Police Officer

The Pennsylvania State University; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 65,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking dedicated Act 120 Certified Police Officers to join their dynamic team. This role involves protecting a diverse community of over 100,000 individuals across multiple campuses, ensuring safety through proactive law enforcement and community engagement. Candidates will uphold the highest standards of integrity and respect while collaborating with various stakeholders. The position offers a competitive starting salary with opportunities for growth and development, making it an exciting opportunity for those committed to public safety and community service.

Qualifications

• Must hold or be able to obtain Pennsylvania MPOETC Act 120 Certification.
• Skills to foster public respect through courteous and ethical service.

Responsibilities

• Protect life and property, maintain community order, and enforce laws.
• Conduct investigations and engage in community initiatives.

Skills

Customer Service Skills

Communication Skills

Analytical Skills

Judgment Skills

Organizational Skills

Ability to Work with Diverse Cultures

Respect for Constitutional Rights

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Tools

Information Technology Knowledge

Surveillance Knowledge

Social Media Knowledge

Digital Communications Knowledge

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or students) should log in to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State students (not previously employed by the university) seeking employment should log in to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Applicants who are not current employees or students should click "Apply" and complete the external application process.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS:

The Penn State University Police and Public Safety Department protects over 100,000 students, employees, and visitors across 22 campuses in Pennsylvania. We seek Act 120 Certified (*) Police Officers who embody values of integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community.

Our department aligns with Penn State's values and is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environment, providing professional and community-oriented service. All employees are expected to uphold and model Penn State's and the Department’s commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Interested candidates must apply to this posting to be considered for future openings at any Penn State campus. Candidates will have the opportunity to specify their preferred campus locations.

Police officers are tasked with protecting life and property, maintaining community order, engaging in positive community initiatives, enforcing laws and university policies, conducting investigations, and other duties. They aim to prevent illegal and unsafe activities through patrol, education, inspection, and enforcement, including apprehension and prosecution of violators.

Successful candidates will possess:

• Skills to foster public respect through courteous and ethical service
• Ability to collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external agencies
• Capability to provide credible testimony in court
• Excellent customer service, communication, analytical, judgment, ethical, and organizational skills
• Ability to work effectively with diverse cultures and backgrounds
• Respect for constitutional rights and adherence to laws and policies

The minimum requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and up to one year of relevant experience. Candidates must hold or be able to obtain Pennsylvania MPOETC Act 120 Certification during the hiring process (current certification, enrollment in a police academy, or eligibility to obtain certification).

Knowledge of information technology, surveillance, social media, and digital communications is highly desirable.

This position requires:

• Successful background investigation
• BPAD scenario-based evaluation
• U.S. Citizenship
• At least 21 years of age before start date
• Fingerprint background check
• Completion of MPOETC requirements if not currently certified
• State police criminal background check, child abuse clearance, FBI fingerprint check
• Valid driver’s license and motor vehicle records check
• Credit history check

Please include a cover letter and resume with your application.

The starting salary is $65,395.20 annually, with increases based on service and contract renewal through June 30, 2028.

Learn more about us:

Campus Information

The university is dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability, fostering a culture that values individual uniqueness and supports initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

In accordance with federal and state laws, Penn State publishes an Annual Security and Fire Safety Report, available here.

Employment is contingent upon successful background checks in accordance with university policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer committed to nondiscrimination. For assistance with the application process due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.

Additional information: Labor Law Posters, Affirmative Action, Penn State Policies, Copyright Information.