What are the responsibilities and job description for the Police Officer position at Port of Brownsville?
Job Summary
The Police Officer position performs routine and skilled law enforcement and security duties to ensure the protection of life and property within the jurisdiction of the Brownsville Navigation District. This position enforces laws, assists security personnel, responds to emergencies, and coordinates with various law enforcement agencies. The role requires operating a district vehicle and other specialized equipment as needed. The position operates on a 24-hour schedule, with rotating day and night shifts, including weekends and holidays and is subject to call-outs and working extra hours.
Job Responsibilities
The following statements describe the general nature and level of work performed in this role. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.
- Enforces all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including but not limited to the Texas Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Port Ordinances/Tariffs.
- Conducts routine and targeted patrols of District property by vehicle, boat, or foot to prevent and detect criminal activity.
- Responds promptly to crimes in progress, dispatched calls, and emergencies; detains, arrests, and processes individuals as required.
- Investigates crimes and incidents, gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, prepares reports, and testifies in court when necessary.
- Provides assistance and guidance to Port security personnel on access control and security operations.
- Coordinates and collaborates with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies as needed.
- Conducts security inspections, including vehicle and vessel searches, sometimes in conjunction with federal authorities.
- Ensures safe and responsible operation of department vehicles, equipment, and firearms.
- Engages in community-oriented policing to foster positive relationships with the public, tenants, vendors, and employees.
- Maintains a high level of professionalism, ethical standards, and adherence to department policies both on and off duty.
- Functions as an essential employee in pre- and post-disaster preparedness and response efforts.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
- Current and valid Texas Class C driver’s license at the time of appointment and maintained thereafter.
- Certification as a Texas Peace Officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
- Working knowledge of the Texas Penal Code and Code of Criminal Procedure.
- Proficiency in English (oral and written); computer literacy and ability to prepare clear, concise reports.
- Strong interpersonal skills, reliability, sound judgment, and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Proficient use of firearms
- Demonstrated integrity and ethical conduct must have an exemplary driving record.
- If previously employed in law enforcement, must have separated under honorable conditions.
Additional Requirements
- Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including the submission of: Personal History Statement, TCOLE training records, High school diploma and/or college transcripts, DD214 (if applicable)
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, medical and psychological examination as required by TCOLE.
- Must meet federal Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) eligibility requirements for unescorted access to Port facilities per 33CFR101.514
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual (English / Spanish).
- Associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Knowledge of TCOLE rules and regulations
- Prior experience as a full-time police officer or comparable law enforcement experience
Work Conditions & Physical Demands
- Frequent exposure to outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures, dust, and vehicle exhaust.
- Requires extended periods of standing (up to 3 continuous hours), walking, and occasional lifting of objects up to 25 lbs.
- Must be able to remain alert and responsive during long shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Regular interaction with the public, employees, and law enforcement personnel in potentially stressful situations.
- Work involves rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Emergency situations may require extended or flexible work hours, including overtime or double shifts.
This job description outlines the general duties and qualifications required for the position of Police Officer. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list and may be subject to modification as necessary to meet the needs of the district.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $21.67 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Evening shift
- Holidays
- Morning shift
- Night shift
- On call
- Overnight shift
- Overtime
- Rotating shift
- Weekends as needed
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
- Ability to get a TWIC Card (Required)
- Texas Peace Officer Certification/License issued by TCOLE (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $22