Police Officer

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. 

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.

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.