Community Service Officer

City of Box Elder•Box Elder, SD

About The Position

Welcome to Box Elder, South Dakota - a community that truly feels like home. Nestled between the rolling prairie and the scenic Black Hills, Box Elder offers the best of both worlds: peaceful small‑town living with easy access to adventure. Conveniently located just east of Rapid City along Interstate 90, the city is also proud to be home to Ellsworth Air Force Base, which plays a vital role in the local economy and adds to the strong sense of community. Box Elder blends military and civilian life seamlessly, creating a diverse, welcoming atmosphere where people from all backgrounds come together. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the area year‑round, with the Black Hills to the west and Badlands National Park nearby-making hiking, camping, and exploration part of everyday life. Founded in 1907 as a charming whistle stop, Box Elder has grown into one of the fastest‑growing cities in South Dakota. With an impressive average growth rate of 5% each year, it continues to evolve while holding on to its close‑knit character. Whether you're seeking opportunity, natural beauty, or a place to put down roots, Box Elder offers a vibrant future and a place to belong. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.

Requirements

High School diploma or G.E.D.
Must be 21 years of age or will be 21 years of age within six (6) months of date of application.
Must not have been convicted of a felony or domestic violence.
Driver's license.
Principles and techniques of public relations.
City, state, and federal laws, statutes, ordinances, and court decisions related to activities.
Behavior and handling of common domestic or wild animals.
Methods and equipment used in the care and control of animals.
Safety and security policies and procedures.
First aid and basic CPR methods.
City geography.
Standard office practices and procedures, including filing and the operation of standard office equipment.
Communicating effectively in oral and written forms.
Techniques for dealing with a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
Analyzing situations quickly and objectively.
Handling, capturing and controlling animals humanely and effectively under stressful or emergency circumstances.
Assessing animal behavior and making effective decisions regarding handling or capturing the animal.
Identifying symptoms and behaviors associated with common animal diseases.
Coping with adverse situations firmly, courteously and with respect for individual rights.
Operating vehicle safely and effectively in normal and emergency situations.
Traversing terrain safely, understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Preparing clear concise and accurate reports.
Establishing effective working relationships with departmental personnel, public law enforcement agencies, community groups and general public.
Contributing effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.

Responsibilities

Responds to calls for service, belated thefts and burglaries, civil issues, community concerns, hit and run accidents, accidents, runaway juveniles, and to assist Police Officers with non-emergency calls.
Performs community outreach and education activities.
Patrols the city to detect and deter crime and to provide services to citizens; informs supervisors of dangerous or emergency situations.
Investigates animal-related incidents; collects evidence; prepares case files and testifies in court.
Maintains logs of calls and services provided.
Issues warnings or citations for violations of local ordinances and state statutes; testifies in court as needed.
Coordinates activities with community groups and organizations.
Assists motorists.
Provides traffic direction as needed for events such as parades, funerals, events, and school crossings.
Assists and provides appropriate first aid when necessary.
Contributes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
Operates a motor vehicle in a safe and effective manner; maintains cleanliness and appearance of inside and outside of patrol vehicle.
Utilizes standard law enforcement equipment, including a computer, in the course of the work.
Promotes and supports the overall mission of the City by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.