Retail Store Detective jobs in Topeka, KS

Position Overview

Assigned to the Investigations/Support Services Division, Detectives investigate criminal offenses, complete administrative investigations/reviews, and contribute to the development and execution of crime prevention strategies and community engagement initiatives within the KU Police Department. Detectives are assigned either to the Community Engagement or Investigations Section. Detectives are expected to maintain proficiency in all aspects of their position, including state and local laws, departmental policies, best practices, and procedures.

Detectives are accountable for the full completion of investigations, programs, and other work products. Work is reviewed through reports, conferences with supervisors, case clearance rate, and on the basis of results achieved. The detective may be required to work non-traditional hours and respond promptly to specialized assignments or emergencies.

In addition to a competitive salary, the University of Kansas offers comprehensive benefits, including paid vacation, sick leave, retirement plans, medical and dental coverage, and opportunities for professional advancement.

Job Description

20% - Complete reports in compliance with departmental procedures by determining their necessity and promptly initiating follow-up reports when further investigation is required. Additionally, documenting crime scenes using photographs, sketches, diagrams, and written reports is crucial, ensuring proper marking and packaging of evidence for later examination or court presentation, while maintaining current evidence record files and investigation reports for immediate recall. Maintaining knowledge of personal and property safety and applying them to the University environment. Disseminating information through programs, literature, security surveys, and personal contacts. Developing and conducting personal and property safety programs at an appropriate level for groups requesting assistance or when potential problems arise.

15% - Collaborate to develop operational procedures and oversee community relationship projects within the section. This includes organizing crime prevention lectures, service projects, and supporting law enforcement training initiatives. Perform recruiting and pre-employment screenings, scheduling, testing, and background investigations.

15% - Support procurement processes for the KU Police Department, tracking purchase orders, coordinating vehicle maintenance, and ensuring compliance with departmental and state purchasing guidelines. Research equipment, vendors, and software solutions that could be used to enhance departmental effectiveness.

15% - Prepare and distribute informational literature for the department and community, ensuring accuracy and staying informed of legal changes and departmental activities. This may include internal/external bulletins, crime alerts, and Clery reports.

10% - Manage lost and found/evidentiary property, maintain an inventory of department equipment as needed.

10% - Assist in the Patrol Unit when required, serving as an investigating officer in major cases, providing expert testimony, and aiding in the training of new officers.

5% - Conduct administrative reviews and investigations, as needed or as assigned.

5% - Act as a liaison with other University departments, community services officers, and external law enforcement agencies. Foster relationships with community resource groups and address community concerns promptly.

5% - Maintain law enforcement certification, attend mandated training sessions, and ensure proficiency in the use of equipment while upholding all legal requirements and ethical standards.

Position Requirements

• Must be a U. S. Citizen.
• Must be 21 years of age by the time of appointment.
• Must be able to obtain an unrestricted Kansas drivers license (corrected vision acceptable).
• Must be free of any diversions, convictions and expunged convictions for any crimes of felonies or their equivalent under the uniform code of military justice imposed by any state or federal government (KSA 74-5605).
• Must be free of any diversions, convictions and expunged convictions for any misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence or their equivalent under the uniform code of military justice imposed by any state or federal government (KSA 74-5605).
• Must submit to and successfully complete physical and psychological testing and a drug screen (for new hires).
• Must submit to and successfully complete a thorough background check (for new hires).
• Must be in compliance with the University of Kansas Police Department policies and procedures regarding intentional body alterations.
• Must be able to qualify annually with duty weapon.
• Must be able to perform all the essential job functions and not pose a direct threat to the health and safety of self or others.
• Must maintain excellent physical condition.
  
  
  

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalency and two years of commissioned law enforcement experience within six months of appointment date.
• Certification or eligibility for certification as a law enforcement officer by the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center.
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with in-depth criminal investigations.
• Associate’s degree or higher in administration of justice, criminal justice, or related field.
  
  
  

Additional Candidate Instructions

In addition to the online application, the following documents are required to be considered for this position:

• A cover letter addressing how required and preferred qualifications are met.
• Resume or curriculum vitae.
• Name and contact information for three professional references.
  
  
  

NOTE: Applicants who are considered for an interview will be required to submit a writing assignment as part of the interview process.

Application review begins Monday, October 14 and will remain open until the positions are filled.

Contact Information to Applicants

Sandra Patchen, spatchen@ku.edu; 785-864-5900

Advertised Salary Range

$67,600 - $81,750, commensurate with experience

Work Schedule

M-F, 8am - 5pm

Application Review Begins

Monday October 14, 2024

Anticipated Start Date

Monday October 28, 2024