Police Officer

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Why join Harvard University Central Administration?

Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM) is a 5,000+ employee organization that supports the university's overall excellence by understanding and serving the needs of its schools, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and surrounding communities. Through dynamic and collaborative partnerships, CADM provides high-quality and efficient services to the schools to help them achieve their goals.

Job Summary:
Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of a sergeant or higher-ranking officer, patrols are assigned to areas of Harvard University to protect life and property and maintain a secure campus environment by assuring compliance with laws, rules, and regulations. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Patrols campus buildings and adjacent areas on foot, on bicycle, and/or in cruisers. 
• Investigates crimes or other incidents. 
• When required, retains or arrests suspects and assists courts and district attorneys in prosecuting cases.
• Guards against trespass, theft, damage to property, or injury to individuals by diligent observation during patrol. 
• Controls crowds.
• Provides personal protection when required. 
• Investigate complaints and suspicious activity.
• Mediates disputes.
• Inspects grounds, buildings, and fire lanes for compliance with safety standards.
• Exercises police powers by making arrests, searching prisoners, restraining violent persons, and transporting persons under arrest or restraints. 
• preserves crime scenes and fire sites. 
• Administers first aid.
• Must work with University community members and develop relationships and partnerships to accomplish team and organizational goals.
• Applies problem-solving skills to address issues in the community.
• Prepares thorough and accurate incident reports, investigative reports, and follow-ups when warranted.
• Overtime work, on occasion, shall be required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:
Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:

• Stand and walk for long periods and must be able to walk up 10 flights of stairs.
• Move individuals or heavy objects. 
• Have physical fitness abilities to conduct arrests effectively, drive police motor vehicles safely, use weapons, and subdue suspects and prisoners.  
• Enter and exit vehicles quickly while wearing approximately 15 to 20 pounds of equipment. 
• Use night vision and peripheral vision. 
• Sit while driving for extended periods. 
• Manual dexterity is required to use handcuffs, light flares, fire weapons, perform CPR, etc.

Basic Qualifications:

• High School graduate/GED certificate required. 
• Must be a US citizen, obtain and retain a Massachusetts Class A license to carry a firearm, and successfully complete firearms qualifications per Department standards.
• Completed a Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) approved basic Police Recruit Academy.
• Active motor vehicle operator’s license
• Candidates must have ability to work any and all shifts.  HUPD is a 24/7 operation and candidates should have the ability to work nights, weekends, holidays.
• Successful completion of pre employment screening psychological test and physical agility test.
• Ability to obtain MA POST Commission Certification and SSPO Warrant of Appointment and pass a state and national background check under M.G.L. c. 6E, § 4 as a condition of employment. This background check includes a check of criminal offender record information for all prospective employees. 

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• An Associate Degree in Criminal Justice or a related field is preferred. The candidate must be able to perform duties under stressful conditions and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Criminal, RMV, Identity, Licensure, Education

Other Information:

*Please note: Harvard University Police Officers are members of the Harvard University Police Association. You can view their most up-to-date contract HERE.

If you need reasonable accommodation to search for a job or to submit an application, don't hesitate to contact us at 617-495-2772. This is a dedicated line to assist job seekers with disabilities who require assistance applying online.

Applications for the Police Officer positions will be considered until 9am on Monday, July 13, 2026, at which time the posting will close.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.