Police Officer - Lateral

About the Role

Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work with the highest level of integrity; controls traffic flow and enforces State and local traffic regulations; performs investigative work; participates in and provides support and assistance to special department crime prevention and enforcement programs.

General supervision is provided by a Police Sergeant. Technical or functional supervision may be provided by higher level police personnel. Assignments may require direct or indirect supervision of sworn and non-sworn personnel.

Responsibilities

• Patrol city in radio-equipped car or on foot; answer calls for the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of City, County, and State laws.
• Conduct both preliminary and follow-up investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, hold-ups, vehicle accidents, death, and other criminal incidents.
• Make arrests as necessary; interview victims, complainants, and witnesses; interrogate suspects; gather and preserve evidence; testify and present evidence in court.
• Contact and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and the investigation of offenses.
• Prepare reports of arrests made, activities performed, and unusual incidents observed.
• Stop drivers who are operating vehicles in violation of laws; warn drivers against unlawful practices; issue citations and make arrests as necessary.
• Check buildings for physical security.
• Search, fingerprint, and transport prisoners.
• Direct traffic at fires, special events, and other emergency or congested situations.
• Maintain contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserve good relationships with the general public.
• Perform community-based policing, become familiar with community residents and businesses, and collaborate in problem-solving strategies.
• Address community concerns and implement problem-solving policing programs to help reduce crime in accordance with applicable state and federal legislation.
• Administer first aid as necessary.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Must have successfully passed original probation in current employment as a California Peace Officer.
• Must possess a California Peace Officer POST Certificate (must be attached at time of submitting application).
• Must be at least 21 years of age at time of submitting application.
• High school graduate or recognized equivalent.
• Must possess, at the time of employment and continuously throughout employment, a valid California Class “C” driver’s license with satisfactory driving record.
• Must meet POST Standards for a Peace Officer: http://post.ca.gov.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Use and care of firearms.
• Standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system.
• Conflict resolution techniques.

Ability To:

• Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
• Treat everyone with respect and approach others without pre-conceived ideas or biases to achieve the best possible outcome.
• Think and act quickly in emergencies and judge situations and people accurately.
• Learn, understand, and interpret laws and regulations.
• Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports.
• Meet the physical requirements established by the Department.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Communicate effectively and resolve conflict situations with members of the community, co-workers, and superiors to achieve the best and safest outcome.
• Function as a team player and engage with both sworn and civilian personnel to create a harmonious and positive work environment.

Benefits

Hiring bonus of up to $10,000 for Police Officer Lateral candidates.

Selection Process

The selection process will consist of an Application Evaluation (Qualifying) and an Appraisal Interview (100%). A complete background investigation including polygraph exam, a psychological examination, and a medical examination including drug screening will be performed for all Police Department personnel. The successful candidate will be required to establish both work authorization and identity.