Police Officer (UPB) Full Time

Bradford Security – Pennsylvania-Bradford – (25006155)

Job Summary Enforces all state laws, seeks out illegal activities, responds to violations of law. Responds to telephone calls requiring law enforcement, investigates suspicious activity, patrols campus, and attends mandated trainings. Manages traffic, makes lawful arrests, and testifies in legal proceedings.

Essential Functions Responsibilities include ensuring public safety in a multi-cultural environment. Police Officer duties include vehicular and foot patrol of University property; enforcement of criminal and traffic laws; protection of persons and property; investigation of crimes; completion of police reports; testimony in court; and assistance to other law enforcement agencies.

Introduction

A Police Officer (UPB) plays a vital role in maintaining public safety, protecting communities, and upholding the law. Police officers are often the first responders in emergencies and are trusted by the public to maintain order and ensure that neighborhoods remain safe places to live and work. The role requires courage, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Being a police officer is more than just enforcing laws—it is about building trust within the community, responding to people in need, and making decisions that can affect the safety and well-being of others. A Police Officer assigned to UPB (University Police or Urban Patrol Branch, depending on department structure) is responsible for maintaining security in their assigned area while supporting broader law enforcement operations.

This role requires dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to justice. Officers must be prepared to handle challenging situations while remaining calm, fair, and respectful toward the people they serve.

Role Overview

A Police Officer (UPB) is responsible for patrolling assigned areas, preventing criminal activity, responding to emergencies, and assisting members of the community. The officer acts as a visible presence that helps deter crime and provides reassurance to the public.

Officers working in the UPB unit often focus on active patrol duties, monitoring public spaces, responding to incidents, and assisting with investigations when necessary. They may work closely with other law enforcement units, emergency responders, and local authorities to ensure effective coordination during critical situations.

The role requires physical readiness, mental alertness, and strong communication skills. Police officers must also maintain a high level of integrity and professionalism because they represent the law enforcement agency they serve.

Physical Effort

A physical fitness examination requiring running, jumping, sit-ups, and pushups is required. Ability to operate a motor vehicle and firearms. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or other related field from an accredited college or University. must have obtained Pennsylvania Act 120 certification prior to appointment; possess a valid PA driver’s license; as well as a safe driving record

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran. Assignment Category Full-time regular

Job Classification Staff.Police Officer

Job Family Safety & Security

Job Sub-Family Police

Campus Bradford

Minimum Education Level Required Bachelor’s Degree Minimum Years of Experience Required No experience required

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience? Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule Schedule varies by need

Work Arrangement On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.

Relocation Offered No

Visa Sponsorship Provided No

Background Check For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances The following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks are required prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Patrol and Public Safety

One of the primary responsibilities of a Police Officer (UPB) is conducting regular patrols within assigned areas. Patrols may be done on foot, by vehicle, or sometimes by bicycle depending on the location.

During patrols, officers observe their surroundings, identify suspicious activities, and take preventive action to reduce crime. A visible police presence often discourages illegal behavior and helps create a sense of security within the community.

Officers also check important locations such as public buildings, streets, parks, and residential areas to ensure everything remains safe and orderly.

2. Responding to Emergency Calls

Police officers are frequently the first people to respond to emergency calls. These situations may include accidents, disturbances, theft, assaults, or other incidents requiring immediate attention.

The officer must quickly assess the situation, ensure the safety of everyone involved, and take appropriate action. This may include providing first aid, securing a crime scene, assisting injured individuals, or coordinating with medical teams and firefighters.

Quick decision-making and calmness under pressure are essential qualities for officers responding to emergencies.

3. Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention

Another important duty of a Police Officer (UPB) is enforcing laws and regulations. Officers investigate suspicious activities, stop illegal actions, and issue warnings or citations when necessary.

They may also detain or arrest individuals who violate the law. While enforcing rules, officers must follow legal procedures carefully and treat all individuals with fairness and respect.

Crime prevention is also a key focus. Officers educate the public about safety measures and work with community members to reduce criminal activity in their area.

4 Assisting Investigations

While patrol officers focus mainly on public safety and incident response, they also support investigations when necessary.

Officers may collect evidence, interview witnesses, secure crime scenes, or assist detectives during investigations. Their observations and reports often play an important role in solving cases.

This collaborative work ensures that crimes are properly investigated and justice can be served.

Skills and Qualities Required

A Police Officer (UPB) must possess a combination of professional skills and personal qualities.

Integrity and honesty are essential because officers are entrusted with enforcing the law and protecting the public.

Physical fitness is important because the job can require long patrols, quick responses, and sometimes physically demanding situations.

Strong communication skills allow officers to interact effectively with the public, coworkers, and other emergency services.

Problem-solving ability is also critical. Officers must evaluate situations quickly and make decisions that ensure safety and fairness.

Finally, emotional resilience and patience are necessary when dealing with stressful or sensitive situations.

5. Opportunities for Career Growth

A career as a Police Officer (UPB) can open the door to many advancement opportunities. With experience and training, officers may move into specialized roles such as investigations, tactical units, training divisions, or supervisory positions.

Continuous training programs also help officers develop new skills and expand their professional knowledge.

6 Professional Development

Police departments often invest in training programs to improve officers’ abilities in areas such as conflict resolution, crisis management, and advanced law enforcement techniques.

This ongoing development allows officers to grow both personally and professionally.