The City of Decatur is seeking a knowledgeable and service-minded Police Support Officer to provide vital operational and administrative support to the Police Department. This civilian, non-sworn role is perfect for those with prior law enforcement or investigative experience who want to remain engaged in public safety without serving in a sworn capacity. From handling evidence and reports to responding to non-emergency calls and assisting with training and recruitment, you’ll play a key behind-the-scenes role that keeps the department running smoothly.

We support our employees with a strong package that includes:

• Competitive Benefits: 14.5 paid holidays (including 2 personal days), vacation and sick leave, health insurance, and an excellent pension plan.
• Relocation Assistance: Moving support available for qualified candidates.
• Dedicated Health Center: Free employee and dependent care services including checkups, labs, chronic condition management, and many prescriptions.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Support for continuing education and career development.

Operational & Field Support

• Respond to non-priority calls such as delayed theft reports, found property, or road hazards.
• Assist with traffic control at accidents, parades, and public events.
• Enforce towing for abandoned vehicles; serve ordinance violation notices.
• Perform duties requiring experience of a sworn Illinois Peace Officer.

• Collect, process, store, and secure evidence.
• Complete reports for tele-serve and walk-in calls.
• Navigate systems to gather report-related data.
• Testify in court as needed.

• Track vehicle equipment and maintenance; coordinate with the City Garage.
• Register sex offenders, log subpoenas, and manage incoming calls.
• Handle interdepartmental mail and ordinance paperwork.

• Assist with recruitment, training, and onboarding efforts.
• Support departmental projects as assigned.

Minimum Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; criminal justice college coursework preferred.
• Minimum of two years’ experience in law enforcement, investigations, or related field with knowledge of Illinois criminal law.

• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License and FOID card (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Successful completion of background check and fingerprinting; no felony convictions or gang/drug affiliations.
• Annual criminal history checks required.
• Must obtain and maintain less-than-full access Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS) certification.

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Able to write and type basic police reports.
• Knowledge of Illinois criminal and traffic laws and local ordinances.
• Skilled in using databases to collect and report information.

• Clear, professional verbal and written communication.
• Ability to engage respectfully with the public and maintain confidentiality.
• Strong problem-solving skills and sound judgment.
• Effective multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Able to conduct interviews and elicit relevant information.

Residency Requirement
Employees must reside within 50 miles of Decatur's corporate limits within 12 months of appointment

Why Decatur?
Located in the heart of Central Illinois, Decatur offers the perfect balance of professional opportunity and quality of life:

• Affordable, accessible living within easy reach to Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis.
• Land of Lincoln: Explore Abe's legacy with visits to the nearby Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln’s Tomb, and the family’s first Illinois home.
• Shopping and Dining: Browse locally-owned boutiques and specialty shops and savor diverse delights at unique restaurants and quaint eateries.
• Entertainment Abounds: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performing arts at Millikin University, and shows in the historic Lincoln Theatre downtown.
• Outdoor Recreation: Explore over 2,000 acres of parkland, enjoy Lake Decatur, or play a round of golf or disc golf
• Arts & Family Life: Enjoy murals, sculptures, and attractions like Splash Cove, the Children’s Museum, Scovill Zoo, and Overlook Adventure Park.