Police Officer

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of patrol and related duties involving the prevention of crime, the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of Federal, State, and local laws and ordinances; makes investigations, assists in the preparation of cases, and testifies in court; serves in specialized departmental roles as assigned; provides information and assistance to the public; performs related work as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. No supervision of staff is exercised.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is a sworn journey-level law enforcement class that performs all assignments found in a municipal police department. While incumbents are normally assigned to a specific geographic area for patrol or traffic enforcement, all functional areas of the law enforcement field, including crime prevention, investigation, K-9, school resources, administration, and training are included. Incumbents may be assigned to work in uniform or plain clothes. Shift schedules and job assignments may be changed periodically to assure the maximum delivery of effective police service. This class is distinguished from Police Corporal in that the latter is the first lead level in this sworn class series.

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented by specialized training in law enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field. Equivalent to an Associate’s Degree and law enforcement experience is desirable.

License:

 Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

 Possession of a Basic Certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).