Full-time Police Officer

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 13:27:43 -0500

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Emerald Isle, a picturesque beach town with a permanent population of 3,700 residents, and a summertime population of almost 35,000, is seeking qualified applicants for full-time Police Officer positions!

Our community is known for its award-winning beaches, welcoming atmosphere, and strong sense of community spirit. The Emerald Isle Police Department is comprised of approximately thirty sworn officers (permanent and part-time) and eight support staff. This position will fill an opening in our Beach Patrol Unit which focuses on the safety and security of residents and visitors along a twelve-mile stretch of the Crystal Coast. This role requires active community involvement, the ability to foster positive relationships with the public, and the representation of our department goals, Honor, Integrity, and Transparency.

General Statement of Duties

Performs general duty law enforcement work to protect life and property in the Town of Emerald Isle.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

An employee in this class performs a full range of general law enforcement duties. Work includes patrolling the Town during an assigned shift in a police car, bicycle, or on foot; preventing, detecting, and investigating disturbances and crime; performing traffic control work; apprehending suspects; and executing related assignments.

Employees must exercise judgment, initiative, and calm control when performing duties. Work involves frequent public contact which requires tact, firmness, and decisiveness. Work is performed in accordance with departmental policy and state and federal law and is supplemented with specific directions from superior officers.

Employees are subject to hazards associated with law enforcement work including indoor and outdoor environments, extreme weather conditions, and exposure to potentially dangerous people and hazardous materials. Work is subject to OSHA standards regarding bloodborne pathogens.

Work is performed under general supervision and is evaluated through observation, monitoring of radio traffic, discussion, and review of reports for adherence to laws, departmental procedures, and sound judgment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Patrols streets in a police vehicle or on foot to observe suspicious activity, enforce laws, and protect life and property.
• Responds to calls for service including disturbances, suspicious activity, domestic disputes, and emergency situations.
• Investigates traffic crashes and possible criminal offenses through observation, witness interviews, and evidence collection.
• Issues citations and warnings for violations of traffic laws and local ordinances.
• Serves warrants and apprehends criminal suspects.
• Prepares accurate reports and documentation related to incidents, investigations, and enforcement actions.
• Directs traffic during emergencies, accidents, and special events.
• Operates police vehicles, radios, firearms, and other law enforcement equipment.
• Provides information and assistance to citizens and visitors.
• Maintains assigned vehicles and equipment in proper working order.
• Performs other related law enforcement duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Considerable knowledge of state and federal laws, local ordinances, and departmental policies.
• Working knowledge of law enforcement principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in routine and emergency situations.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal forms.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise reports.
• Ability to present effective court testimony.
• Ability to build positive relationships with the public and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and supervisors.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform the physical activities required of law enforcement including standing, walking, kneeling, reaching, climbing, crawling, and lifting.

Must be capable of performing medium work exerting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly.

Must possess the visual acuity necessary to operate a police vehicle and observe people and situations during patrol.

Minimum Education and Experience

Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Completion of Basic Law Enforcement Training and possession of a North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Certificate, or the ability to obtain certification through the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Special Requirements

Must possess a valid North Carolina driver license.

Must meet the minimum standards established by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Education and Training Standards Commission for certified law enforcement officers.

Benefits

The Town of Emerald Isle offers a competitive benefits package which may include:

• North Carolina Local Government Retirement System
• Health insurance
• Paid vacation and sick leave
• Paid holidays
• Take Home Patrol Vehicle Program (40-mile radius from Town limits)
• Law enforcement training and professional development opportunities

The Town of Emerald Isle is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to diversity in our workplace. We encourage qualified candidates of all backgrounds to apply. For questions regarding the position, application process, or further information, please contact the HR Department at lburton@emeraldisle-nc.org or 252-354-8544. POSITION OPEN UNTIL FILLED.

Join us in Emerald Isle, where the sun, sand, and safety meet!

Emerald Isle, NC - Jobs - Full Time Positions

Full-time Police Officer

Join our team!