Police Officer - New Hire and Lateral Hires

About the position

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 160+ miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year. The District's mission is, "to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure, and recreation of its citizens. Come work for a department focusing on conservation and park-related law enforcement along with enforcing the state criminal and traffic code. Spend time outdoors protecting our patrons and natural resources on foot, bike, ATV, and watercraft. Benefits include possible take-home vehicle, no regular midnight shifts, uniforms and all related equipment provided, IMRF SLEP pension, and excellent insurance benefits. Possible specialties after completing the probationary period include bike patrol officer, evidence technician, investigator, DuPage County MERIT (metropolitan emergency response and investigative task force) member, drone pilot, field training officer, firearms, and use of force instructor. You may also apply for our leadership development program.

Responsibilities

• Patrol District properties and preserves enforcing State laws and District ordinances to help ensure the safety of preserve visitors, resources, and facilities
• Apprehend, identify, detain and arrest offenders. Write citations, criminal complaints, and search and arrest warrants
• Respond to emergencies. Serve as a first responder for life-threatening injuries and provide first aid
• Patrol District property by ATV, bike, boat, foot, and vehicle
• Complete written reports including misdemeanor and felony incidents, sick or injured persons, and vehicle or boating accidents
• Conduct criminal investigations
• Follow department policies and procedures
• Provide education and engage the public on various District related activities, regulations, and law enforcement-related topics
• Perform other duties as required

Requirements

• AA/AS in criminal justice/natural resources (or related field) and two (2) years of job-related experience (required), or BA/BS in criminal justice/natural resources or related field (preferred)
• A valid driver's license is required
• Within six (6) months of employment obtain certification by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board as a Sworn Peace Officer and CPR, AED, and basic first aid certification
• Ability to obtain a FOID card

Nice-to-haves

• Strong interest in and passion related to natural resources and outdoor recreation

Benefits

• Medical (PPO and HMO plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield)
• Dental
• Vision
• Flex Spending
• Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 12 paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation Days
• Paid personal days
• Paid sick leave
• Participation in the Sheriff's Law Enforcement Personnel Plan (SLEP) part of Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund
• Initial uniform and equipment purchases (including firearm) provided with annual uniform allowance
• Possible take home squad car
• Non-probationary officers eligible for District resident guard housing dependent on availability