Police Officer Trainee - Pre-Service (C-59)

City of Whittier, CA • Whittier, CA

60d

About The Position

Class specifications are only intended to present a descriptive summary of the range of duties and responsibilities associated with specified positions. Therefore, specifications may not include all duties performed by individuals within a classification. In addition, specifications are intended to outline the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into the class and do not necessarily convey the qualifications of incumbents within the position. DEFINITION: Under general supervision, learns to perform and performs tasks and duties related to the protection of public health, safety and welfare, and the enforcement of applicable federal, state, and local laws; carries out special assignments in a particular phase of police work; performs other related duties as required. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: The Police Officer Trainee is the entry-level (non-sworn) class in the police officer series that allows the incumbent to develop journey level knowledge and abilities. Incumbents generally occupy this class while attending or waiting to attend the academy. Initially, under immediate supervision, incumbents perform the more routine and less complex assignments within an established procedural framework. Incumbents are expected to perform the full scope of assigned duties. This classification is distinguished from the Police Officer classification by closer supervision and performance of less complex assignments.

Requirements

• Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for a Police Officer Trainee.
• A typical way of obtaining the required qualifications is to possess the equivalent of a high school diploma or equivalent, and be 21 years of age by the time of sworn appointment.
• Except under special circumstances, the City will terminate a Police Officer Trainee's employment if she/he fails to successfully complete the City approved police academy.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class C California driver's license.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for U.S. citizenship.
• Basic operations and standard operating procedures of a Police Department
• basic principles of crime prevention and suppression
• basic modern law enforcement methods and procedures, including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control, and investigation
• basic principles of law enforcement information systems
• methods and techniques of training and motivation may be necessary
• basic principles of mathematics
• applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations
• methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments
• standard office procedures, practices, and equipment
• modern office equipment, including a computer and applicable software
• methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing
• proper English, spelling, and grammar
• occupational hazards and standard safety practices
• Learn to gather, analyze and evaluate facts and evidence and reach sound conclusions
• act quickly, calmly, and effectively in emergency situations
• learn to enforce laws, regulations, policies, rules, and procedures
• interpret, explain, and apply applicable laws, codes, and regulations
• read, interpret, and record data accurately
• make clear and concise radio transmissions
• observe and recall names, faces, and details of incidents
• write clear, concise, and accurate reports
• understand and follow verbal and written directions
• organize, prioritize, and follow up on work assignments
• work as part of a team
• make sound decisions within established guidelines
• analyze issues and develop and implement an appropriate response
• follow written and oral directions
• observe safety principles and work in a safe manner
• work a variety of shifts as assigned
• communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
• establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Operate an office computer and a variety of word processing and software applications
• safely and effectively operate a variety of law enforcement equipment, firearms, and a police vehicle in emergency situations.

Responsibilities

• Learns to patrol assigned areas by car, foot, motorcycle, bicycle, or horse; learns to perform crime suppression and prevention activities; learns to answers special calls; conducts initial and follow-up investigations; interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; learns to answer complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code, and local ordinance violations; learns to perform surveillance activities; learns procedures for conducting chemical, drug, and alcohol testing; learns to investigate suspicious circumstances.
• Learns to enforce traffic laws; learns methods for conducting complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; may learn and assist in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; counsels and educates the community; administers first aid in cases of emergency; transports, books and is responsible for the care and custody of detained persons.
• Learns procedures to obtain and process evidence; takes written statements; prepares and/or dictates required reports and maintains investigative records; serves warrants and subpoenas; may testify in court proceedings; provides information and referrals in non-criminal situations; contacts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies as warranted.
• Responds to questions, concerns and requests for service from the general public; assists the public and answers questions; provides information as appropriate and resolves complaints.
• Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, State/ local agencies and associations, City management and staff, and the public.
• May be exposed to confidential and privileged information during the course of duties, which should be maintained as such.
• Performs other related duties as required.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: High school or GED