Southbridge - Certified Police Officer

Job Announcement:

The Southbridge Police Department is a very progressive police department that maintains a balance of effectively patrolling a small town with an urban policing environment. Candidates can expect to respond to a variety of service calls throughout their tour of duty. Patrol Officers will work closely with other officers assigned to specialty units in order to maintain public order and investigate crimes. Candidates should also expect to work closely with members of the community and its citizens as the department strongly engages in community policing.

Due to the new Civil Service Hybrid Pathways alternatives hiring process we are now able to hire Officers from NON-Civil Service Police Departments. Upon hire they will be granted civil service status. Southbridge residents and Officers from out of state are encouraged to apply. Credit for service time will be considered in salary and benefits. Current out of state police officers are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be between the ages of 21-32 at the time of hire.  

The Southbridge Police Department has been or are in the process of acquiring some newest equipment available to keep officer safe, such as, tasers, firearms, cruisers; along with web/app-based scheduling software and payroll tracking, and ample opportunity for training and advancement. The Southbridge Police Association, MassCop Local 153 is currently in contract negotiations as the current contract expires June 30, 2025.   

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must be:

• Massachusetts Certified Police Officer
• Between the ages of 21-32 at the time of hire (unless applicant is currently employed by a Massachusetts Civil Service Department)
• A U.S Citizen
• At least 21 years of age
• Have a valid Driver’s License
• Possess or be able to obtain a Massachusetts License to Carry a Firearm.
• Applicants must be able to work effectively with people from diverse, cultural, economic, and ethnic backgrounds, and must exhibit a strong belief in Community Policing.
• Candidates with MPTC Full Time Police Academy and/or previous law enforcement experience will be given preference. Experienced MPTC/POST certified Police Officers are encouraged to apply for lateral transfer, and a lateral candidate’s current step will be considered in deciding starting pay.Current out of state police officers are encouraged to apply
• Potential candidates must pass physical, psychological and drug tests, along with an extensive background check. In addition, the candidate must be able to complete the current POST Commission pre-employment requirements and stay in good standing with POST. The position offers competitive salary and many fringe benefits.

Job Description/General Duties

• Public Safety: Patrol designated areas, respond to calls, and ensure the safety of residents and property
• Law Enforcement: Enforce laws, conduct traffic stops, and issue citations as necessary
• Crime Prevention: Investigate incidents, identify suspects, and preserve evidence
• Legal Preparedness: Write reports, maintain records, and testify in court when required
• Community Engagement: Foster positive relationships with the public and collaborate with community organizations
• Crime Investigation & Compliance: Investigate crimes, follow department policies, procedures, and rules and regulations, and make arrests in accordance with department policy
• Traffic Collision Investigation: Investigate traffic collisions, determine causes, and document findings as required

Benefits

• Officers hired in fiscal year 2025/2026 can expect a competitive salary with ample overtime and private detail opportunities. Contract negotiations are in process and will likely result in a salary increase for FY 25/26. Starting step is based on training and experience.
• educational incentive, special assignment pay, etc.. This does not take into account shift differential, private duty weekend and emergency rates.
• Education incentive (10%,20%, 25%)
• Generous Longevity Pay
• Vacation
• Holiday pay
• Paid sick leave/Personal time
• Health insurance (70/30)
• Ample overtime and private detail opportunities

Hiring Process:

• Oral interview
• Background investigation
• Medical examination
• Psychological examination
• Drug testing
• Civil Service physical abilities testing
• Appointment by the Town Council

The Town of Southbridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Please direct questions regarding this position to jdingui@southbridgemass.org