POLICE OFFICER

Police Officer

This position is located at the Arkansas State Hospital in Little Rock, AR. The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.

Job Series : Law Enforcement Career Path

Classification : Police Officer

Class Code : SLE02P

Pay Grade : LES01

Salary Range : $46,223- $68,410

Job Summary

The Police Officer is responsible for enforcing state laws and regulations, ensuring public safety, and maintaining order within the assigned jurisdiction. This role involves patrolling designated areas, responding to emergency situations, conducting investigations, and engaging with the community to promote trust and cooperation.

Primary Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas to deter criminal activity and ensure public safety.
• Respond promptly to emergency calls, accidents, disturbances, and crime scenes to assess situations and take appropriate action.
• Conduct preliminary and follow-up investigations of crimes, accidents, and suspicious activities.
• Apprehend, arrest, and detain suspects while following proper use-of-force policies and legal procedures.
• Enforce state laws, traffic regulations, and local ordinances, issuing citations when necessary.
• Provide assistance to victims of crime, stranded motorists, and individuals in distress.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with community members, businesses, and local organizations.
• Mediate disputes and de-escalate conflicts using verbal communication and conflict-resolution techniques.
• Gather evidence, interview witnesses and victims, and document observations in detailed incident reports.
• Testify in court proceedings as needed, providing accurate and credible statements.
• Process crime scenes, including securing areas, collecting physical evidence, and preserving the chain of custody.
• Maintain accurate records of arrests, citations, and other law enforcement activities.
• Provide first aid and CPR to injured individuals at accident or crime scenes.
• Assist in natural disaster response, evacuations, and emergency management operations.
• Work alongside firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency personnel in crisis situations.
• Utilize de-escalation techniques, negotiation skills, and defensive tactics to resolve high-risk situations safely.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong understanding of Arkansas state laws, criminal justice procedures, and law enforcement best practices. Proficiency in operating law enforcement vehicles, radios, and firearms in compliance with training standards. Ability to collect, analyze, and document evidence accurately and ethically. Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the public and completing reports. Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations and individuals in crisis. Strong active listening and negotiation skills for conflict resolution. Ability to assess rapidly changing situations and make sound decisions under pressure. Strong critical thinking and investigative skills to solve crimes and enforce laws effectively. Skilled in de-escalation techniques and conflict mediation. Ability to work in high-stress environments and maintain composure during emergencies.

Minimum Qualifications

See certification requirement.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee's demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure / Certifications

Must be Certified Law Enforcement Officer in the State of Arkansas. OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND / OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.