Patrol Officer

About the Role

University Patrol Officers are the backbone of safety and security at Commonwealth University, dedicated to providing a secure living and learning environment for the entire campus community. Operating 365 days a year, this role goes beyond traditional law enforcement; it emphasizes community-oriented policing with a strong focus on student success, retention, and the social importance of 21st-century ethical police functions. Officers engage in tactful and courteous interactions with students and staff, ensuring that safety measures are integrated with a supportive campus culture.

As an "essential personnel" position, Patrol Officers are expected to remain on duty or report to work during partial or full day closings and emergent circumstances. The role involves a dynamic day-to-day rhythm, ranging from routine building checks and traffic control to immediate responses to critical emergencies such as active assailants, fire, bomb threats, and mental health crises. Officers serve as the first line of defense and support, coordinating with local, state, and federal first responders to ensure the well-being of the university community.

Hiring Process

To be considered for this position, applications must be received by May 26, 2026. Finalists will be required to demonstrate strong communication skills and successfully complete an interview process. Please note that the completion of this search is contingent upon available funding.

Offers of employment are conditional and pending the successful completion of background clearances mandated by Act 153 of 2014 and Board of Governors Policy 2014-01-A: Protection of Minors. To qualify for a provisional appointment, applicants must successfully complete the Applicant Acknowledgement Consent Form, Provisional Hire Form, Pennsylvania State Police, and Justifacts portions of the clearance process prior to their start date. The remaining PA Child Abuse History Clearance and FBI Clearance must be completed and returned within the first 90 days of employment.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

At Commonwealth University, we recognize our responsibility to continuously support a living, learning, and working environment that values the diverse contributions of all campus community members. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is instrumental to our institutional success. We strive to cultivate a campus climate where all members can embrace DEI as we achieve success in our work responsibilities and professional lives.

We uphold this commitment by actively supporting the intellectual and personal growth of students, providing workshops and trainings to broaden the understanding of diversity within our community, and ensuring that all learning and living environments are welcoming and capable of serving all individuals. The University prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, marital or family status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability.

Compliance and Safety

The University complies with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crimes Statistics Act, as amended by the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Title IX prohibits retaliation for asserting or participating in claims of sex discrimination. The University has designated a Title IX Coordinator to coordinate compliance with Title IX and VAWA and to respond to reports of violations. For information on crime statistics, please refer to the Annual Security Report available through the University Police departments.