POSITION SUMMARY:
Under general supervision, the Police Officer performs a variety of law enforcement, crime prevention, and public service duties; controls traffic flow, enforces State and local traffic regulations; and performs additional related tasks as assigned. This position will serve the public in traffic enforcement, patrol operations, and community-oriented policing assignments. Specialty assignments include Investigative Services, Auto Theft, School Resource Officer, Motorcycle Officer, SWAT, Hostage Negotiations, Tactical Response, and K-9 Officer positions.
The Police Officer position may be filled by an entry-level applicant. Entry Level applicants will be sent to a POST-approved academy upon appointment and enter into the field training program immediately upon graduation from a POST-approved academy.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- KNOWLEDGE OF:
The City of Los Altos geographical area, demographic make-up, government structure, and current challenges faced by the community. The candidate should have an understanding of the local community’s expectations with regard to public safety services and current challenges facing the city. The candidate should understand modern police methods and procedures, as well as community oriented policing and problem solving, and have an overall understanding of current events and issues surrounding the law enforcement profession as a whole.
- SKILL & ABILITY TO:
Observe and accurately remember names, faces, numbers, incidents and places; learn and interpret laws, regulations, policies and procedures; carry out oral and written directions; analyze situations and make quick decisions requiring sound judgment; communicate situations; operate a variety of specialized police department equipment including computerized telecommunications and dispatch equipment; become proficient in self-defense techniques and in the care and use of firearms; maintain level of knowledge and physical condition required for satisfactory job performance; establish and maintain accurate records; prepare concise, comprehensive reports; communicate effectively; act with resourcefulness, courtesy and initiative; exercise independent judgment; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
- EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for citizenship
- Possession of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required
- An Associate Degree or completion of sixty (60) semester units of college level courses is highly desirable
- Must possess a valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
- Must provide verification of the following test results (Verification must be provided on agency letterhead where test was administered, must include test results, and tests must have been completed within 1 year of application date):
- Must have completed the California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB)
- Must have successfully completed the California POST physical agility test (known as the Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB)
- Must be able to successfully complete a 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or fewer
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE POSSESSES THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS:
Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills, ability to multi-task, and a can-do attitude; communicates effectively and proactively, both verbally and in writing; enjoys working in a small town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / GENERAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Requires work, which may be strenuous and hazardous; includes working rotating shifts, as well as weekends and holidays.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The salary range for this position ranges from $109,308.45 up to $132,865.10 annually. Placement within the range will be DOE. This is a full-time, non-exempt position represented by the Los Altos Peace Officer’s Association.
The benefits package offered by the City includes:
- Retirement:
- CalPERS retirement plan for Classic I members is 3% @ 50 with employee paying a contribution of 9%
- CalPERS retirement plan for Classic II members is 3% @ 55 with employee paying a contribution of 9%
- For new CalPERS members, retirement benefits are pursuant to the California Public Employee’s Retirement Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 will have a retirement formula of 2.7% @ 57 with employee paying a contribution of 13%
- Health Plans: Choice of HMO or PPO plans through CalPERS Health with most family plans covered at 100%.
- Dental/Vision: City also offers a dental and vision reimbursement plan.
- City-paid life insurance of $50,000; additional life insurance purchase option
- Quality of Life Wellness Benefit $1,300 Annually
- Flexible Spending Plan: Dependent care and health care reimbursement plan available
- Deferred Compensation: Voluntary participation in either Nationwide or ICMA-RC
- Holidays: 13 annual holidays, plus 2 float days OR holiday compensation
- Vacation: Starting at 10 days annually
- Sick Leave: Allowance of 12 days annually
- Employment Assistance Program
APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A complete City application, Cover Letter, and Resume must be received. The recruitment will remain open until filled.
SELECTION PROCESS:
The applicants most closely matching the City's desired qualifications and organizational needs will be invited to participate in the oral board interview process. Following the initial oral board interview, a following departmental interview may be scheduled. Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, including a polygraph examination, pre-employment physical and mental health evaluation.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.
LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER:
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.
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