Police Officer - Lateral

Overview

This recruitment process will close on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

Under general supervision, police officers enforce laws and ordinances, prevent crime, protect life and property, maintain order, investigate crimes, accidents, vandalism, and detain persons suspected of criminal behavior. Police officers emphasize community-based policing, community interaction, and collaborative problem solving in all aspects of the job.

The Police Officer is a journey level class in the Police Officer series. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned law enforcement duties and responsibilities under general supervision. The classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Police Sergeant in that the latter is responsible for the performance of more complex and difficult tasks, makes command decisions in the field, and supervises assigned personnel and activities.

Works under the direct supervision of Police Sergeant or a higher-ranking position depending upon assignment. Does not supervise.

• Patrols assigned areas by car, foot, bicycle, or motorcycle; performs crime suppression and prevention activities; makes arrests, issues citations, serves subpoenas, and warrants; gives directions and answers special calls; conducts initial and follow‑up investigations.
• Interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; answers complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code and local ordinance violations; performs surveillance activities.
• Conducts chemical, drug and alcohol testing; investigates suspicious circumstances; performs selective enforcement when assigned; responds to radio messages or telephone instructions.
• Appears at scenes of accidents, disorders or crimes; notes and reports traffic hazards; investigates and prepares reports on accidents, offenses and damages to property.
• Assists in booking and releasing prisoners; transports prisoners; appears in court on and off duty as the arresting officer; interrogates persons whose actions are suspicious; performs initial investigations of crime and violations reported.
• Regulates traffic, enforces traffic laws; conducts complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; reports unsafe or hazardous conditions; requests objects which may endanger traffic be removed from the streets; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; may act as a dispatcher or jailer, assists in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; counsels and educates the community;
  
  administers first aid in cases of emergency.
• Provides assistance, information and responds to questions in collaboration with staff, citizens and public safety agencies as appropriate; emphasizes collaborative problem solving and community interaction in all aspects of the job and in a manner that is free of bias against any individuals or specific groups of people.
• Attends special training classes and target practice.
• Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations and associations, City management, staff and the public.

Graduation from high school or equivalent, or attainment of a two‑year, four‑year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must currently be employed by a California Law Enforcement Agency, be off probation and be in possession of a Basic POST Certificate issued by the State of California.

Must possess a California Class C driver’s license showing proof of insurance and a satisfactory driving record required at time of appointment and throughout employment. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law. English/Spanish bilingual skills highly desirable. Must be 21 years of age at the time of application. Per Section 13651 PC: must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise…