Community Service Officer

Position Overview

Performs non‑emergency police services and a variety of community service activities. Work is performed indoors, outdoors, and in all weather conditions. This position is a non‑sworn position and the individual does not have arrest powers. Operates a police service vehicle and radio to maintain constant communication with the communications center.

Responds to nonviolent, non‑emergency criminal incidents and police calls where there is no suspect present; writes police reports; interviews witnesses and victims; assists with vehicle crashes when there are no injuries; conducts faulty equipment checks on motor vehicles; assists in removing highway obstructions; checks abandoned vehicles and communicates with the communications center.

Provides traffic assistance; directs traffic; issues parking citations; assists with fingerprinting requests; records and processes found property; identifies items of evidence; investigates animal complaints and ordinance violations; conducts vacation patrols; assists in crime prevention programs; may serve as a Field Training Officer after training.

• Annual Step for Performance Pay Adjustments
• 12 Paid Holidays Per Year
• 12 Vacation Days Minimum, Earned Per Year
• 12 Sick Days Earned Per Year
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance Benefits
• 401(a) Retirement Plan and Social Security Coverage
• Education/Tuition Assistance Program; and Training and Development Opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program – to include Mental Health Assistance/Services

• Graduation with an accredited high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must not have been convicted of a felony or a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false claim or received a dishonorable discharge.
• Must pass a physical examination, drug screen, and background investigation; demonstrate physical agility, strength, and good moral character; successfully complete the Community Service Officer Field Training Program.
• Must possess a valid Florida Class E driver’s license and a good driving record.
• Must have a clean system with no non‑prescribed controlled substances.

• Knowledge of laws, ordinances, and policies governing law enforcement;
  City government and departmental operations; geographic locations within the City; and methods and practices of crime prevention, criminal investigations, and other duties performed by law enforcement officers of the Winter Haven Police Department.
• Physical ability, strength, and flexibility sufficient to perform essential functions; ability to ambulate independently, stand, walk, sit, and operate a vehicle for prolonged periods; withstand work outside in extreme weather.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally, by telephone, and radio; to make public presentations; read, write, and prepare reports; work under stress; analyze tasks; react calmly in emergencies; establish effective relationships with officials, employees, citizens, and professional groups.
• Visual and hearing ability sufficient to operate a vehicle day and night; understand radio transmissions.

• Must possess a valid Florida Class E driver’s license and a good driving record as determined by the City of Winter Haven.
• Absence of non‑prescribed controlled substances in the applicant’s system as verified by a laboratory approved by the City of Winter Haven.

• Must have the physical ability, strength, and flexibility to perform the job functions in the work environment.
• Reasonable accommodations will be made for otherwise qualified individuals with a disability.

AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND A DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE