Police Officer

Police Officer I – 241043, 003065

Department: Office of University Police

Campus: Cullowhee, NC

Company: Western Carolina University

• 2025 – Ranked 1st in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes ‘America’s Best Employers by State’ list.
• 2024 – Ranking in the top 8.5% on Forbes ‘America’s Best Midsize Employers’ list; WCU ranked 34 of the top 400 employers across all industries.
• 2023 – Ranked in the top 20% on Forbes ‘America’s Best Midsize Employers’ list; WCU ranked 97 of the top 500 employers across all industries.
• 2022 – Ranked 14th in the top 100 employers in North Carolina in Forbes ‘America’s Best Employers by State’ list.

Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes dental, vision, health insurance, retirement contributions, tuition waivers, wellness programs, paid holidays, community service leave, and paid parental leave.

The primary location of this position is the Cullowhee, NC campus. Serves as a member of a community policing team employing problem‑solving strategies. Performs patrol duties, responds to calls, investigates violations, prepares reports, enforces parking and traffic rules, engages in crowd and traffic control, inspects buildings for safety, coordinates with higher authority on special concerns, enters reports into a computer, performs computer work, and other related duties.

• Knowledge of North Carolina Criminal and Motor Vehicle Laws and their applications; federal laws including FERPA and the Clery Act; general court and criminal justice processes; police training practices; and community policing philosophies.

• Knowledge of department orders, supervisory principles, and CALEA standards.

• Skill in working with a diverse population, operating in a regimented environment, using computer applications, communicating effectively orally and in writing, speaking on radio, operating a motor vehicle, using force, lifting heavy objects, and other strenuous activities.

• Other skills and abilities relevant to law enforcement practice.

• Legally eligible to work in the United States without employer immigration sponsorship.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Probationary certification from the NC CJETSC as a commissioned police officer and successful completion of the appointing agency’s designated field training program for new campus police officers.
• Optionally, out‑of‑state hires with prior sworn experience may be placed in relevant steps, conditional on completing required training and certification.

Permanent full‑time.

Submit materials online at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Include a cover letter, current resume, and a list of three professional references with full contact info.

Reviews begin immediately and continue until a candidate is selected.

Contact Brian Thomas  for questions.

Western Carolina University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, political affiliation, National Guard or veteran status, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations, and policies.

Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations may contact  or email jobs.edu.

Annual Safety Report is available online or by request at the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs or the Office of University Police. Phone: 828‑227‑7147 / 828‑227‑7301.