Police Officer

Under the supervision of a sergeant or higher-ranking officer, patrols are assigned to areas of Harvard University to protect life and property and maintain a secure campus environment by assuring compliance with laws, rules, and regulations. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Patrols campus buildings and adjacent areas on foot, on bicycle, and/or in cruisers. 

• Investigates crimes or other incidents. 

• When required, retains or arrests suspects and assists courts and district attorneys in prosecuting cases.

• Guards against trespass, theft, damage to property, or injury to individuals by diligent observation during patrol. 

• Controls crowds.

• Provides personal protection when required. 

• Investigate complaints and suspicious activity.

• Mediates disputes.

• Inspects grounds, buildings, and fire lanes for compliance with safety standards.

• Exercises police powers by making arrests, searching prisoners, restraining violent persons, and transporting persons under arrest or restraints. 

• preserves crime scenes and fire sites. 

• Administers first aid.

• Must work with University community members and develop relationships and partnerships to accomplish team and organizational goals.

• Applies problem-solving skills to address issues in the community.

• Prepares thorough and accurate incident reports, investigative reports, and follow-ups when warranted.

• Overtime work, on occasion, shall be required.

• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:

• Stand and walk for long periods and must be able to walk up 10 flights of stairs.

• Move individuals or heavy objects. 

• Have physical fitness abilities to conduct arrests effectively, drive police motor vehicles safely, use weapons, and subdue suspects and prisoners.  

• Enter and exit vehicles quickly while wearing approximately 15 to 20 pounds of equipment. 

• Use night vision and peripheral vision. 

• Sit while driving for extended periods. 

• Manual dexterity is required to use handcuffs, light flares, fire weapons, perform CPR, etc.