Plainfield Police Department - Lateral Police Officer

SALARY Starting salary is based on years of experience at Step 2, Step 3, or Step 4. Current rates (effective 04/30/25) are: - Step 2: $89,713 - Step 3: $94,154 - Step 4: $98,812 Salaries increase annually through 2028, with Step 8 reaching $137,428 by 04/30/28. ABOUT THE ROLE The Village of Plainfield is seeking Lateral Police Officers to join a growing, vibrant community located 35 miles southwest of Chicago. The Plainfield Police Department operates under three divisions: Patrol, Administration, and Support Services. With 66 sworn officers, the department offers numerous opportunities for growth and specialization, including Detectives, Traffic Officers, School Resource Officers, SWAT, DARE, Field Training Officer, Drone Operator, K-9 Officer, Bike Officer, Social Media Team, Community Engagement Unit, and Narcotics Unit. The mission is to protect, promote safety, and enhance quality of life in partnership with the community. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Patrol assigned area on foot, by bicycle, or in patrol car to enforce laws and prevent crime - Answer radio-dispatched or citizen requests for police services at scenes of accidents, domestic disputes, and disturbances - Investigate illegal or suspicious activities, persons, and establishments - Mediate and quell disturbances - Locate, search, detain, and arrest law violators following recognized procedures - Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects - Gather and preserve evidence - Perform first aid and provide assistance to accident victims - Investigate causes and results of accidents - Direct and control traffic - Issue written citations for traffic and minor violations - Inspect public establishments requiring licenses for compliance - Operate police communication and computer equipment - Attend community meetings to discuss crime prevention - Write detailed incident, investigation, and activity reports - Testify in court to present evidence MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident - Valid Driver’s License required at time of application - Ability to read, speak, and write English - Basic Law Enforcement Academy Certification - Minimum of 2 years of prior service as a police officer - High School Diploma - College Transcripts/Diploma (if applicable) - Proof of Citizenship or legal eligibility to work in the US - DD214 (if applicable for veterans) - Certifications/licenses SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - No face, neck, or hand tattoos allowed - Must sign consent and release of information form - PST Personal History Statement required within 7 days of passing required exam(s) - Veterans preference points awarded for qualified military service SELECTION PROCESS - Written Examination: Not required - LEO/CO Physical Ability Test (PAT): Not required initially (may be required later) - Background Investigation: Includes review of driving record, drug usage, criminal activity, and employment history - Automatic Disqualifiers include: Invalid driver's license, illegal use of controlled substances while in criminal justice capacity, any adult felony conviction, unlawful sexual misconduct, lying during hiring process, previous revocation/denial of certified status, falsifying application materials - Potential Disqualifiers reviewed case-by-case include: Illegal sale of drugs, adult misdemeanor convictions, juvenile felony convictions, domestic violence convictions HOW TO APPLY Submit required documents including High School Diploma, College Transcripts/Diploma, Drivers License, Proof of Citizenship, DD214 (if applicable), Certifications/licenses, and signed consent form. Complete the PST Personal History Statement within 7 days of passing required exams. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Plainfield, IL (Will/Kendall County) - Job Type: Full Time - Department: Plainfield Police Department - Staff Size: 90 (Sworn and Civilian), 66 Sworn Officers - Benefits: Choice of HMO or PPO Medical Plan, Dental Insurance (no cost), Vision Insurance (no cost), Life Insurance equal to one year salary (no cost), Police Pension Program (Article 3: Downstate Pension Plan) - Optional Benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts, AFLAC Plans, 457 Savings Plans - Additional Perks: Vacation accrual (up to 200 hours annually), Compensatory Time Off (up to 180 hours annually), 24-40 hours Personal Time annually, Sick Time (96 hours accrued annually), 10 Paid Holidays annually, Tuition Reimbursement, Wellness Program Incentives, Union Representation (MAP Chapter 93), Uniforms and equipment provided