Police Officer
Vanderbilt University
Police Officer
Vanderbilt University
Private research and higher education institution
About the Work Unit:
Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is led by the Office of the Chief of Police in the Division of Administration. VUPS is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals united by a shared commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all in the Vanderbilt community. Organized into several specialized units, our department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff, all working collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of community-based policing. #VUrecruitIND
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Community-Oriented Policing & Patrol
Conduct proactive patrols of assigned zones to deter crime, identify security risks, and implement localized crime prevention strategies.
Take a lead role in identifying security-related conditions and resolving issues through collaborative partnerships with designated zone contacts.
Provide safety, crime prevention, and community policing information during patrol duties; develop and deliver personal safety classes, crime prevention presentations, and orientation sessions for students and employees.
Establish and maintain positive relationships with university members and surrounding communities; coordinate efforts with Community Relations personnel on physical security and safety concerns.
Offer guidance and support to community members navigating the criminal justice system and related processes.
Emergency and Incident Response
Serve as a first responder for all emergency incidents, including but not limited to: fire, panic, and holdup alarms; hazardous material spills; traffic crashes; crimes in progress; and medical emergencies.
Respond to general calls for service, including facility access, motor vehicle assistance, personal safety escorts, and secure transport of persons or valuables.
Provide mutual aid and backup support to departmental personnel and external law enforcement agencies as requested.
Assist medical personnel in the detention and secure transport of psychiatric patients to courts or other facilities.
Investigations and Enforcement
Conduct initial investigations of criminal activity, accidents, and incidents; protect and maintain crime scenes, coordinating with the Criminal Investigations Unit (CIU) for specialized cases.
Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects; inform involved parties of available options and next steps.
Execute field stops, conduct interviews, make arrests, and issue citations or warnings in accordance with state law and departmental policy.
Prepare and submit accurate documentation, including offense reports, follow-up reports, citations, and warnings; may conduct photo lineups or other follow-up investigative duties.
Review and provide feedback on incident reports and documentation for accuracy when delegated.
Training and Development
Support the onboarding and mentoring of new officers when assigned.
Share best practices and departmental standards to promote professional growth among peers.
Judicial and Administrative Proceedings
Appear in municipal, state, and federal courts as a prosecuting officer or witness, providing factual and accurate testimony.
Execute searches of prisoners and maintain secure custody of arrested individuals throughout the booking process.
Provide testimony and supporting documentation at university administrative hearings as required.
Special Events and Assignments
Provide security, crowd control, and order maintenance for special events such as athletic competitions, concerts, commencement ceremonies, and visits by dignitaries.
Coordinate security details with relevant internal and external agencies as necessary.
Assist in coordinating special assignments, escorts, and event security details.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Supervisory Relationships:
This position has no supervisory responsibility and reports administratively and functionally to the assigned shift Sergeant.
Qualifications:
Education
A High School Diploma or General Educational Development (G.E.D.) equivalent is required.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Must complete and pass the departmental competency examination for consideration.
Certifications & Licensing
Ability to obtain a special police commission from the Chief Law Enforcement Official in Metropolitan Nashville within nine (9) months and maintain annual recommissioning.
Ability to meet requirements for Tennessee P.O.S.T. certification within the first nine (9) months of appointment.
Successful completion of an annual department-authorized and POST-approved in-service training course (minimum 40 hours).
Must successfully complete the department Field Training Program (FTP) within the designated timeframe.
Experience
Three (3) years of experience as a police officer is required.
Specialized Expertise
Must demonstrate commitment and assignment in one of the following areas:
Firearms Training/Safety and/or Specialized Instructor
Field Training Officer (FTO)
State Certified Trainer
RAD Trainer
Background & Health Requirements
Must pass a thorough background investigation and drug test demonstrating good moral character, a good driving record, and no prior criminal convictions that would prohibit certification under the State of Tennessee Private Protective Services Act.
Must pass a medical and psychological evaluation.
Must obtain required immunizations and medical tests for work in patient care and high-risk areas.
Skills
Strong organizational, interpersonal, intercultural, communication, and presentation skills.
Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds.
Ability to maintain harmonious relationships within the department.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
Must be able to stand for long periods, walk, climb, and lift; meet departmental standards for appearance and grooming.
Must be available to work nights, weekends, holidays, and in inclement or extreme weather conditions.
Must be able to use precautionary equipment (e.g., TB mask) and may encounter hazardous materials, infectious diseases, blood-borne pathogens, loud noises, and potential physical danger from violent individuals.
May be confined to a patrol car for an entire shift.
Private research and higher education institution
Vanderbilt University operates as a private research institution that provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional education to over 11,000 students. The university functions by integrating classroom instruction with active research initiatives, allowing students and faculty to collaborate on projects across various fields such as information technology, athletics, and the arts. Unlike many large public institutions, Vanderbilt maintains a smaller student body and emphasizes a community-driven environment where diversity of thought and culture is central to the learning process. The university distinguishes itself by operating at a "global crossroads," focusing on a multidisciplinary approach that encourages employees and students to apply their expertise to real-world challenges. Vanderbilt’s goal is to foster a center for growth and discovery where individuals can expand their knowledge and contribute to societal improvements through education and research.
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