Police Officer Recruit

Overview Police Officer – report to general supervision, patrol an assigned area, enforce public‑safety laws, maintain order, prevent and investigate crime, and perform special assignments. Salary up to $137,467 annually with a 5% increase effective July4,2026. A $10,000 signing bonus is paid in three installments: $3,334 at hire, $3,333 after completing the Field Training Program and 18‑month probation, and $3,333 upon completing a second year of service. Responsibilities General purpose duties include patrols, enforcement of laws, incident reporting, community relations, and coordination with special assignments such as K‑9, SWAT, traffic or detective work. Distinguishing characteristics highlight the role’s independence from supervisory functions held by police sergeants. Essential Functions Enforce federal, state, and local public‑safety laws and ordinances. Patrol assigned area to detect and prevent crime. Prepare citations, arrest reports, incident forms, and scientific evidence reports. Respond to radio requests, investigate suspicious activity, and provide traffic control. Conduct preliminary investigations of disturbances, burglaries, thefts, and accidents. Question suspects, interview witnesses, and testify in court. Record written statements and manage evidence. Inspect premises, enforce alcohol licensing, and ensure public safety. Mediating disputes and monitoring parolees. Develop positive community relationships. Participate in briefings, training, and specialized programs. Receive, process, and custody prisoners; guard and transport as directed. Coordinate Reserve scheduling and training. Execute traffic enforcement and DUI monitoring; coordinate with DMV and courts. Provide field training to new officers and maintain training records. Assist K‑9 searches, training, feeding, and record keeping. Conduct detective investigations, collect evidence, and coordinate court procedures. Respond to SWAT incidents involving hostages, barricades, or threats. Investigate gang activity and testify in related cases. Work as School Resource Officer: educate students, maintain communication with school staff, and counsel students on lawful conduct. Provide escorts or guard services for public events. Qualifications Knowledge of: Police science, federal and state laws, Miranda rights, local ordinances, department policies, criminal evidence rules, investigative methods, use of police records, self‑defense techniques, radio and communication protocols, human behavior, and current policing practices. Ability to: Operate police vehicles and equipment; apply laws; prepare concise reports; solve problems; communicate effectively; maintain relationships with diverse groups; exercise judgment; remain calm under pressure; and adapt to changing situations. Required education: High school diploma or GED; up to 60 semester units in general education and police science preferred. Valid ClassC California driver’s license with good record. Successful completion of the Police Academy and P.O.S.T. certification within three years. Age 21 or older. Citizen of the United States or eligible permanent‑resident alien. Physical and Mental Demands Physically: frequent hand use, climbing, lifting up to 100lb, first aid, and self‑defense. Mentally: written and oral communication, data analysis, problem solving, and maintaining composure in dangerous situations. Work Environment Outdoor patrol in varying weather, exposure to extreme heat, smoke, dust, and loud noise. Requires protective gear such as helmet, armored vest, and earplugs. Equal Opportunity Statement The City of Buena Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, age, veteran status, or disability. Applicants must also undergo drug and alcohol testing. #J-18808-Ljbffr