Police Officer (Lateral/Academy Graduate)

Salary: $87,033.80 – $111,079.63 Annually

Position Summary:

Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work; controls traffic flow and enforces state and local traffic regulations; performs investigative work; participates in and provides support and assistance to special department crime-prevention and enforcement programs; performs related duties as required.

This is the entry level classification in the professional police series requiring sworn peace officer status. Positions allocated to the Police Officer class are assigned to a number of functional areas within the Police Department; some of the duties assigned, as determined by the Chief of Police, require prior experience with the La Palma Police Department.

Essential Functions:

• Patrols City in radio equipped car, on foot, on bicycle or motorcycle; answers calls for the protection of life and property and the enforcement of City, County, and State laws; conducts preliminary and follow up investigations of disturbances, prowlers, burglaries, thefts, robberies, vehicle accidents, death, and other criminal incidents. Makes arrests as necessary; interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; interrogates suspects; gathers and preserves evidence; testifies and presents evidence in court.
• Contacts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and the investigation of offenses. Prepares reports of arrests made, activities performed, and unusual incidents observed. Checks buildings for physical security. Searches, fingerprints, and transports prisoners. Administer CPR and first aid as necessary.
• Establishes, fosters and maintains positive and harmonious working relationships with co workers, the general public, contractors, vendors, citizen groups, and elected officials.
• Assists in training and evaluating patrol personnel.
• Patrols streets during designated times to control traffic safety conditions and to enforce traffic safety laws. Observes, monitors and controls routine and unusual traffic conditions; observes conditions and events which affect traffic safety and either takes corrective actions or reports such conditions and suggestions for improvement. Responds to calls related to traffic incidents and emergencies; responds to and investigates traffic accidents. Assists and advises motorists in traffic and pedestrian safety.
• Coordinates and conducts complete and detailed investigations of crimes involving juveniles and adults, crimes against persons and property, and crimes involving vice, gaming and narcotics violations. Participates in all law enforcement activities, including enforcing local and state laws, issuing citations, making arrests, administering first aid, and transporting prisoners. Performs undercover and surveillance activities.
• Prepares investigative reports and case information; provide evidence and testimony in court; answers questions from the public concerning local and State laws, procedures and Police Department activities.
• Interviews victims, complainants, witnesses and suspects; collects, preserves and maintains found property, property for safe keeping, and evidence that is involved with suspected crimes; serves warrants and subpoenas.
• Develops and maintains positive relationships with the public, including informants and contacts which may be helpful in criminal investigations.

Requirements:

• Graduation from high school or G.E.D. is required.
• No prior police experience required for entry level, however, entry level applicants must possess a valid POST Certificate or must have completed an approved POST Academy within the last three years.
• Possession of or ability to obtain an appropriate California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record.