Police Recruit I (Multiple Positions)

Position Highlights

The University of Arizona Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency that serves a vibrant community. We work in the most densely populated area of Tucson and enjoy a unique environment that can only be experienced at an institution of higher learning. Our sworn personnel are full-authority Arizona Peace Officers whose primary functions are crime control, traffic safety, community engagement, and crime prevention. We offer a variety of career paths and specialty assignments. More importantly, we offer a purpose.

The University of Arizona Police Department is seeking motivated entry level applicants to fill the position of Police Officer Recruit. Candidates must demonstrate effective critical thinking skills, exhibit sound judgment, and be in good physical and mental health. UAPD officers must be committed to public safety, civil service, integrity, and professionalism. This position has a one-year probation period. Qualifying sworn personnel are afforded opportunities for rank and lateral advancement as well as specialty assignments within the department.

The UAPD has a step compensation plan. The pay rate for recruit officers is $56,238, which is $27.038 per hour, and will increase to step one $57,925, which is $27.849 per hour, after graduation from the police academy.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

As a Recruit:

• Attends a minimum of a twenty-four-week training program under the supervision of AZPOST instructors to acquire the minimum knowledge and skills necessary to perform in Police Officer classification.
• Reads and studies instructional or informational material to achieve elementary working knowledge.
• Prepares for and takes written and physical tests to prove knowledge and skill levels.
• Obtains certification upon meeting AZPOST established minimum standards and passing required examinations (or waiver examinations) within a six (6) month period.

As an Officer Upon Graduation:

• Upon academy graduation, successfully complete the departmental Post Basic Program.
• Successfully completes the UAPD Field Training Program under the supervision and guidance of assigned Field Training Officer.
• Receives performance evaluations from assigned Field Training Officer to track progress.
• Safeguards life and property though enforcement of state laws and university administrative rules.
• Responds to public safety emergencies and calls for police service.
• Detects suspicious and criminal activity for the purpose of improving public safety conditions.
• Participates in proactive traffic enforcement and detection of impaired drivers.
• Investigates crimes, crashes, and suspicious activity.
• Affects detentions and arrests.
• Collects and processes evidence.
• Writes, reviews, and submits incident and crash reports.
• Issues criminal summons, civil citations, written warnings, and verbal warnings.
• Participates in public education and community engagement activities.
• Conducts proactive patrols of thoroughfares, grounds, buildings,and facilities for the purpose of asset protection and crime prevention.
• Attends required department training and complies with the AZPOST certification retention requirements.
• Testifies in court, participates in attorney interviews/depositions,and responds to subpoenas.
• Attends organizational meetings and unit briefings.
• Communicates with department members and the public verbally, in writing, and via electronic means.
• If properly qualified, trains other department members and evaluates their performance.
• Participates in department programs and/or aides in their administration.
• Participates in public safety campaigns and presentations.
• Assists stranded motorists and lost individuals.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Important Note:

• UAPD officers may be assigned to any shift or assignment based on the department's needs or management discretion. The department operates on a 24/7/365 basis, and UAPD officers are subject to shift work.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Swift and reasonable decision-making based on objective observations and inferences.
• Ability to manage dynamic situations assertively, tactfully, and impartially.
• Accuracy, completeness, and speed of documenting pertinent information.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

Applicants should be mindful that AZPOST establishes the minimum standards. These requirements include:

• United States citizen.
• At least 21 years old upon graduation from the police academy.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid driver's license. (Out of state applicants shall obtain an Arizona driver's license at time of hire.)
• If prior military, must have been honorably discharged.
• No felony convictions.
• Must meet Arizona Peace Officers Standards & Training drug standards. (For more information, please click here.)
• You can also review AZPOST Rules R13-4-105, 106, 107 and 109.

Candidate Qualifications and Testing:
Candidates participate in a physical agility assessment consisting of elements of the POPAT (Police Officer Physical Aptitude Test). The testing consists of a 500-yard run, 99-yard obstacle course, 165 lb. body drag (32 feet}, climb over a 6-foot solid wall, and climb over a 6-foot chain link fence.
The hiring process may take several months to complete after the candidate's initial application and background questionnaire has been reviewed and accepted. Candidates will be required to successfully complete the following selection process evolutions:

• POPAT
• Written Test
• Oral Board
• Background Check
• Polygraph Examination
• Psychological Examination
• Physical Examination
• Drug Screening

Rate of Pay: $22.77 - $28.46
Compensation Type: hourly rate

Job Category: Protection and Safety
Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits
Number of Vacancies: 2

Contact Information for Candidates
Lisa Lujano
llujano@ariona.edu

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume

Special Instructions to Applicant
After receiving your application, we will email you instructions on how to access and complete the background questionnaire. Applicants who submit an application, meet the minimum qualifications, and complete the Preliminary Applicant Questionnaire (PHQ) will be considered for further evaluation. Those recommended to proceed will receive an email invitation to participate in the physical agility and written tests.