Community Service Officer

The Position

City of Santa Cruz is recruiting for Community Service Officer candidates to join a department that is nationally recognized for innovative community‑based policing strategies. The role supports sworn officers by performing low‑risk police functions and engaging positively with a diverse community. Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a valid California driver’s license and a safe driving record.

All applicants must submit proof of a passing POST Reading and Writing Test Battery (PELLETB) with a T‑score of 46.0 or higher taken in calendar years 2025 or 2026. Attach a verification letter or test score to the application.

• Apply online – resumes are not accepted in lieu of a complete application.
• Answer supplemental questions and submit the required PELLETB score.
• Continuous screening of applications based on minimum qualifications and test results.
• If qualified, submit a Non‑Sworn version of the Personal History Statement (NS‑PHS) within 14 calendar days of notification. (The form is available on the City website.)
• Followed by an oral interview panel.
• Background investigation and polygraph examination.
• Interview with the Chief of Police.
• Psychological examination.
• Medical examination, including drug/alcohol screening.

• New Community Service Officers are eligible for a $5,000 hiring bonus paid as follows: $1,000 upon successful completion of the Field Training Officer (FTO) program; $1,500 upon successful completion of probation; $2,500 at 2.5 years post‑hire.

An intensive background investigation will be conducted in accordance with POST guidelines. Candidates must pass a polygraph, psychological exam, and medical exam. Suitability will also be based on POST job dimensions such as problem‑solving, learning, observation, interpersonal sensitivity, integrity, communication skills, judgment under pressure, and physical ability.

Applicants must obtain and maintain a valid California driver’s license and safe driving record by the time of hire.

Under general supervision, patrol public areas; issue citations or verbal warnings for municipal code violations; write police reports; report criminal code violations to sworn officers; perform low‑risk investigations including interviews and evidence processing; conduct public contact work in crime prevention; and perform other duties as assigned.

• Takes and investigates low‑risk crime and traffic reports.
• Identifies, preserves, collects, and analyzes evidence.
• Coordinates documents and organizes investigative information for prosecution.
• Handles emergency and non‑emergency calls to assist citizens.
• Provides follow‑up on crime reports to obtain further information.
• Performs patrol duties on foot and in vehicles.
• Enforces municipal code violations and issues citations.
• Maintains a uniformed presence and provides security and information to the public.
• Delivers crime prevention information to citizen groups and businesses.
• Transports victims, witnesses, and prisoners as needed.
• Checks building security and detects fire and liability hazards.
• Identifies maintenance problems in buildings and wharves.
• Performs vehicle abatement duties and issues citations for parking violations.
• Attend court appearances as necessary.
• Directs traffic at accidents or special events, or serves as a school crossing guard.
• Fingerprints individuals.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

• High school graduation or equivalent.

• Verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the public.
• Organizational skills to gather and coordinate data.

• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
• Write clear, concise and accurate reports.
• Effectively listen, comprehend, and communicate via police radio.
• Interact tactfully with people of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships.
• Compile and maintain accurate records.
• Read maps and mapped information.
• Apply and explain regulations, codes, ordinances,…