Police departments need records clerks to keep the station organized.
A police records clerk is a police officer who works at the station and handles administrative duties that allow the station to run effectively and in an organized fashion. Clerks enter in records, organize and file these records effectively and help keep the entire police station operating smoothly as a government office.
Duties
Police records clerks are in charge of writing up police records, reports and other materials. They must also make copies of all these reports and materials and distribute them to the proper personnel or agencies as requested or required. Data also need to entered and updated in the local or national law enforcement database so these systems can maintain a high level of reliability. More and more of this data entry is done on computers to save time and money.
Educational Requirements
Police records clerks need to understand the basic process and workings of an office so they can efficiently keep and store records. Knowledge and proficiency using a computer definitely helps. Four years of high school or the equivalent is necessary to apply for the job.
Other Requirements
A valid driver's license needs to be presented at the time of being hired. There will be a background check that includes a polygraph and a psychological evaluation. A typing certificate is also needed, showing a speed of at least 35 words per minute, since typing records and police reports quickly and accurately is a must. These requirements may vary depending on the state and police department.
People Skills
Police records clerks must also have the ability to deal with a variety of people within the police department, as well as the public, on a regular basis. The records clerk can be the public face of the police department. This requires good interpersonal skills.
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