Police Officer

Job Title Police Officer Position Details Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of patrol and community policing duties involving the prevention of crime, the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Responsibilities include making arrests, transporting suspects into custody, assisting in the processing of crime scenes, preserving evidence, and testifying in court. The incumbent may be armed and may work in uniform or plain clothes. Patrols the city within an assigned area in a vehicle, on foot, or bicycle. Responds to emergency calls and incidents such as disturbances, thefts, burglaries, vehicle accidents, domestic disputes, and suspicious activities. Provides information, directions, and assistance to the public and takes reports. Monitors traffic, gives citations, and directs traffic during special events. Assists crime scene activities, interviews suspects, victims, and witnesses, and collects evidence. Prepares and maintains reports, logs, and files. Operates a standard vehicle to travel to multiple locations and performs assigned tasks at each worksite. Oversees the use and care of equipment. Performs other duties as assigned. Compensation Base Pay: $39.33 - $48.29 per hour (effective July 2026: $41.30 - $50.70 per hour). Additional pay opportunities include: Overtime – Paid at time and one-half. Bilingual Pay – $100 per month. Post Certificate and Education Incentive Pay – 5% - 10%. Canine Handler – 6.75% of base pay. Field Training Officer (FTO) – 5%. Longevity Pay – From 8 years: 2.5%; 10 years: 5%; 12 years: 7.5%. Medical-in-lieu – $200/month for employee only, $350/month for employee plus one, $500/month for family. Benefits Home Buying Program – $25,000 interest‑free loan. Tuition Reimbursement – up to $4,000 per fiscal year. Holiday Pay – 14 holidays with shift personnel holiday in lieu. Vacation Leave – 80 hours per year for first 4 years; 120 hours after 4 years; 160 hours after 10 years; 200 hours after 15 years; 240 hours after 22 years. Vacation Credit – Up to 120 hours for those with 4+ years of prior public agency experience. Vacation Cash Out – Eligible employees may cash out up to 80 hours per year. Sick Leave – 96 hours per year. Health Insurance – City pays a generous portion of the CalPERS medical premium; full coverage for dental and vision. Life Insurance – $50,000 policy for employee, $1,500 policy for dependents. Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) – City contributes $100 per month. Long Term Disability – Up to 60% of base salary. EAP – Confidential employee assistance plan. Wellness Program – Access to peer support, gym, and on‑duty workout time. Uniforms – All uniforms, equipment, and dry cleaning fees are paid. Public Safety Family Counseling – For Police Department personnel. Qualifications Graduated from a California post‑basic PEACE OFFICER ACADEMY within the past 3 years; application not accepted if academy certificate will expire within 6 months of application. Knowledge of municipal law enforcement operations and procedures. Knowledge of patrol, traffic enforcement, accident investigation, crime scene processing, evidence preservation, and transportation of suspects. Familiarity with rules of evidence and search & seizure. Understanding of community demographics and geographic locations within the patrol area. Knowledge of courtroom procedures and testimony techniques. Ability to operate a motor vehicle safely under patrol and emergency conditions. Proficiency in writing clear, accurate reports and using computer applications. Strong communication skills in English, including customer service and public interaction. Capacity to make sound, independent decisions in emergency situations. Physical fitness to meet P.O.S.T. standards, including mobility, strength, and stamina. Education and Experience High school diploma equivalent. Completion of an accredited police academy. Two years of college‑level coursework in criminal justice or a related field is typical. Licenses and Certifications Valid California Class C driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record. Basic Certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). Firearms qualification and ongoing maintenance. Physical Demands Constant face‑to‑face interaction and communication with the public and co‑workers. Light to heavy lifting, with occasional lifting of 26–50+ pounds. Constant driving, sitting, standing, and walking, including uneven terrain. Frequent use of hands, including fine motor tasks such as careful handling of evidence. Frequent computer use with keyboard and mouse. Environmental Elements Work occurs indoors and outdoors, exposed to loud noise, variable temperatures, adverse weather conditions, vibrations, confined workspaces, moving vehicles, and hazardous substances such as dust, gas, chemicals, and bodily fluids. Exposure to transmissible diseases and needles is possible. Emotional, Psychological, and Mental Demands Interactions with upset staff and the public, exposure to criminal offenders, mentally ill individuals, and potentially contagious diseases. Requires constant concentration, decision making, and ability to work alone under stressful circumstances. Working Conditions Must pass a pre‑employment physical exam, drug screen, background investigation, and fingerprinting. Willingness to work extended shifts and be called back during emergencies is required. #J-18808-Ljbffr