Lateral Police Officer

Metra; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 53,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Metra is seeking a sworn Police Officer to safeguard the Metra rail system across six Illinois counties. The role reports to the Chief of Police and involves proactive policing, investigations, testimony, and emergency response.

Candidates must be current Illinois certified Officers with a PTIB number and meet all listed qualifications. The position requires on-call availability, physical fitness, and the ability to operate in a high-traffic, public environment.

Qualifications

• Applicants must be Illinois certified Officers and provide their PTIB number.
• Must possess a High School diploma or its equivalent.
• Must be 21 years of age at time of appointment.
• Illinois residents must have a valid Firearms Owners Identification card before the time of hire.
• Must submit to and successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation including fingerprints.
• Must be able to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
• Must be available on-call 24-hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year.

Responsibilities

• Safeguard the Metra rail system and ensure public safety.
• Perform proactive policing, enforce laws, and apprehend offenders.
• Conduct preliminary investigations, testify in court as needed, and document findings.
• Provide first aid, respond to emergencies, and coordinate with partner agencies.

Skills

Physical and mental strength

Strong communication skills

Analytical thinking

Regional travel willingness

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Job description

Salary Range

$38.68 - $55.48

Description

Applicants must be current Illinois certified Officers and provide their PTIB number

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient service.

The Police Department ensures the preservation of peace and public safety throughout Metra's 6-county region. Safeguard the lives of Metra commuters, it's employees and those that use the Metra Rail System. Provide support and assistance during an emergency or crisis situation. In partnership with Department of Homeland Security, as well as our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, develop a safe environment. Through cooperative, proactive law enforcement and a highly visible police presence, the Metra Police Department will ensure the safety of all persons and property associated with the Metra Rail System.

Reporting to the Chief of Police, Metra Police Officers are sworn officers responsible for safeguarding the Metra rail system; specializing in the maintenance of order and balance throughout the transportation system; providing testimony and support for court proceedings; rendering first-aid; and taking appropriate action in the interest of public safety.Performing proactive policing, enforcing laws and ordinances, and apprehending criminals; protecting life and property, and preserving peace and order in public gatherings such as rallies, protests, and meetings on Metra properties.Performing preliminary criminal and fatality investigations, and patrolling rail yards, stations and other locations driving police vehicles, riding trains or bicycles, or walking.Locating victims/witnesses, documents and information, conducting interviews, and recording statements.Identifying, collecting, and preserving physical evidence, preparing reports, and testifying in court as an expert witness. Performing lifesaving procedures. Performing other related duties as required or assigned.

Incumbents work under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow.

This position is subject to random drug and/or alcohol testing.

This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)

Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.

Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Requirements

1. Applicants must be current Illinois certified Officers and provide their PTIB number
2. Must possess a High School diploma or its equivalent.
3. Must be 21 years of age at time of appointment as a sworn officer.
4. Illinois residents must have a valid Firearms Owners Identification card before the time of hire.
5. Must submit to and successfully pass a comprehensive personal and professional background investigation including fingerprints.
6. Physical and mental strength to carry out the daily activities of the position.
7. Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to exude confidence and a calm demeanor.
8. Must be able to analyze problems, evaluate alternatives, and develop appropriate and effective solutions and alternatives.
9. Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality, as well as exhibit good judgment and reason.
10. Qualified candidates are hired as Metra recruits and are required to attend and successfully complete an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705.
11. The Basic Law Enforcement Training course is waived for individuals currently certified as a Police Officer in the State of Illinois or who have successfully completed an approved Basic Law Enforcement Training course as outlined in the Illinois Police Training Act, 50/ILCS, 705 or who are able to obtain a waiver from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board for out of state training prior to employment.
12. Must be a United States citizen.
13. Must possess a valid driver's license.
14. Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time.
15. Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
16. Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
17. Ability to climb aboard train locomotives, rail cars and related railroad equipment, as well as climb over obstacles while wearing uniformed police equipment.
18. Must be willing to travel within Metra's 6-county region.
19. Must be available on-call 24-hours/day, 7 days/week, 365 days/year, including weekends and holidays.

Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.

Some positions require an Enhanced Background Check due to the nature of the role. This may include additional criminal history, employment and education verification, credential validation, and other legally permissible checks. All screenings are conducted in compliance with applicable laws and require candidate authorization.

Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants andemployees' use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.

Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to [e-mail].

Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.