfully completed a Massachusetts Basic Police Training Program from an accredited police academy.

Special Requirements:

• Must be a U.S. citizen.
• Must possess valid driver’s license and the ability to obtain a valid MA driver license.
• Must possess valid MA license to carry.
• Ability to re-qualify with departmentally issued firearm and all departmentally issued non-lethal weapons.
• Be able to successfully complete a background check.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to work at any hour and in all weather conditions.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated ability to effectively supervise and coordinate the activities of police and security personnel.
• Training and experience in criminal investigations.
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of state laws, rules, and regulations.
• Working knowledge and understanding of Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act.
• Ability to make sound decisions and awareness of their consequences.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong commitment to the University’s mission and customer service.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred.

Supervision Received:

The incumbent receives direct supervision from the rank of Lieutenant or higher and acts under the general supervision of the Chief of Police/Director of Public Safety.

Application Instructions:

Please apply online with your resume, cover letter and list of three professional work references. Review of candidates will begin following the application closing date.