Police Officer
Harvard University · Cambridge, MA, United States · Posted Jul 8, 2026
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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.
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, dis…