Police Officer - Lateral (2026)

PLEASE NOTE: Do not apply to this position if you are not a current or previous Law Enforcement Officer. This is not a Police Recruit position. If you are an out-of-state lateral, you must obtain a POST waiver prior to your hire date. Please follow the link for more information or to apply for a POST waiver: Under general supervision, this position will perform law enforcement and crime prevention work; control traffic flow and enforce state and local traffic regulations; perform investigative work; and do related work as assigned. Selection Process Oral Panel Appraisal Interview: Appraisal of general experience, education, judgment, problem solving ability and communication skills. Highly qualified candidates continue. Background Appraisal Interview: Completion and review of detailed Personal History Statement. Candidates meeting basic criteria continue with a background investigation. Comprehensive Background Investigation: Detailed investigation of the candidate's personal history and suitability for employment as a law enforcement officer based on POST job dimensions, including a required lie detection polygraph screening. Captains' Interview: Personal interviews with the Captain of Field Operations and the Captain of Support Operations. Final Steps: Psychological and medical evaluations before hire. The Chief of Police may select or appoint any individual who has successfully completed the process. Appointments are probationary for one year. Responsibilities Patrol city on radio, car or on foot; answer calls for the protection of life and property, and enforcement of city, county, and state laws. Conduct preliminary and follow‑up investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, holdups, vehicle accidents, death, and other criminal incidents. Make arrests; interview victims, complainants, and witnesses; interrogate suspects; gather and preserve evidence; testify and present evidence in court. Contact and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies regarding crime investigation and offender apprehension. Prepare reports of arrests made, investigations conducted, and unusual incidents observed. Serve warrants and subpoenas. Stop drivers violating traffic laws; issue citations and make arrests as necessary; check buildings for physical security. Receive, search, book, fingerprint, and transport prisoners. Direct traffic at fire, special events, and other emergencies or congested situations. Administer first aid in emergency situations. Participate as an investigative officer in a juvenile delinquency program and related investigations as assigned by the Police Chief. Maintain contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserve good relationships with the general public. Ability To Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents and places. Use and care for firearms. Think and act quickly in emergencies, and judge situations and people accurately. Learn, understand, and interpret laws and regulations. Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports. Learn standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system. Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Understand and carry out oral and written directions. Meet standards of physical stature, endurance, and agility established by the city. Special Requirements Meet standards established for peace officers as defined by California Government Code Section 1031. Possess an appropriate California Driver's License. Obtain a Peace Officers Standards and Training Basic Certificate. #J-18808-Ljbffr