Police Officer (Lateral and Post Academy Graduates)

The Police Officer position requires an education equivalent to completion of high school, preferably supplemented by college-level law enforcement related coursework.

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License
• Normal hearing and vision (vision uncorrected 20/70)
• Must be free any of any felony convictions
• Must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (Government Code Para. 1031).
• Must meet all Department medical, physical, and psychological standards.
• Must have good moral character, emotional stability, and good written and verbal communication skills.

To perform law enforcement and crime prevention work; to control traffic flow and enforce State and local traffic regulations; to perform investigative work; to participate in and provide support and assistance to special department crime prevention and enforcement programs.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the entrance-level classification in the professional police series requiring sworn peace officer status. Positions allocated to the Police Officer class may be assigned to one of several functional areas within the Police Department.

Supervision Received

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

Duties 

• Patrol Town in radio-equipped car; answer calls for the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of local and State laws; may conduct both preliminary and follow-up investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, hold-ups, vehicle accidents, death and other criminal incidents.
• Respond to calls related to traffic incidents and any other required emergencies; observe, monitor and control routine and unusual traffic conditions; assist and advise motorists, and enforce traffic safety laws.
• 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 detainees.
• Direct traffic at fire, special events, and other emergency or congested situations.
• Maintain contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserve good relationships with the public.
• Assist in the performance of special investigative and crime prevention duties as required.
• Prepare investigative reports and case information, provide evidence and testimony in court.
• Answer questions from the public concerning local and State laws, procedures, and activities of the Department.
• Interview victims, complainants, witnesses, and suspects.
• Collect, preserve, and maintain evidence and property found that is involved with suspected crimes.
• Serve warrants and subpoenas.
• Develop and maintain good relationships with the public, including informants and contacts, which may be helpful in criminal investigations.
• Perform related duties as assigned.