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Application Process for Police Officer Trainee (Entry- Level):

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. To be considered a complete application, qualified candidates must complete a City of Daly City application, supplemental questionnaire and submit a copy of current verification of completion of POST Entry-level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) Written Exam and WSTB (physical agility exam) from South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Consortium (SBRPSTC) . Please upload a PDF copy of current verification of completion of POST Entry-level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) Written Exam and WSTB (physical agility exam) from South Bay Regional Public Safety Training Consortium (SBRPSTC)  with your application otherwise it will be considered INCOMPLETE.

We strongly prefer that you upload the verification documents in one file when you are applying online. If you are unable to upload documents please email a copy of the verification documents immediately after submitting your application online to [email protected]/* */ along with a coversheet indicating that you submitted your application online.

Selection Process:

Only candidates demonstrating possession of the requirements in the Qualifications section will be considered for immediate consideration. The Police Department's selection process includes an interview and successful completion of a thorough Background Investigation, including fingerprinting as well as polygraph exam, psychological evaluation, and medical examinations.

·         The Police Officer Trainee is a temporary position with the City of Daly City; an incumbent in this position receives benefits which include only Workers Compensation and Unemployment Insurance and Medicare.

·         The Police Officer Trainee will attend a P.O.S.T. Certified Academy. Upon successful completion of the academy, the trainee will be appointed to the Civil Service position of Police Officer.

·         At the time of appointment to the Civil Service position of Police Officer, the employee will be informed of City employment rights and available benefits.

·         All qualifications for Police Officer apply to the Police Officer Trainee position except for completion of the Police Academy.

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, subject to exercise of individual judgment and initiative, to perform law enforcement and crime prevention work; to control traffic flow and enforce state and local traffic regulations; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

An incumbent in this position performs a variety of law enforcement activities during an assigned shift, which may include crime response, patrol, investigation, traffic enforcement, crime prevention and public safety, case presentation and variable shifts. They wear uniforms, carry weapons, drive patrol cars or ride motorcycles and must comply with departmental grooming standards. In addition, they work under potentially adverse and hazardous conditions and are on call.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Patrols an assigned area in radio car, on motorcycle, or on foot; answers calls for protection of life and private property, and the enforcement of city, county and state laws; conducts preliminary or full investigations depending on assignment, of prowlers, burglaries, thefts, holdups, accidents, deaths and other disturbances; directs traffic, including regulation of vehicle flow at emergency or congested situations; stops drivers who are operating vehicles in violation of laws; warns drivers against unlawful practices; collects and presents evidence with criminal prosecutions; serves warrants and subpoenas; prepares reports of arrests made, investigations conducted, and unusual incidents observed; gives information and directions to the public. Assists in maintaining police records and types records and reports; operates headquarters radio telephone equipment to dispatch officers on patrol; as ordered, acts as lead officer in the field on a shift. Performs basic investigation, consulting and crime prevention work in assisting to control juvenile delinquency; performs such other basic police work as attending fire scenes to assist in the protection of life and property, parade and crowd controlling duties, and engaging in problem-solving skills and tactics.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

To qualify for competition in this entry-level examination, you must:

1.         Be 21 years of age.

2.         Possess a United States high school diploma, or G.E.D. with qualifying scores, or have passed the California High School Proficiency Examination, or attained a two-year or four-year degree from a college or university accredited by the Western Association of Colleges and Universities.

3.        Have satisfactorily completed a P.O.S.T. approved academy.

4.         Possess a valid Class CCalifornia Driver's License by date of appointment.

5.         Possess a personal history which is compatible with the effective performance of sworn police duties.

6.         Have the physical strength, stamina and agility adequate to perform all duties of a Police Officer.

7.         Hear well enough to comprehend radio transmissions and long-range conversations.

8.         Have adequate written and oral communication skills to give instructions and explanations, conduct information-gathering interviews and write reports.

9.        Be able to deal with a variety of people and situations, exercising judgment, tact and self-restraint.

10.       Have adequate reading skills to understand and interpret orders, bulletins, laws, codes and court decisions.

11.       Be willing to work irregular hours and days and at various locations in the City.

 12.       Be able to interact positively     interact positively and cooperate with co-workers, respond politely to customers, and work as a team member.                                                                                                             

attend work and perform duties on a regular and consistent basis 

The City of Lincoln is accepting applications for the position of Police Officer (Lateral/Academy Graduate) within the Police Department.  This recruitment is open-continuous and applications will be reviewed as vacancies occur.  Interested applicants are encouraged to apply immediately.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

Lincoln Police Officers serve a diverse community by performing law enforcement and crime prevention duties, which include but are not limited to: controlling traffic flow, conducting investigative work, and performing a variety of technical law enforcement tasks.  Police Officers also patrol the City in computer-equipped vehicles, make arrests as necessary, interview victims, complainants and witnesses, collect evidence, and prepare written reports.  The Lincoln Police Department is a full-service department of 28 sworn officers, 9 dispatchers and 4 civilian positions. The department serves a population of nearly 50,000 residents in a 20+ square mile suburban area.

THE POSITION

The Police Officer is the journey-level class responsible for performance of 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 performance of the more complex and difficult tasks, and the supervision of assigned activities.  Receives general supervision from a Police Sergeant, or higher ranking position depending upon assignment. May provide technical supervision and training if serving in the Field Training Program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Include, but are not limited to the following:

• Patrols assigned areas by car, foot or bicycle; performs crime suppression and prevention activities; 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.
• Enforces traffic laws; conducts complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; assists in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; serves search warrants and subpoenas; administers first aid in cases of emergency; transports, books and is responsible for the care and custody of detained persons.
• Trains and assists less experienced personnel as assigned; may serve as a Field Training Officer or in a variety of special program areas including gang taskforce, community resources, schools liaison, traffic patrol, task forces, crime prevention and administration.
• May serve as a detective; coordinates and conducts complete and detailed investigation of crimes against persons and property, and crimes involving vice, gaming and narcotics violations; performs undercover and surveillance activities; conducts registration and tracking of sex offenders; collects, preserves and maintains evidence and property.
• Obtains and processes evidence; takes written statements; prepares required reports and maintains investigative records; serves warrants and subpoenas; testifies in court in connection with prosecution of offenders; contacts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies as warranted.
• Responds to questions, concerns and requests for service from the general public; provides information as appropriate and resolves complaints.
• Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, state/local agencies and associations, City management and staff, and the public.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, running, jumping, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires both near and far vision and acute hearing. Additionally, incumbents may work outdoors in all weather conditions including wet, hot and cold. The position entails working in hazardous situations, and may involve abusive persons, potential physical violence and the potential risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens in the performance of law enforcement duties. The nature of the work also requires the incumbent to drive motorized vehicles, operate a variety of law enforcement equipment, work in heavy vehicle traffic conditions and often work with constant interruptions.

KNOWLEDGE/ABILITIES/SKILLS

The following are a representative sample of the KAS’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Knowledge of:Operations and standard operating procedures of a Police Department; principles of crime prevention and suppression; modern law enforcement methods and procedures, including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control and investigation; basic principles of law enforcement information systems; methods and techniques of supervision, training and motivation; basic principles of mathematics; applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations; methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments; standard office procedures, practices and equipment; modern office equipment including a computer and applicable software; methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing; proper English, spelling and grammar; occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

Ability to: Gather, analyze and evaluate facts and evidence and reach sound conclusions; act quickly and calmly in emergency situations; interpret, explain and apply applicable laws, codes and regulations; read, interpret and record data accurately; organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team; make sound decisions within established guidelines; analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response; follow written and oral directions; observe safety principles and work in a safe manner; communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Skill to: Operate an office computer and a variety of word processing and software applications; safely and effectively operate a variety of law enforcement equipment, firearms and a police vehicle in emergency situations.

THE SELECTION PROCESS

This recruitment is for Lateral or Academy Graduate candidates only.  Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to the process. The recruitment process is as follows:

1. Oral Board Interviews
2. Chief’s Interview
3. Background
4. Computer Voice Stress Analyzer Test (CVSA®)

Candidates selected for the position will be required to complete a full-background investigation, reference checks, fingerprint check, medical/drug-test and a psychological exam.  Upon hire, Lateral candidates must complete an abbreviated Field Training Program and Academy Graduate Candidates must complete a 16-week Field Training Program.

Human Resources will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate persons with disabilities.  Please advise HR of any special needs a minimum of five days in advance of the selection process exam by calling (916) 434-3229. The City of Lincoln is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The information contained herein is subject to change and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.

Police Officer Trainees may be eligible to receive a hiring bonus of up to $10,000 disbursed in four equal phases: the first phase upon successful completion of the testing process and acceptance of a final offer of employment, and the last phase two years after completion of the probationary period as a Police Officer. 

Please review the special instructions before applying for this job opportunity.

Compensation:

Police Officer Trainee:   $6,668.53 - $6,997.47 monthly
Police Officer:  $9,113.87 - $10,998.00 monthly

This recruitment is open to those individuals with no prior law enforcement experience and have not received POST certified police academy training.   If you are a POST certified academy graduate, please apply to the recruitment titled Police Officer (Academy Graduate or Participant).

THE POSITION:  This is a trainee level classification which provides transition into the position of Police Officer.  A Police Officer Trainee is hired into this civilian position for the period prior to and during the time they are assigned to a Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified police academy.  The police academy has an expected duration of approximately 6 months.  Upon successful completion of training at an academy and upon the availability of a Police Officer position, Police Officer Trainees are sworn in and appointed to the classification of Police Officer.  The Police Officer Trainee is represented by SEIU Local 1021 and benefits are limited to those of a civilian employee.

Upon appointment to Police Officer, duties may include a wide variety of law enforcement assignments such as: patrol, traffic control, criminal and juvenile investigation, and radio communication.  These require operating a patrol car or motorcycle, arresting and citing violators of laws, writing reports, serving warrants, testifying in court and providing information to the public.  Please see the City of Hayward's website for a complete job description.

For more information about The Hayward Police Department, please visit www.joinhaywardpd.com.
 

Essential Duties

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Attends a basic POST certified police academy designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system including knowledge of laws, police procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid and physical fitness.
Receives training to develop an awareness of Police Department functions, as well as the responsibilities of Police Officers and how those responsibilities relate to field operations.
Receives academy and field training to become a Police Officer.

JOB RELATED AND ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Ability to:

• Successfully complete academy requirements.
• Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents and places.
• Think and act quickly in emergencies, and to judge situations and people accurately.
• Understand and interpret laws and regulations.
• Prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written reports.
• Become proficient in self-defense techniques.
• Become proficient in the care and use of firearms.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Deal courteously and effectively with the general public.

 

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience: None.

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Licenses: Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver's License.

Special Qualifications:

• Free of any felony convictions.
• A citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (Government Code Para. 1031).
• Age, not less than 21 years at time of appointment.
• Vision in each eye, correctable to at least 20/30.
• Must pass a background investigation.
• Must meet all Department medical, physical and psychological standards.
• Bi-lingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

TO VIEW JOB ANNOUNCEMENT, CLICK JOB PDF OR JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL BELOW.

The City of Menlo Park currently has an excellent opportunity for experienced Communications Dispatchers. Shift work including weekends and holidays is required.

Communications Dispatchers are responsible for receiving and dispatching emergency and non-emergency calls for the Police Department and City.  Responsibilities are centered on extensive contact with the public over the telephone, in both emergency and non-emergency situations to receive, transmit, and provide factual information and assistance.  All activities are performed within specified legal guidelines.  Incumbents are expected to work independently and exercise judgment and initiative.

A job description, including examples of typical job functions and qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities, is available by clicking on the Job Description link.

To be considered for this position, candidates must submit a 1) City of Santa Clara Employment Application and 2) Proof of completion of a Basic Peace Officer Academy certified by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) OR proof of completion of Level 1 Reserve Peace Officer POST Regular Basic Course (Reserve Police Officers Only). Incomplete applications will not be accepted. All applicants are required to obtain authorization from their home agency Chief of Police/Sheriff authorizing them to work on a Per Diem basis for the City of Santa Clara.  

 

For additional information regarding this position, please email Joe Oliver at joliver@SantaClaraCA.gov. 

 

The Department: 

The men and women of the Santa Clara Police Department take tremendous pride in providing the community with outstanding service through the "Santa Clara Way" of service.  In partnership with the citizens, the team provides law enforcement services with professional and dedicated staff. The team will always identify and resolve problems utilizing all available resources and perform services professionally and with a high level of integrity. To learn more visit our website.   

 

 

As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants. 

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW. 

 

 

Typical Duties

Duties include but are not limited to the following:
• Under general supervision: patrol designated areas in, by foot, by bicycle, or other means to preserve law and order;
• Direct traffic;
• Enforce parking regulations, issue citations that are in violation of codes;
• Observe, monitor, and control routine and unusual traffic conditions; assist and advise motorists; issue parking  citations and warnings;
• Discover and prevent the commission of crimes, and enforce laws and ordinances; 
• Maintain awareness of and remain alert for wanted suspects, known criminals, stolen vehicles, missing persons, traffic violators, and crimes in progress; 
• Conduct investigations at scenes of incidents to which summoned or incidents observed to determine what, if any, crime has been committed;
• Respond to calls for the protection of life and property, the enforcement of laws and ordinances, general public service calls, and complaints including those involving automobile accidents, traffic hazards, misdemeanor and felony incidents;
• Investigate complaints and take appropriate action, which may include the use of deadly or non-deadly force;
• Use sound judgment under adverse, stressful conditions;
• Identify, collect, preserve, process, and book evidence;
• Locate and interview victims and witnesses;
• Work in partnership with the Santa Clara Police Department and the District Attorney's Office to follow through on criminal complaints;
• Apprehend and arrest offenders for crimes committed under federal, state, and local laws and codes;
• Control and mitigate people under the influence of drugs or alcohol or other potentially hostile situations;
• Establish and preserve good relationships with the general public;
• Answer questions from the public concerning local and state laws, procedures, and activities of the department, apply good public relation principals;
• Participate in continuous training required by POST  to enhance law enforcement skills 
• Attend meetings and trainings;
• Prepare a variety of reports including those on activities, operations, arrests made, and unusual incidents observed; prepare investigative reports and case information;
• Testify in courts and at hearings; prepare and present case evidence;
• Escort prisoners to county jail, juvenile hall, or Santa Clara Police Department; and
• Perform other duties as assigned.

 

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE  

• Currently employed as a Full Time or Part Time Peace Officer with a California Law Enforcement Agency; or

• Currently working as a Level I Reserve Police Officer with a California Law Enforcement Agency; or

• Retired as a Full Time Peace Officer with a California Law Enforcement Agency; or two years experience as a Peace Officer with a California Law Enforcement Agency and possession of a valid Basic Certificate issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training.  

LICENSES &/OR CERTIFICATES

• Possession of a valid driver's license is required; 

• Proof of a current Basic or higher certificate issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) is required at the time of application and for the duration of employment  (Not required for Reserve Police Officers, see below);

• Must have passed Field Training Program with home agency as required by POST;

• Must have passed Probationary Period with home agency;

• The minimum Peace Officer selection standards are set forth in Government Code (GC) Sections 1029, 1031, and 1031.4.  Every California Peace Officer must be: Free from any disqualifications for employment, including felony convictions (GC 1029). Be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law (GC 1031);

• and at least 21 yrs of age for specified peace officers (GC 1031.4).

• Must maintain current CPR and First Aid Certification.

Reserve Police Officers Must Also Provide: Proof of completion of Level 1 Reserve Peace Officer POST Regular Basic Course (Reserve Police Officers Only).

 

PHYSICAL AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Must be at least 20 years of age at time of application filing and 21 years of age at time of job appointment;

• Must meet and maintain required peace officer employment standards as required by POST;

• Per the California Public Employee Retirement System (CalPERS) "Public Safety Retirees on service retirement may not work more than 960 hours in a fiscal year for all CalPERS employers:;

• Retirees who were medically retired (industrial or non-industrial) should confirm with their retirement plan that accepting employment as a Per Diem Police Officer will not jeopardize their pension;

• Must possess the strength and physical ability necessary to perform the essential functions of the position;

• Must possess hearing, speech, and mental capabilities sufficient to perform all of the essential functions of the position; and

• Must be willing to be fingerprinted and pass a departmental interview, psychological, medical, and background investigation prior to appointment.

 

Vision requirements:  

• Must possess vision including color, night, depth, and peripheral vision sufficient to perform all of the essential functions of the position; and

• Must possess visual acuity of not less than 20/80 vision in each eye uncorrected, and corrected to 20/30 in each eye.

 

EXCEPTION:  Applicants with correction afforded by soft contact lenses are exempt from the minimum uncorrected vision standard of 20/80, provided their corrected vision is 20/30 in each eye.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Environment: 

The employee is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions; extreme cold, extreme heat, potentially hostile environments; extensive public contact. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may be very loud due to crowd noise, music, sirens, firearm training, etc. Incumbents are required to work various shifts, including evenings and weekends, and may be required to travel to attend meetings or court appearances.

 

Physical: 

Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in a law enforcement setting; restrain or subdue individuals; walk, stand, sit, bike or run for prolonged periods of time;

occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; occasionally climb and balance; regularly push, pull, lift, and/or carry light to moderate weights; frequently lift and/or move moderate to heavy weights; occasionally lift and/or move heavy weights; requires a sense of touch, finger dexterity, and gripping with hands and fingers;

 

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Will be required to work special events.

• Will be required to work odd and unusual hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays.

• Will be required to provide safety equipment (defined as ballistic vest, duty belt, and firearm) approved by the Santa Clara Police Department.

• Per the California Public Employee Retirement System (CalPERS) "Public Safety Retirees on service retirement may not work more than 960 hours in a fiscal year for all CalPERS employers."

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Possession of the following knowledge, skills, and abilities at a level necessary to do police work:

 

Interest in Police Work – willingness to handle routine, repetitive tasks; enforce laws that may conflict with personal values; relate to others; work with minorities; work with fellow officers and the general public; participate in situations that require courage; function in different roles; work under hostile conditions, work under hazardous conditions over long periods of time; accept new job duties; and work weekends, holidays.

 

Ability to Take Orders – the ability to relate to supervisors; to maintain objectivity; to take criticism and control temper.

 

Ability to Take Responsibility   - the ability to work without supervision; reliability; ability to participate in situations that require courage, refrain from abusing authority vested in an official role;  maintain confidentiality of information; and assume a command presence in conflict situations.

 

Self-Control – the ability to control one's temper, maintain objectivity; take criticism, function under oral or physical stress; use authority effectively; function in different roles, work under hazardous and hostile conditions for long periods of time, and work at accident and crime scenes which involve severe personal injuries, or in situations which involve loss of life.

 

Ability to Communicate Effectively – the ability to testify accurately; obtain information from witnesses under normal and stressful conditions; communicate in person, in writing, and via radio.

 

Ability to Make Reasonable Decisions Rapidly – the ability to reason logically; apply discretion in maintaining confidentiality of information; observe and interpret what is observed; evaluate situations and people effectively; and apply good judgment.

 

Willingness to Arrest People – willingness to take actions which will result in imposing penalties on others, including: depriving them of their freedom; taking a life if necessary; and fighting to win and injuring another if required; use techniques and applications of self-defense and proper use of force.

 

Ability to Learn – the immediate potential to learn to write readable, comprehensible reports; to read and interpret relevant laws and procedural material including designated SCPD Operations Manual Sections and Stadium Security Procedures; read maps; apply regulations; communicate verbally with others under stress, analyze material and situations; and record observations from accident and crime scenes.

 

Emotional Stability – the ability to take verbal abuse; the possession of: honesty, integrity, maturity,   tolerance, self-confidence, truthfulness and psychological stability; ability to meet the physical and psychological demands of police work.

 

Ability to Problem Solve – the ability to identify problems or issues that are of concern to residents of the City or Stadium attendees.

 

Additional Information: 

You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit 1) an online City of Santa Clara Employment Application and 2) Proof of completion of a Basic Peace Officer Academy certified by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) OR proof of completion of Level 1 Reserve Peace Officer POST Regular Basic Course (Reserve Police Officers Only).  Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is continuous: Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis for consideration to the position.  If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

 

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov. 

 

 

*Effective the first full pay periods following 1/1/2025, a 3% Cost of Living increase and up to 4% equity adjustment will be applied to the hourly wage for the Police Officer Trainee position (totaling 14% in two years).

THE POSITION:

Under direct supervision, the Police Officer Trainee attends a Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T) approved Police Basic Recruit Academy and successfully completes the academic and physical training required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer Recruit II. Police Officer Trainees are considered at-will employees. Police officer probationary status begins when the trainee is sworn in as a Police Officer Recruit II after completion of the police academy.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Participate in a P.O.S.T certified police academy designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system including knowledge of laws, police procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid and physical fitness.
• Receives training to develop an awareness of Police Department functions, as well as the responsibilities of Police Officers and how those responsibilities relate to field operations.
• Receives academy and field training to become a Police Officer.
• Learns proper handling and firing of firearms, report writing and emergency vehicle operation. 
• Develops an understanding and working knowledge of the California Penal, Vehicle, Health and Safety Codes. 
• Develops an understanding of proper evidence collection and preservation methods.
   

*Effective the first full pay periods following 1/1/2025, a 3% cost of Living increase and up to 4% equity adjustment to the hourly wage for the Police Officer Trainee - Academy Attendee position (totaling 14% in two years).

THE POSITION:

Under direct supervision, the Police Officer Trainee attends a Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T) approved Police Basic Recruit Academy and successfully completes the academic and physical training required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer Recruit II.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Participate in a P.O.S.T certified police academy designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system including knowledge of laws, police procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid and physical fitness.
• Receives training to develop an awareness of Police Department functions, as well as the responsibilities of Police Officers and how those responsibilities relate to field operations.
• Receives academy and field training to become a Police Officer.
• Learns proper handling and firing of firearms, report writing and emergency vehicle operation. 
• Develops an understanding and working knowledge of the California Penal, Vehicle, Health and Safety Codes. 
• Develops an understanding of proper evidence collection and preservation methods.
   

*Effective the first full pay periods following 1/1/2025, a 3% Cost of Living increase and up to 4% equity adjustment will be applied to the hourly wage for the Police Officer Lateral position (totaling 14% in two years). *The listed salary does not include an additional 17.5% in potential incentive pay upon completion of FTO or a projected 14% raise paid over the next two years*

THE POSITION:

Under immediate, then as proficiency increases, general supervision of a Field Training Officer, Police Sergeant or higher ranking official, incumbents in this classification perform and document varied law enforcement assignments through working assigned shifts in patrol or on specialty assignments and participating in training; perform related work as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Patrol:

• Respond to emergency calls; administer first aide.
• Investigate reported crimes, suspicious activity, and traffic accidents.
• Investigate unattended deaths.
• Conduct the collection and preservation of evidence at crime scenes.
• Patrol assigned sectors in a marked vehicle to provide preventive and enforcement action.
• Assist citizens in distress and provide information regarding police function/operations.
• Quell domestic disturbances and other disputes.
• Initiate suspicious person contacts and conduct field interrogations.
• Locate and apprehend persons for violations of statutes; arrange for booking, detention, and disposition of arrestees.
• Provide crowd, riot, and traffic control.
• Write reports which are accurate, clear, and concise.
• Testify in court.
• Respond to citizen inquiries and complaints both in an office environment and while on patrol.

• Traffic:

• Perform selective enforcement of traffic violations at identified problem areas; use LIDAR, or other designated equipment.
• Conduct post storage hearings on towed vehicles and review complaints related to towing company activities.
• Author collision reports.
• Conduct investigations for hit and run, injury, and fatal accidents including accident reconstruction.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise special event traffic control.
• Advise and consult with City personnel on traffic issues.
• Present lectures and discussions to high school students.
• Conduct training for officers on changes in traffic law and reporting techniques.
• Conduct inspections of commercial vehicles for safety, weight, size, and load violations.

• School Resource:

• Investigate and apprehend persons who commit crimes on campus.
• Monitor gang activity as it related to criminal activity both on and off campus.
• Monitor bus stop and other campus areas where potential or ongoing problems exist.
• Act as the liaison between school staff and police department.
• Conduct formal presentations for students and staff; engage in informal discussions of law enforcement with students and staff.
• Coordinate and supervise security at school activities. Refer students to appropriate agencies for assistance.
• Coordinate and implement school fingerprinting program.
• Make home visits to truants; counsel students on minor law infractions.

• Investigations:

• Investigate aggravated, serial, or major crimes; follow up on cases initiated by Patrol.
• Develop leads through informants, police sources, citizens, and/or evidence.
• Interview witnesses; interrogate suspects.
• Collect, preserve, and arrange for proper identification of evidence.
• Prepare and serve search and arrest warrants; conduct search and seizure assignments.
• Review reports for trends; identify suspects and crime patterns.
• Work with the District Attorney in reviewing and preparing cases for court.
   

• Upon successful completion of the Public Safety Officer in Training requirements, incumbents promote to Public Safety Officer I ($136,764 - $158,321).
• Upon successful completion of all phases of training, members of the Public Safety Officer I classification promote to Public Safety Officer II ($144,724 - $180,310).
• This position has an excellent benefit package, including 2.7% at 57 retirement plan.

Under immediate supervision of a Public Safety Lieutenant or Captain, either currently attends the California POST Basic Academy and is learning to perform a wide range of public safety work involving the protection of life and property including law enforcement, crime prevention, fire suppression, rescue, and basic life support activities; or has graduated from the California POST Basic Academy within the last 12 months; and performs related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS 

The position of Public Safety Officer Academy Attendee/Graduate is the training level classification for general police and fire work for those incumbents not affiliated with an agency and currently enrolled in a police academy. Incumbents are not sworn personnel and are generally in this classification until successful completion of the police academy. Assignment to this classification is temporary. If incumbents do not successfully complete a police academy, they will be terminated.  Incumbents hired after the graduation from the California POST Basic Academy are not sworn personnel and are generally in this classification until they are promoted to Public Safety Officer I.

Public Safety Officer Academy Attendee/Graduate is distinguished from the higher-level Public Safety Officer I in that the latter is a sworn position where incumbents continue training for both police and fire duties. Incumbents must successfully complete the police academy prior to being promoted to the classification of Public Safety Officer I.