Police Officers & Law Enforcement Officers

Police Officer

Under general supervision, police officers enforce laws and ordinances, prevent crime, protect life and property, maintain order, investigate crimes, accidents, vandalism, and detain persons suspected of criminal behavior; and emphasize community-based policing, community interaction and collaborative problem solving and perform related work as required.

The Police Officer is the journey level class in the Police Officer series in which incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned law enforcement duties and responsibilities under general supervision. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Police Sergeant in that the latter is responsible for the performance of the more complex and difficult tasks, for making command decisions in the field and for the supervision of assigned personnel and activities.

Works under the direct supervision of Police Sergeant or higher-ranking position depending upon assignment. Patrols assigned areas by car, foot, or motorcycle; makes arrests, issues citations, serves subpoenas, and warrants; answers complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code and local ordinance violations; performs surveillance activities; conducts chemical, drug and alcohol testing; Performs selective enforcement when assigned, responds to radio messages or telephone instruction; appears in court on and off duty as the arresting officer; counsels and educates the community; Provides assistance, information and responds to questions in collaboration with staff, citizens and public safety agencies as appropriate.

Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations and associations, City management and staff and the public.

Graduation from high school or equivalent, or have attained a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university. Graduate from a P.Basic Police Academy. Must obtain and maintain a valid Basic Peace Officer's Standards and Training (P.Must possess a California Class C driver's license showing proof of insurance and a satisfactory driving record required at time of appointment and throughout employment in this position. English/Spanish bilingual skills highly desirable. Must be 21 years of age at the time of application. Per Section 13651 PC: must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Background, fingerprinting, polygraph examination, and medical and psychological clearance required.

Height and weight correlations must be in proper proportion according to current medical standards. Visual acuity of 20/70 in each eye correctable to 20/30 in each eye. Knowledge of: the organization, operation, rules and regulations of the Police Department; principles and techniques of police administration including traffic control, crime prevention, crowd disturbances and delinquency; laws, ordinances and regulations affecting the work of the Department including custody of prisoners, arrest and court procedures; technical and administrative phases of crime prevention and law enforcement, including investigation and identification, patrol, traffic control and safety, record keeping and care and custody of persons and property; community policing policies and philosophy; community relations; governmental structure/organization of the City of South Gate and interrelations of the Police Department; principles and practices of personnel management, supervision and leadership.

Ability to: read and understand departmental policies, rules, instructions, laws, regulations and police literature; ability to interact tactfully, effectively and in a positive manner with City Officials, Officials of other organization, members of other agencies, community organizations, community leaders, the media and the public; Skill in the operation of a variety of office equipment, including computer; ability to type 25 words per minute net.

An employee assigned a City vehicle must acknowledge receipt and understanding of City Administrative Regulations covering the use of City vehicles.

The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in the office and moderately loud when outdoors. Incumbents are occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions, traffic, dust, gas, fumes and chemicals.