Police Officer; Lateral​/Pre-Service​/Academy Attendee

Job Overview

Applications are reviewed on a periodic basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Lateral or Pre-Service, or Current POST Academy Attendee

Comprehensive Fringe Benefits (View Full Details in the Benefits Tab^)

to view the  POA MOU

Employees working the graveyard shift receive a 3% differential added to their base pay.

Employees assigned to special details receive an additional 5% added to their base pay.

• Police Officer Lateral: Applicants must have been a full-time California Police Officer or a California Level I Reserve Officer within the past three years, and possess a P.O.S.T Basic Certificate.
• Police Officer Pre‑Service: Applicants must have graduated from a POST approved basic police academy within the past three years.
• Police Officer Academy Attendee: Applicants must be currently attending a California Basic P.O.S.T. Academy. Candidates must satisfactorily pass all requirements that lead to possession of the Basic Police Academy Certificate and all phases of the background process. Appointment to a sworn Police Officer position is contingent upon successful completion of the academy and background process followed by final review by the Police Chief.

The South Pasadena Police Department utilizes a community‑oriented approach for the delivery of police services. We serve based on a partnership with the community, an understanding of neighborhood problems, and the community's expectations of police service. Officers will be tasked with problem resolution within their assigned area, as well as for response to calls for service citywide. The city's size (3.4 square miles) and population (25,000 residents) allow for individual interaction with the supportive residents and businesses we serve.

Police Officers assigned to patrol shifts work a 3‑12 schedule.

Under general supervision, protects life and property, prevents crime, arrests criminals, and generally enforces laws and ordinances. Responsible for designated beat areas. Works assigned shifts. May be assigned to patrol by driving or walking. May be assigned to the Detective Bureau or traffic enforcement. Reports to a Corporal, Sergeant or higher‑level supervisor.

Patrols a designated area of the city in a vehicle or on foot, as needed. Enforces motor vehicle operation and parking regulations, the penal code and city ordinances. Prevents commission of crimes and inspects, reports, and corrects conditions which may lead to crime or delinquency. Conducts complete traffic accident, criminal, complaint and other investigations. Writes reports on investigations. Collects and preserves evidence.

Interviews witnesses. Testifies in court. Apprehends crime suspects and/or makes arrests. Performs jail booking procedures, including fingerprinting and photographing of prisoners. Receives complaints and reports, and provides the public with information and directions. Gives first aid in medical emergencies. Mediates and arbitrates disputes. May be assigned to traffic enforcement, bicycle regulation and safety education, or the general traffic safety program.

May train new recruits. May perform background investigations of applicants. May act as dispatcher in his/her absence. May lock or unlock park gates and other city property, depending on shift. Performs other related duties as required.

• High school diploma or GED Certificate required.
• College level coursework in Administration of Justice desirable.
• Basic P.O.S.T. Certificate desirable.
• Possession of California Driver's License Class "C" or higher.

Lateral Applicants must attach a copy of their Basic P.O.S.T Certificate.

Pre‑Service Applicants must attach a copy of their CA Basic P.O.S.T. Academy Certificate of completion.

Academy Attendees must attach proof of enrollment at a California Basic P.O.S.T. Academy to your online application in order to begin the recruitment process. Prior to any conditional job offer you will need to submit a copy of your graduation certificate from a California Basic P.O.S.T Academy.

Ability to comprehend and correctly use a variety of…