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Police Officer - Entry Level

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Description: Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work, controls traffic flow and enforces state and local regulations. Some essential duties are:

• Responds to calls for service and takes appropriate action to resolve problems
• Renders assistance to citizens in distress
• Initiates investigation of criminal or suspicious activity
• Makes arrests, issues citations, and gives warnings when appropriate
• Enforces all laws without bias
• Conducts business license checks
• Promotes crime prevention and disseminates security information
• Testifies accurately and honestly in court

Education: Graduation from a U.S. High School or equivalent is required.  Additional education at the college level is preferred.

Licenses:  Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license by the time of hire, and ability to maintain the valid license.

Physical Requirement: Meet standards of adequate physical stature, endurance and agility. Vision: • 20/100 correctable to 20/30, with adequate depth perception and color vision. If soft contacts are worn, no limit on uncorrected distance visual acuity provided soft lenses have been worn for at least six months prior to the physical examination.

Background: • As part of the selection process, successful candidates will undergo a stringent background investigation which will include: confirming all information provided by the candidates, a polygraph test and psychological and medical examinations. Candidates may be disqualified at any point in this process. Felony Convictions: • State and Federal Law require that all Police Officers be free from felony conviction and domestic violence. Citizenship: • Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or resident aliens that are eligible and have applied for U.S. Citizenship. 

CITY OF PACIFICA

Invites you to apply for the position of

POLICE OFFICER - Trainee

If you are on the path to becoming a police officer, and would like to attend the POST academy to graduate and obtain your POST Certification,  this is the perfect opportunity to join our team!

Take this opportunity to explore our dynamic, full-service, community police department. The position is intended for you to attend a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy and receive the academic and physical training resulting in graduation and certification required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer. 

Apply today!!  

DEFINITION

Under immediate supervision, attend a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy and receive the academic and physical training resulting in graduation and certification required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This classification is structured for incumbents hired with the purpose of becoming a sworn police officer.  Police Officer Trainees are hired into this position for the period prior and during the time they are assigned to a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy.  Upon successful completion of training at the academy and upon the availability of a Police Officer position, Police Officer Trainees will be sworn in and appointed to the classification of Police Officer at the beginning of the following pay period. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receive immediate supervision from higher level supervisory or management staff and from training staff at a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS – INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Attend a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement 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.
• Receive 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.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

• English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Basic principles of business writing and basic report writing
• Principles and practices of good customer service
• Techniques and practices of effective interpersonal communication
• Principles and practices of safety management

Skills/Ability to:

• Successfully complete a POST-Basic Law Enforcement Academy including classroom instruction, physical agility and use of firearms.
• Learn proper police procedures and methods.
• Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places.
• Think and act quickly in emergencies and 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.

Experience and Training Guidelines

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

Experience: None required.

Training: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade (High School diploma). Completion of 30 semester units from an accredited college or university (60 units or more is preferred).

Licenses: Possession of and ability to maintain a valid California Driver’s License.

Necessary Special Qualifications:

• At the time of application, all applicants must show proof of passing the PELLETB test with a minimum T-Score of 50 and successful completion of the WSTB test (physical agility).  These tests can be taken by visiting www.theacademy.ca.gov.  All testing information including practice tests can be located on the site.
• 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.
• Meet all regulatory requirements for becoming a Peace Officer with a California P.O.S.T agency.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Physical Skills

Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, squat, stoop, reach, crawl, twist, climb, and lift 50 pounds. 

Work Environment

Exposure to cold, heat, extreme noise, outdoors, confining workspace, electrical hazards, chemicals, dust, toxic waste, mechanical hazards, and explosive materials.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Police Officer ~ Lateral Transfer, Academy Graduate, and Academy Attendee with the City of Pacifica.

THIS IS A CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT.

This job posting is for lateral transfer, academy graduate, and academy attendee only and NOT for entry-level applicants.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN.

At the City of Pacifica, we are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. To us, equal opportunity employment is not just about compliance, it’s about who you are, how you can help our City and who you want to be. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and residents.

The Pacifica Police Department is responsible for all functions related to law enforcement and crime prevention and is made up of several divisions that carry out specialized duties to help the department perform as a cohesive whole. Those divisions are Field Services, Investigations, Communications and Records. The City of Pacifica Police Officers operate at the heart of the community, ensuring the safety of those who work, live, and visit the City. Staff includes thirty-seven (37) full-time positions and (4) part-time support positions.

Together, they come together to carry out the Police Department mission …"to protect and serve the members of our community with the highest level of commitment, ethics and professionalism.” 

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, to promote community order, to protect life and property, to prevent crime, to maintain order, to enforce laws, ordinances, and constitutional mandates, to do investigative work in detection of crime, to perform public service tasks, while working varying hours and shifts, and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an entry level, sworn position serving the city of Pacifica maintaining and fostering high ethical, and professional standards within the police department and throughout the community.

Responsible for protecting life and property while enforcing the California Penal Code, California Vehicle Code and Pacifica Municipal Codes

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXECUTED

Receive general supervision from the Police Sergeant, Police Corporal, Police Captain and/or the Chief of Police.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDING BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Protect life and property through patrolling assigned areas.
• To maintain law and order.
• Answer calls for service from citizens regarding criminal activity and other matters relating to the safety of the community.
• Investigate crimes through contact with victims, suspects, and witnesses collecting, processing, and storing evidence.
• Monitor traffic to prevent accidents.  Enforces Vehicle Code laws and promotes traffic movement throughout the city.
• Investigate traffic accidents.
• Issues citations or warnings as appropriate.
• Give assistance to the injured.
• Make arrests.
• Issue citations or warnings as appropriate.
• Guard prisoners.
• Question suspects.
• Note and report unsafe conditions.
• Prepare evidence and appear in court.
• Search for stolen property and lost persons.
• Give information to the public regarding laws, ordinances, traffic safety, directions, and available public services.
• Document activities with complete, clear, and concise written reports and correspondence.
• Interact with social agencies, schools, families and juveniles regarding juvenile matters.
• Assist citizens, give directions, and promote community relations.
• Maintain effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies, employees, and the public.
• Maintain assigned equipment.
• Protect the life, property, public order, and constitutional rights of all community members.
• Adhere to the California Peace Officers Standards and Training Code of Ethics.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness which meets job requirements.
• Perform other duties or projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
 

Knowledge of

• Principles and practices of law enforcement services and program administration.
• Pertinent local, State and Federal rules, regulations, and laws.
• Criminal law as it relates to the apprehension, arrest, and prosecution of law violators and the collection of evidence.
• City of Pacifica streets, neighborhoods, and municipal code.
• Departmental policies and procedures
• Modern office procedures and computer equipment.
• Use of firearms and other modern police equipment and communications and information systems related to law enforcement.

Skill/Ability to

• Analyze and prioritize situations and adopt effective courses of action while giving due regard to protocols, procedures, surrounding hazards and circumstances.
• Interpret and apply city policies, procedures, rules and regulations and police department general orders.  
• Establish and maintain effective community relations on both an individual and group basis.
• To read, comprehend, explain, and apply complex issues of law derived from a variety of sources to include code books, computer screens, and other printed material.
• Drive a motor vehicle under emergency conditions and to hear verbal communications at normal speaking tones via radio and telephone and verbalize succinctly prepare and write accurate and factual reports.
• Qualify in the use of firearms and defense tactics on a periodic basis.
• Remain current and meet all post guidelines.
• Write accurate, clear, concise, factual reports.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with other employees, supervisors, public officials and employees of other non-police organizations and agencies, as well as the public to be served.
• Meet and maintain POST standards.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

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

Experience: none
 

Training: High school graduate or equivalent qualification, and 30 semester units from an accredited college or university desired (not required)
 

Certification: Must pass a comprehensive physical examination, meeting the standards established by the California Commission on Peace Officers Standards & Training (POST)
 

License: Possession and maintenance of a California Class C driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.
 

Minimum requirements for lateral entry officers:

• Must meet all minimum requirements for entry level officer with the exception of written and agility examination requirements.
• Must possess a POST Basic Certificate.
• A minimum of one-year satisfactory past police patrol experience within the past three years.
• Must have no record of felony criminal convictions or misdemeanor convictions that could affect credibility as a witness in a court of law.
• Vision and hearing capabilities consistent with guidelines by POST and/or the City.
• Must be of good moral character to be determined by a thorough background investigation, which will be conducted under POST guidelines.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Physical Skills

Vision adequate to operate vehicles and equipment, read instructions and follow directions, read maps and small print, detect subtle shades of color; hearing adequate to distinguish mechanical noises, converse on radio, telephone and in person at distances of up to 50 feet, and detect unusual sounds; voice volume and speech clarity to command during an emergency; body mobility adequate to operate emergency equipment and perform required duties; stamina to perform administrative functions and to meet physical and mental demands during an emergency; use of hands and fingers adequate for operation of special equipment and weapons, writing, typing and computer related functions; ability to lift heavy equipment, as needed in emergency conditions.

Intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple and power grasping and fine manipulation; bend, squat and kneel during inspection of crime scene or conducting building searches; climb stairs and/or ladders while in the field; twist while making arrests; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation; run and walk; use telephone, and communicate through written means; continuously wear utility belt and other police equipment of 30 pounds; and intermittently carry weight of 100 pounds or less.

About the Team 

Join the San Bruno Police Department, a professional and progressive agency highly respected by the community. Our team is dedicated to public safety, community service, and fostering a positive impact through collaboration and integrity.  

About this Role 

The Entry-Level Police Officer position is an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in beginning a meaningful career in law enforcement. This position does not require any prior law enforcement experience. Selected candidates will receive full compensation while attending the Police Academy and participating in the Field Training Program. Duties include city patrols, emergency response, criminal investigations, arrests, traffic enforcement, community interaction, and various assignments designed to ensure public safety. 

San Bruno Police Department provides opportunities for career advancement and specialization, including roles such as Detective, K9 Handler, Motorcycle Officer, School Resource Officer, SWAT, Hostage Negotiator, Narcotics Officer, DEA Task Force Agent, and more. 

How to Succeed in This Role 

• Learn and apply laws, ordinances, and department policies effectively.  
• Provide exceptional service when assisting the public with inquiries and concerns.  
• Work collaboratively with other departments and law enforcement agencies.  
• Maintain accurate records and reports with attention to detail.  
• Adapt to different situations, from office work to field investigations.  
• Stay composed under pressure and handle stress professionally. 

Ideal Candidate 

The ideal candidate is a motivated, service-oriented professional who:  

• Has experience in a customer-facing role and an interest in law enforcement.  
• Possesses strong written and verbal communication skills.  
• Demonstrates excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.  
• Builds positive relationships with community members and coworkers.  
• Can manage time efficiently and maintain performance under pressure.  
• Embraces diversity and respects different cultural backgrounds.  
• Is proactive, detail-oriented, and able to handle sensitive information with discretion. 

Benefits 

San Bruno offers competitive benefits including: 

• CalPERS retirement formula of 3% @ 50 for classic members or 2.7% @ 57 for new members
• Education incentive pay up to 8.5%
• Annual accruals of 10-23 vacation days based on years of service, 14.5 holidays and 12 sick days
• Opportunity for bilingual incentive pay up to 2.5%
• Annual uniform allowance
• Deferred compensation (457) Plans  
• Medical, dental and vision benefits provided with employee contribution
• Life Insurance equal to one year’s annual salary provided at no cost
• Long-term disability insurance provided at no cost
• Home loan assistance program
• Section 125 Flexible Benefit Plan
• Tuition reimbursement 

Qualifications 

• High school diploma or equivalent (2-year or 4-year degree preferred). 
• Must be at least 21 years of age. 
• No felony convictions. 
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Alien eligible and applied for citizenship. 
• Valid California Driver’s License. 
• Passing score of 48 on PELLETB and WTSB score of 320 within the last year. 
• Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation. 

How to Apply 

Interested applicants must apply online at
BambooHR. This recruitment is continuous. The City of San Bruno utilizes a merit-based selection system. Such a system is competitive and based on broad outreach efforts and equal opportunity for qualified applicants to take part in a process designed to determine the qualifications, fitness and ability of competitors to perform duties of the position. 

Applicants selected to move forward in the process may be asked to participate in any combination of the following (at any phase of the selection process): a written examination, job related exercise, physical test or job simulation, phone interview, in-person or video interview(s), and/or web-based testing.  

Successful candidates will be required to complete an extensive background investigation which includes completion of a Personal History Questionnaire, and DOJ and FBI Live Scan clearance.  

The City of San Bruno is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. 

The City of Emeryville is currently seeking a professional, collaborative, and ethical leader to serve as the next Police Captain. The Police Captain serves as second in command of the department and is responsible for overseeing daily operations, implementing policies, setting departmental goals, and managing a team of officers and professional staff. The leadership role involves a broad range of law enforcement duties, including the protection of life and property, the enforcement of laws and ordinances, crime prevention, and conducting investigations.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS POSITION, PLEASE CLICK THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT URL OR JOB PDF BELOW.

Join the Belmont Police Department

A Career You Can Be Proud Of – Make a Difference

Police Officer Recruit
Annual Salary: $84,161

As a Police Officer Recruit, you’ll be paid while attending the police academy—with the full support of the department as you complete your training.
 

We’re looking for individuals who are ready to serve the Belmont community and build a meaningful career in law enforcement. The Belmont Police Department is based in the center of the San Francisco Peninsula, just outside Silicon Valley. We’re proud of our strong commitment to public service and our long-standing tradition of service.

Once you complete the academy and become a sworn officer, you’ll have the opportunity to grow into a variety of specialized assignments, including:

• Detective

• SWAT

• K-9 Unit

• Field Training Officer

• Traffic/Motorcycle Officer

• School Resource Officer

• Hostage Negotiation Unit

• Firearms Instructor

• Honor Guard

• Defensive Tactics Instructor

• Evidence Technician

The City of Belmont is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Applicants with a disability who may require special accommodation in any phase of the application or selection process should advise Human Resources immediately,  lkirby@belmont.gov or (650) 595-7452

Police Officer

Description:  Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work, controls traffic flow and enforces state and local regulations. Some essential duties are:

• Responds to calls for service and takes appropriate action to resolve problems
• Renders assistance to citizens in distress
• Initiates investigation of criminal or suspicious activity
• Makes arrests, issues citations, and gives warnings when appropriate
• Enforces all laws without bias
• Conducts business license checks
• Promotes crime prevention and disseminates security information
• Testifies accurately and honestly in court

Qualifications: Must either be currently employed as a sworn Peace Officer in California and have successfully passed an FTO program, or have completed a Certified POST Basic Academy.

Education: Graduation from a U.S. High School or equivalent is required.  Additional education at the college level is preferred.

Licenses:  Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license by the time of hire, and ability to maintain the valid license.

Physical Requirement: Meet standards of adequate physical stature, endurance and agility. Vision: • 20/100 correctable to 20/30, with adequate depth perception and color vision. If soft contacts are worn, no limit on uncorrected distance visual acuity provided soft lenses have been worn for at least six months prior to the physical examination.

Background: • As part of the selection process, successful candidates will undergo a stringent background investigation which will include: confirming all information provided by the candidates, a polygraph test, fingerprinting, psychological and medical examinations, including a drug screening. Candidates may be disqualified at any point in this process. Felony Convictions: • State and Federal Law require that all Police Officers be free from felony conviction and domestic violence. Citizenship: • Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or resident aliens that are eligible and have applied for U.S. Citizenship.

SALARY:  Step A ($120,598.79) to Step E ($146,552.90) annually. Officers can earn up to an additional 27.5% above the base salary through qualifying incentives, such as specialty pay (5%), evening differential (5%), bilingual pay (5%), Master Officer pay (2.5%), and Master's degree incentive (10%). This results in potential annual compensation of approximately $153,763 at Step A to approximately $186,851 at Step E. 

Applications are being accepted for the position of Police Recruit with the City of South San Francisco. 

CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT

As a continuous recruitment, please ensure timely and complete submission of employment application and supporting documents. This recruitment is to establish an eligible list for anticipated future vacancies.

Please note: This job posting is for recruit/entry-level applicants and NOT for lateral-transfer, academy graduates, and academy attendees.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN.

THE DEPARTMENT:

The City of South San Francisco has 83 sworn and 35 civilian positions. The Department’s philosophy is one of participative management, with a high degree of emphasis on training and education. It employs team and community-oriented policing and problem-solving concepts and recognizes the importance of staying contemporary with technological advances. The Department acknowledges that the responsibility for public safety and the quality of life in our neighborhood is a responsibility share with the whole community. 

A new state-of-the-art Police Department building and 9-1-1 Communications Center was built at 1 Chestnut Avenue, across the road from the former police building. The new Police Building includes a large training room for defensive tactics, a dedicated indoor firearms range, and progressive construction incorporating the latest in Police Station design concepts.  The 9-1-1 Communications center has the latest communications and dispatching technologies to provide improved service and response to South San Francisco residents. 

SSFPD Recruitment Video

Under general supervision of a Police Sergeant, the non-sworn Community Service Aide provides technical police services in crime prevention, crime investigation, and crime response which do not require full police powers and assists police officers in the maintenance of law and order.

CLASS CHACTERISTICS
The Community Service Aide is a journey-level classification, fully competent to independently perform a variety of patrol and special assignment support duties. A Community Service Aide may be assigned to an organizational unit including Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS) and Investigations. This classification has clear guidelines to help with independent decision-making, and supervision is available when unusual or complex situations arise.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES (illustrative only):

• Receive and transmit calls for service over the police radio.
• Issue vehicle parking and registration citations.
• Mark, arrange tow, and maintain files for abandoned vehicles; cite vehicle/owner for violation after a given period of time of being marked.
• Direct traffic at major injury collisions, chemical spills, malfunctioning traffic signals, and special events.
• Drive a marked police vehicle; transport children to foster care facilities, citizens including stranded motorists, and city staff; deliver messages, property, and evidence as dispatched to court, citizens, or other agencies.
• Interview witnesses or others involved search for, collect, and identify evidence; and write reports for crimes with no suspect, lost and found cases, and non-injury collisions.
• Engage in general patrol observation; report any suspicious activity to dispatch and patrol officers.
• Patrol and enforce animal regulation laws and ordinances, which include receiving and investigating complaints and reports regarding stray, dangerous, unwanted or improperly controlled dogs, livestock and other animals; answering emergency calls and investigating persons bitten and quarantining the animal; and impounding, transporting and giving first aid to animals.
• Verify and certify mechanical violations receiving a citation have been corrected.
• Search files for information to aid in apprehending a criminal, returning lost property, determining the disposition of a vehicle and other problem resolution.
• Assist in the processing of evidence to include crime scene photography, sketching, video, evidence collection, and preservation as well as other duties associated with evidence processing. Assist in routine equipment/vehicle maintenance.
• Assist with clerical functions such as entering data and conducting file searches on the computer and typing filing, and form completion.
• Provide municipal code updates and additions for best practices and law changes.
• Coordinate training of both current employees (CPT) and new employees (FTO).
• Testify in court.
• Inspect and clean the holding facilities and radio-equipped vehicles in order to maintain health/safety standards.
• Search and/or obtain specimens from same-sex prisoners.
• Performs related work as required.

Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving (COPPS):

• Perform community outreach.
• Assist, participate, and support community events (e.g., Shop with a Cop Coffee with Cops, National Night Out, Summer Sandlot etc.).
• Assist with the neighborhood watch program/meetings.
• Assist with COPPS unit projects.
• Liaison with Youth and Family Services (YFS).
• Performs related work in COPPS as required.

Investigations:

• Ensure registration of habitual sex and narcotic offenders are complete and organized.
• Attend a basic POST approved Crime Scene Investigation course and other applicable, advanced trainings.
• Assist with the collection and preservation of evidence to include taking crime scene photographs, searching and dusting for latent fingerprints, crime scene diagrams, laser scanning of crime scenes, and attending autopsies. Arrange for proper identification of evidence.
• Assist Detectives with basic investigative follow-up (e.g. no identified suspect fingerprint results, gather surveillance footage, etc.)
• Performs related work in Investigations as required.

Additional 3.5% salary increases scheduled for January 2026

Join a department that values your experience, supports your growth, and gives you the opportunity to truly make a difference. Located on the San Francisco Peninsula and bordering Silicon Valley, the Belmont Police Department is known for its strong community relationships and proud Tradition of Service.

Enhance Your Compensation with Specialized Roles

We recognize the skills and commitment that come with specialized roles. Officers in these assignments receive additional compensation:

• Detective / School Resource Officer – 2.5% of base salary

• Motorcycle Officer – 2.5% of base salary

• Field Training Officer – 2% of base salary

• Bilingual Pay – Up to $150/month

• K-9 Handler – Receive 7 hours of overtime per pay period

• IT Super User – 5% of base salary

The City of Belmont is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Applicants with a disability who may require special accommodation in any phase of the application or selection process should advise Human Resources immediately, lkirby@belmont.gov or (650) 595-7452