COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICER

Under general supervision, to perform a variety of law enforcement support duties in the capacity of a non-sworn, non-peace officer; to respond in a non-emergency manner to calls not requiring immediate law enforcement response, including automobile accidents and property crimes; and perform related work as required.

Performs complex paraprofessional field and office support work that require application of knowledge of law enforcement policies and procedures; prepares crime, incident, and collision reports not requiring the authority of a sworn peace officer; gathers, analyzes, and evaluates facts and evidence, and reaches sound conclusions; issues citations for parking violations and completes vehicle impound procedures; uses a two-way radio for routine and emergency communication and to report irregular or hazardous conditions; provides traffic control and assistance at emergency scenes and civic events; interviews victims, witnesses, and other parties; takes and properly saves evidentiary photographs; prepares detailed reports, letters, and other routine office correspondence; completes logs and records; presents testimony in depositions and court proceeding as necessary; acts as a liaison with personnel from other departments and agencies; provides information to the public; enters, maintains, and updates confidential information in case files; may be required to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime; drives on City business.

• Knowledge of – principles, practices, and procedures of a modern law enforcement agency; applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, rules and regulations; investigative procedures and practices; principles and practices of professional and effective customer service; spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

• Skill in – operating modern computers and related software; preparing clear, concise, and accurate reports and documents with all required supporting information and materials; personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability; testifying credibly in court and giving depositions when required.

• Ability to – read, interpret, apply, and explain applicable public safety laws, regulations, department policies, and the California Vehicle Code (CVC); provide support to sworn police personnel; conduct investigations and solicit information; effectively respond to questions and inquiries about department policies; explain a variety of parking regulations when requested; issue citations when violations are observed; analyze situations and respond with a reasonable course of action; maintain a rational and calm demeanor in assessing problems and determining the course of action in emergency or stressful situations; maintain accurate records; prepare clear and concise written reports; follow oral and written directions, instruction, and orders; complete research and evaluate data and comprehensive reports; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; make independent judgement and decisions based on standard policy and procedures; establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, and the public.

Education/Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent and one year experience in law enforcement, code enforcement, police administrative support work, or a recognized police explorer or cadet program involving frequent public contact. 

Age: Must be at least 18 years of age at time of appointment.

Special Conditions & Requirements: Must be able to work outside of normal work hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime as service needs dictate.

License & Certificates: A valid California Class “C” driver’s license or equivalent at time of appointment. State of California Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) Less than Full Access, and Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Accident Investigation Training certificates within six months of appointment. All required licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment in this classification.

Desirable Qualifications: An associate degree in administration of justice, criminal justice, or a closely related field preferred. Work experience with a POST-certified law enforcement agency preferred.