Law Enforcement Officer (Certified)

Police Officer (Certified)Agency: Lake Hamilton Police DepartmentLocation: Lake HamiltonState: FloridaPosition Type: SwornJob Type: Full-TimeCertification Status: CertifiedSalary Range: $55,779 - $83,669 annuallyStarting Pay: $25.54 per hour (experience pay applicable)Out-of-State Certified OfficersIf you currently possess one year or more of full-time sworn law enforcement experience within the past eight years, you may qualify to skip the 770-hour Florida police academy through the Florida Equivalency of Training (EOT) program. Qualified officers can complete the EOT process and take the Florida State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE) instead of repeating the full academy.Click here to learn more about the EOT process through GovSource.About the Lake Hamilton Police DepartmentThe Lake Hamilton Police Department is a professional law enforcement agency serving a close-knit community of approximately 2,900 residents in Polk County, Florida.The department consists of 16 full-time sworn officers dedicated to maintaining public safety, protecting property, and building strong relationships with the community. Officers at Lake Hamilton benefit from working in a small, proactive department where they gain broad experience across all aspects of policing, including patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, and community engagement. Lake Hamilton officers work closely with neighboring agencies and are trusted to operate with a high level of professional judgment, independence, and community responsibility. Officers gain experience in patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, and community policing while working closely with neighboring agencies throughout Polk County.Job SummaryThe Lake Hamilton Police Department is seeking motivated and service-oriented individuals for the sworn position of Police Officer. They are responsible for protecting life and property, enforcing laws and ordinances, responding to calls for service, investigating crimes, and maintaining order within the community. Officers must be able to exercise sound judgment, act independently in emergency situations, and maintain strong relationships with community members.Primary ResponsibilitiesLaw Enforcement & Community PolicingPatrol assigned areas by vehicle or on footRespond to calls for police serviceEnforce federal, state, and local lawsConduct proactive patrol and crime prevention activitiesMaintain strong relationships with residents and local businessesCrime Prevention & InvestigationInvestigate criminal offenses and suspicious activityInterview victims, witnesses, and suspectsSecure and process crime scenesCollect evidence and prepare case documentationCoordinate with detectives and prosecutors as necessaryTraffic Enforcement & Crash ResponseEnforce traffic laws and investigate violationsRespond to and investigate traffic crashesDirect traffic and manage roadway safety situationsCommunity EngagementParticipate in community events and outreach initiativesMaintain a visible and positive presence within the communityAdministrative & Reporting DutiesComplete reports, citations, and investigative documentationPrepare affidavits and testify in court when requiredMaintain confidentiality and integrity in all investigationsSpecialized AssignmentsAt the discretion of the Chief of Police, officers may be assigned additional responsibilities such as:Field Training Officer (FTO)ArmorerEvidence CustodianExtra-Duty CoordinatorGrant WriterPublic Information Officer (PIO)Training CoordinatorTerminal Agency Coordinator (TAC)Personnel Selection Coordinator Minimum QualificationsEducationHigh School Diploma or GEDAge RequirementMust be at least 19 years of ageCertificationMust possess Florida Law Enforcement Officer Certification orBe eligible for certification through an approved Florida law enforcement training programOther RequirementsApplicants must:Be a United States citizen or naturalized citizenPossess a valid Florida driver's licenseHave no felony convictionsSuccessfully complete a background investigationPass a polygraph examinationPass a psychological evaluationPass a medical examination and drug screeningDemonstrate honesty, integrity, and sound judgment Applicants with prior military service must have received an honorable discharge. Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesSuccessful candidates should demonstrate:Knowledge of modern law enforcement principles and practicesProficiency in the use of police equipmentAbility to observe situations analytically and objectivelyAbility to prepare clear and accurate reportsAbility to react calmly and effectively in emergency situationsAbility to establish and maintain professional relationships with coworkers and the publicWork EnvironmentPolice Officers perform duties in a variety of environments including:Patrol vehiclesResidential and commercial locationsRoadways and public areasIndoor and outdoor environments Officers may be exposed to hazardous conditions, extreme weather, stressful situations, and potential danger while performing law enforcement duties. Shift work may include nights, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs.BenefitsThe Town of Lake Hamilton offers a competitive benefits package including:401(k) Retirement Plan401(k) Matching457(b) Retirement PlanHealth InsuranceDental InsuranceVision InsuranceLife InsurancePaid Time OffFlexible Spending AccountsHealth Savings Account (HSA)Employee Assistance ProgramTuition ReimbursementProfessional Development AssistanceEqual Opportunity EmployerThe Town of Lake Hamilton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.