Police Officer

DESCRIPTION

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; and emphasize community-based policing, community interaction and collaborative problem solving and perform related work as required.

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

Works under the direct supervision of Police Sergeant or higher-ranking position depending upon assignment.

Does not supervise.

The following functions are typical for this classification. The incumbent may not perform all of the listed functions and/or may be required to perform additional or different functions from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

Patrols assigned areas by car, foot, 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 instruction; 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.

Attends special training classes and target practice.

Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations and associations, City management and staff and the public.

Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way would be:

Graduation from high school or equivalent, or have attained a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university. Graduate from a P.O.S.T. Basic Police Academy. Must obtain and maintain a valid Basic Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate within eighteen (18) months of hire.

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 in this position. 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…