Job Description

City of Columbia, Missouri, Human Resource Department
P.O. Box 6015, Howard Building, 600 East Broadway
Columbia, Missouri 65205-6015    573.874.7235

    DEPARTMENT / DIVISION:      Police
Work is performed under the supervision of the Evidence Custodian with the incumbent planning and carrying out assigned duties and resolving problems according to established guidelines and procedures. This is responsible and varied clerical/administrative work of a difficult nature. The employee is responsible for performing complex clerical work, operating with a high degree of independence over specified, standardized activity areas and refers only highly unusual or technical problems to supervisors for decision. Work involves handling evidence according to prescribed procedure, typing letters, reports, and a variety of documents and forms, computer data entry, maintaining property system, greeting the public and carrying out various related information processes.

    SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Generally none; however, the employee in this class may provide technical guidance to other employees as a function of responsibility over specific programs or operations.

    WORK PERFORMED:
Types letters, reports, documents, and a variety of other material from rough draft, clear copy, Dictaphone, shorthand, or notes, using a typewriter or electronic equipment, including formatting, data collection, and tabulation. Prepares and sends correspondence and form letters on general matters where instructions are clear and precedence is followed. Transports evidence to and from crime labs. Facilitates completion, collection, and flow of required forms/documents such as legal documents or notices, purchase orders/requisitions, claims and billings, requests for information, or other forms indigenous to specialized operations. Maintains strict confidentiality of operations and records as directed. At the direction of the Evidence Custodian receives, logs, stores, retrieves, and disposes of property and other materials collected as evidence in police investigations, assures proper packaging of evidence; preserves the integrity of evidence. Prepares drugs and contraband for lawful destruction by court order. Dubs copies of video tape as directed. Maintains various reference files, assembles and organizes data, and prepares necessary reports. Researches clerical material and edits for inclusion into reports; recognizes variations and verifies completeness and accuracy of printed material. Schedules appointments, gives information to callers, handles or refers complaints/problems as appropriate, and generally assists in supportive clerical work; receives and distributes mail; schedules meetings; maintains schedule/calendar of subpoenas and court dates. Reviews and verifies documents, general reports, and records for accuracy and conformance to departmental rules and procedures. Compiles and types statistical reports. Interprets and applies established policies and procedures where clear and ample precedents have been established; searches documents to answer factual inquiries and to locate information. Returns property to lawful owners; prepares property for auctions. Orders supplies and equipment. Greets callers and visitors; handles and processes incoming unit calls; screens calls and takes messages; directs inquiries to the proper source and answers questions within the context of established policies and procedures, with contact sometimes of a difficult nature; may initiate routine correspondence in performance of duties and response to services. Performs related work as needed or assigned.

    PARTIAL LISTING OF MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduation from high school and at least three years of related clerical/secretarial experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience which would provide the following knowledge, skills, and abilities: Considerable knowledge of standard offices practices and procedures, equipment and clerical techniques. Some knowledge of proper evidence handling procedures and property management systems. Ability to make accurate computer data entries into property management system. Some knowledge of court procedures relating to the custody of evidence. Considerable knowledge of grammar, punctuation, spelling, syntax, appropriate style and arithmetic. Requires good balance, coordination, ability to climb ladders and lift objects above. Ability to operate a variety of office equipment, including computers, VCR, DVD and other electronic equipment. Ability to effectively handle and lift 25 - 50 lbs; use and operate dolly. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Considerable experience with spreadsheets and database applications. Ability to make mathematical calculations and computations accurately. Ability to maintain moderately complex records and ensure their confidentiality. Ability to successfully complete the City Clerical Exam and typing test prior to application deadline. Ability to proofread, research files, and logically organize information. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines. Ability to testify in court proceedings Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, attorneys and the general public. No serious criminal history (to be determined by nature of the violation). Ability to drive City vehicle to State laboratories for analysis of evidence. Excellent work history and attendance record. Must possess and maintain a valid Missouri Driver's License, and an excellent driving record.

PLEASE CONTACT HUMAN RESOURCES FOR COPY OF COMPLETE POSITION DESCRIPTION

Individuals needing accommodation to apply may call 573.874.7235
TTY Users call 573.874.6395
THE CITY OF COLUMBIA IS A MERIT, AFFIRMATIVE ACTION, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:    MALE / FEMALE

THE CITY OF COLUMBIA REQUIRES PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TESTING