Community Service Officer

Position Overview The Community Service Officer (CSO) is a non‑sworn position within the City of Santa Cruz Police Department. CSOs support sworn officers by performing lower‑risk duties that help promote public safety and community engagement without carrying firearms. Key Responsibilities Patrol public areas on foot or in municipal vehicles and provide a visible police presence. Respond to low‑risk criminal and traffic incidents, investigate reports, and collect evidence. Operate police reporting systems, document incidents, and produce accurate written reports. Conduct low‑risk interviews, gather statements, and maintain investigative records. Serve as a first responder to emergencies, including vehicle collisions and medical calls. Enforce municipal code violations, issue warnings and citations, and maintain order. Assist citizens, provide information and directions, and demonstrate a uniformed presence. Present crime‑prevention information to community groups and local businesses. Participate in security inspections of public buildings and detect fire or liability hazards. Transport victims, witnesses, and prisoners as required, and assist in vehicle abatement activities. Assist with traffic control at accidents or special events, including school‑crossing guard duties. Fingerprint individuals and deliver evidence to appropriate authorities. Attend training and orientation programs and comply with all agency directives. Licensing & Certifications Valid California driver’s license with a safe driving record, maintained at all times. Completion of POST 832 PC – Powers of Arrest Course within three months of hire. Education & Experience High‑school diploma or equivalent. Applicants must have a POST PELLETB t‑score of 46 or higher. Experience or training in law‑enforcement related activities is a plus. Key Skills & Abilities Strong verbal and written communication skills for public interaction. Organizational and record‑keeping capabilities. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions accurately. Competence in operating police radio communications. Sensitivity to cultural and ethnic diversity in interactions. Proficiency in reading maps and interpreting geographic information. Technical skills for report preparation, photography, and video documentation of crime scenes. Capable of working independently and meeting deadlines; passes background, psychological, and medical examinations. Additional Requirements Wear official uniform and carry baton, chemical agent, Taser, handcuffs, and radio. Work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Attend the Community Service Officer Training Academy. Desirable Qualifications Experience or education in law‑enforcement fields. Fluency in English and Spanish. Certification in advanced first aid and CPR. Private Security Officer and Baton licenses issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Typing speed of 45 words per minute. POST 832 PC certification. Benefits & Incentives Hiring bonus of $5,000 distributed as $1,000 after Field Training Officer program, $1,500 after probation, and $2,500 at 2.5 years post‑hire. Referral incentive for employees recommending candidates, pending verification of the referring employee’s name on the application. Standard pay incentives applicable to CSO position. Application Process Complete the online application; resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a fully completed form. Attach official POST PELLETB t‑score results (46 or higher) obtained in 2025 or 2026. Applicants who meet minimum qualifications will be contacted for supplemental materials and interview stages. Immigration status: No citizenship or documentation requirements for U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents. Full citizenship, residency, and eligibility to work in the United States are required. Equal opportunity: The City of Santa Cruz is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr City-of-Santa-Cruz,-C