Detective I

The Detective I is responsible for enforcing the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and conducting criminal investigations in a timely and competent manner, as directed by the District Attorney of Chester County. This position requires certification under Act 120, Municipal Police Officer's Education and Training Commission.

A criminal background check is required.

Essential Duties, Tasks and Accountabilities:

• Respond to the scene of major incidents to conduct investigations.
• Conduct interviews with witnesses, contacts, suspects and victims.
• Conduct interrogations of suspects.
• Recognize and collect physical evidence.
• Prepare search warrants, criminal complaints and affidavits for service.
• Execute search warrants and make arrests when necessary.
• Prepare cases for court and testify in court.
• Conduct surveillance, when directed.
• Prepare all required reports and submit them as provided by departmental directives.
• Work with other detectives and law enforcement personnel in a team environment.
• Request aid and necessary technical assistance as required in the conduct of duties.
• Advise the Superior Officer immediately of all major incidents or major developments in an investigation.
• Work with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.
• Ensure that all complaints are documented and investigated.
• Prepare news releases, when appropriate.
• Perform duties of the "on-call" detective ensuring the goals of the unit are met during hours outside the normal weekday (including responding to crime scene locations).
• Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as required.

Qualifications / Requirements:

• High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED).
• Six months to one year of job-related experience and/or training.
• Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission Certification (Acts 120 and 180).
• Working knowledge of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code and Rules of Criminal Procedure.
• Strong interpersonal skills required to conduct investigations.
• Ability to work with other detectives and law enforcement personnel in a team environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidential information and handle confidential matters.
• Must keep abreast of current developments in the field of criminal investigations.
• Ability to follow the established policies and procedures of the unit.
• Must be able to satisfy any physical and psychological requirements as outlined by the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers Education and Training Commission.
• Demonstrates integrity and honesty.
• A valid driver's license is required.

• Previous law enforcement experience.
• Previous criminal investigation experience.
• Wire tap certification (Chapter 57, Title 18).
• Advanced criminal investigation training.
• Ability to use common sense understanding to carry out written or verbal instructions.
• Strong professional ethics.
• Ability to follow established policies and procedures of the unit.
• Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.
• Ability to interface effectively with all levels of County management.
• Exhibits sound and accurate judgement.
• Ability to work independently and proceed with objectives.
• Displays willingness to make decisions.
• General knowledge and understanding of County of Chester policies and procedures.

Relevant background checks, clearances, physicals, drug tests, and any other assessments or evaluations will be conducted after an offer of employment is given per County policy.

• Basic Word skills
• Basic Access skills
• Basic OutLook skills (Email and Calendar)
• Knowledge of Windows operating system