Description
Maintain public order and protect life and property by enforcing local and state laws and ordinances. Patrol assigned areas; respond to emergencies; direct traffic; issue citations; investigate crimes and collisions; apprehend and arrest suspects; and engage in community policing in neighborhoods and schools.
- • Identify, pursue, and arrest suspects of criminal acts.
- • Provide for public safety by maintaining order, responding to emergencies, protecting people and property, enforcing traffic and criminal laws, and building community relations.
- • Patrol assigned areas by vehicle, bicycle, or on foot to deter and detect violations; issue citations and make arrests.
- • Monitor traffic and conduct stops to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and safe driving practices.
- • Investigate illegal or suspicious activity; stop, question, and, when lawful, search individuals and vehicles.
- • Respond to and investigate crimes, traffic collisions, and other incidents; determine causes and whether crimes occurred.
- • Secure, preserve, and process crime and accident scenes; photograph, diagram, and collect evidence.
- • Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects; obtain statements.
- • Render first aid and request medical assistance when needed.
- • Evaluate calls for service and information from the public to determine response requirements.
- • Communicate with dispatch and other units to coordinate responses and share information.
- • Request and coordinate backup units, EMS, and other resources as needed.
- • Execute arrest warrants and take persons into custody.
- • Determine probable cause and recommend appropriate charges; verify correct application of statutes.
- • Prepare clear, accurate reports and records documenting incidents, arrests, use of force, evidence, and activities.
- • Testify in court and administrative hearings as a witness in traffic and criminal cases.
- • Direct traffic and establish perimeters; reroute motorists during emergencies, collisions, or special events.
- • Control access to secured areas and incident scenes; screen and direct individuals as appropriate.
- • Provide security and maintain order at public events, schools, and city facilities.
- • Transport detainees to detention facilities or medical care, ensuring safety and security.
- • Process and book arrestees; complete custody documentation and property inventory.
- • Inform and assist citizens; refer individuals to community services and resources for long-term solutions.
- • Execute search warrants and lawfully seize contraband; maintain chain of custody for evidence.
- • Assist motorists with directions, disabled vehicles, or safety concerns.
- • Place individuals in protective custody when required for safety.
- • Conduct community outreach and education programs on topics such as crime prevention, drugs, and violence.
- • Adhere to departmental policies, legal standards, and ethical conduct; maintain equipment and readiness.
- • Use de-escalation and conflict-resolution techniques to resolve disputes and minimize use of force.
Related specializations
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Available on paid plans only
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Public Service & Safety
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
