Police Officer (Lateral)

Job Description:

Police Officer (Lateral)

Description

Position Description

RECRUITMENT OVERVIEW

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Police Officer with our department.

We are currently recruiting Lateral Police Officers. To be considered, applicants must possess a valid "Basic" certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).

This is a "continuous recruitment" which means, we will accept applications on a continuous basis. When applicants pass the interview phase, their name will be placed on our Continuous Police Officer (Lateral) eligibility list. As candidates are added to the list, the rank order of candidates on the list, may change. Applicants may apply and interview only one time during a six-month period.

To be eligible for this recruitment opportunity you must at the time of application, possess a Basic POST certificate and be currently working or recently employed as, a Police Officer (or Sheriff's Deputy) with another law enforcement agency. We look forward to the opportunity to consider you for a position with our department.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

APPLICATION:

To be considered for this outstanding career opportunity applicants must submit an application with detailed information in each of the following sections of the application: Education, Work Experience, Certificates and Licenses, and Skills. Resumes may be attached but will not be accepted in lieu of a complete, detailed application.

PERSONAL HISTORY STATEMENT/BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION:

Peace Officers are responsible for protecting and serving the public and are entrusted with substantial authority to carry out those responsibilities. As such, the California Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) requires that the history of peace officer applicants be thoroughly investigated to make sure that nothing in their background is inconsistent with performing peace officer duties.

Applicants are required to attach a completed POST Personal History Statement (PHS) to their application. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.

To obtain a copy of the POST Personal History Statement, log onto: www.post.ca.gov/forms

1. Download Form #: POST 2-251* Personal History Statement - Peace Officer.
2. Save it to your computer.
3. Fill out the PHS completely and then upload it as an "attachment" to your application.

Signatures and initials are not required at this time. If selected for the position, you will be asked to sign, date, and initial your PHS in the presence of our background investigator.

*Applicants must submit POST 2-251 Version 1/2023 - Earlier versions of the form will not be accepted.

APPLICATION REVIEW:

Applicants that meet the minimum requirements for the position will be invited to a panel interview.

PANEL INTERVIEW:

The interview will consist of questions regarding the applicants' education, experience, interest, and qualifications to determine suitability for law enforcement service. This is a continuous recruitment therefore, interviews will be conducted periodically.

PERSONAL HISTORY STATEMENT (PHS) REVIEW:

A preliminary review of applicants' PHS will be conducted to ensure that nothing in their background is inconsistent with performing peace officer duties. Applicants must receive a score of 3 or greater (using a 5 point scale) to pass the PHS review phase.

ELIGIBILITY LIST:

To be placed on the eligibility list, applicants must receive a panel interview score of 70% or greater and pass the preliminary review of their PHS with a score of 3 or greater.

Candidates will be placed on the eligibility list in rank order. The rank order is established by the panel interview score. This a continuous recruitment with scores added to the list periodically. Therefore, a candidates rank on the list may change as additional names are added to the list. Candidates will remain on the eligibility list for a period of up to twelve months and are eligible to be certified to the "Chiefs' Interview" phase on two occasions during that time period.

CHIEF'S INTERVIEW:

Candidates will advance to the Chief's Interview in rank order.

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION & MEDICAL EXAMINATION:

California Government Code 1031(f) requires all California peace officers to be free from any emotional, or mental condition that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Peace officers must also be free from any physical condition that might adversely affect the exercise of peace officer powers.

As a condition of employment, candidates recommended for the position must pass a psychological evaluation and medical examination.

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Tulare Police Department is a progressive and innovative department that works collaboratively with community members and groups, business leaders, and various public and private agencies, to address crime, the underlying causes of crime, and the overall quality of life in our community.

The department is comprised of three very distinct divisions that work collectively for the safety of the community and our many visitors throughout the year. The divisions of Patrol, Investigations, and Administration are comprised of individual units that are trained and equipped to handle calls for service and investigations ranging from minor to the very complex.

We engage in various community policing strategies designed to build trust within the community and the department through open communication, empowerment, and partnerships with internal and external stakeholders so that together, we can solve community problems in creative ways.

Our officers adopt multiple roles, including law enforcer, public servant, and social worker in the performance of their duties. Balancing these many, often conflicting roles and knowing which role is appropriate at any given moment, requires keen decision-making, judgment and adaptability.

As a leader in public service, we are committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion in our recruitment, hiring and retention practices. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain a talented and dedicated workforce where people of diverse races, genders, religions, cultures, political affiliations, and lifestyles thrive.

If you are a talented individual with a diverse background and willingness to be visible, accessible and accountable to the people you serve, we invite you to apply for a position with our department.

The City of Tulare is a vibrant and steadily growing community with a population of 67,834, located in the heart of California’s Central Valley. The City provides a full-range of services to our citizens. The organization, staffed with 368 full-time employees, enjoys a culture of fiscal conservatism, collaboration, teamwork and dedication to public service and our community.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of law enforcement, community policing, and crime prevention work, including patrol, traffic, narcotics, motorcycle, crime prevention, school resource, investigations, and the protection of life and property; maintains good community relations and provides information and assistance to the public; enforces Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and ordinances; assists in the preparation of cases and testifies in court; serves in specialized departmental roles as assigned; and performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from a Police Sergeant. Exercises no direct supervision of staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This sworn, working-level law enforcement class performs all non-supervisory 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 community policing, narcotics, K-9, motorcycle, crime prevention, school resource, and investigations are included. Incumbents are required to be armed while on duty and may be assigned to work in uniform or plain clothes. Shift schedules and job assignments are changed periodically to ensure the maximum delivery of effective police services. This class is distinguished from Police Corporal in that the latter is the first lead level in this sworn class series.

Examples of Essential Functions

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)

When performing duties in the patrol assignment:

• Patrols the City within an assigned area in a radio dispatched automobile to secure life and property, observe situations, observes and investigates unusual conditions in facilities, property or other areas, report suspicious or criminal activity, hazardous conditions and deter crime by providing high visibility.
• Analyzes crime scenes and gathers or directs the collection of data and evidence; writes notes and prepares reports and case files.
• Performs a variety of community policing duties to maintain a highly visible presence within the community for the purpose of deterring crime, maintaining good community relations, and providing assistance to the public, including speaking before various civic and community groups, patrolling assigned divisions by foot, bicycle or vehicle, and performing other related duties as required.

When performing duties in the traffic assignment:

• Observes, monitors and controls routine and unusual traffic situations; stops and warns drivers or issues citations as appropriate; assists motorists with inoperable vehicles and arranges for immediate removal of stranded vehicles if they are stolen or a hazard; provides direction and traffic control in accident or incident situations, special events, funerals, or other congested situations.
• Responds to and investigates non-injury and injury accidents including hit and run collisions.
• Enforces speed utilizing radar and LIDAR; conducts DUI saturation patrols and check points; assists in special campaigns and operations including seatbelt, car seat, and identifying unlicensed/suspended license drivers.
• Verifies correction and signs off mechanical citations; releases stored vehicles.
• May conduct bi-annual motorcycle certifications of the traffic unit.

When performing duties in the investigations assignment:

• Conducts comprehensive investigations into felony and high level crimes, including computer related crimes, as assigned including determining and conducting surveillance activities and coordinating and maintaining crime scene activities.
• Secures crime scenes and evidence; interviews suspects, victims and witnesses; collects and preserves evidence; performs complete investigations and/or cooperates with other law enforcement agencies providing investigative and case development support.
• May serve on special committees such as inter-agency Drug Task Forces including Narcotics Investigations, Gang Enforcement Team, and other organizations.

When performing duties in the School Resource Officer assignment:

• Acts as liaison and resource between department and school systems, students; assists and counsels youth; assists and maintains relationships with parents, school authorities, community and other officers.
• Presents educational programs such as D.A.R.E. Program, gang awareness, drug awareness, internet safety, etc.; assists school officials in enforcement of regulations; coordinates special programs as required.
• Provides oversight of juveniles and delinquents; interprets law to school officials and parents; confers with school administrators to identify and discuss criminal and public safety issues; works to resolve cases and crimes committed against or by juveniles.
• Investigates cases involving unfit homes and crimes committed against or by juveniles, including but not limited to child abuse, Department of Human Services referrals, and runaways; advises and refers juveniles to appropriate community resources as requested or as necessary.

When performing all assignments:

• Responds to a wide variety of emergency calls for service, disturbances, thefts, burglaries, vehicle accidents, domestic disputes, suspicious activities, and other incidents to protect public safety and property, resolve problems, diffuse situations, and enforce laws and ordinances; determines appropriate action; calls for assistance as needed.
• Provides emergency medical attention and requests appropriate medical assistance as necessary.
• Provides information, directions and assistance to the public in a variety of situations; takes reports and assists the public with complaints or unusual situations.
• Participates in meetings with the public representing the department’s interests and responsibilities.
• Prepares case records and reports on major activities within the jurisdiction; prepares affidavits for search warrants; serves arrest and search warrants and subpoenas as required.
• Makes arrests and serves warrants, subpoenas, and other legal documents; takes individuals into custody and may transport them for medical clearance and/or booking at a longer-term facility, as required.
• Assists the City Attorney or the District Attorney staff in preparing, documenting and developing cases and gathering information; testifies in court as required.
• Participates in continuous training to enhance law enforcement skills including but not limited to community interaction and collaborative problem solving, emergency vehicle operation, interview and investigative skills, firearms proficiency, and apprehension and arrest techniques.
• Operates as a community-based problem solver, gathers information and learns about the dynamics of the community.
• Establishes and preserve good relationships with the community; answers questions from the public concerning local and state laws, procedures, and activities of the department.
• Promotes crime prevention programs to enhance public understanding of law enforcement activities.
• Directs the activities of police support personnel and/or volunteers in office and field situations.
• Handles prisoners as called for by law.
• Prepares reports; prepares and maintains logs, records and accurate files.
• May develop, implement, and present various community education programs on a wide variety of crime prevention subjects.
• Provides educational outreach to the public to help prevent and solve crime.
• Maintains effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies and personnel.
• Assists other officers as needed.
• May serve as a field training officer for orientation and training of new officers.
• May respond to incidents involving high-risk situations, including hostages, armed suicidal subjects, clandestine drug labs, barricaded wanted subjects, civil unrest or riots, and other assignments.
• Attends briefings, meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions, and reviews publications and materials to become and remain current on principles, practices, and new developments in assigned work areas.
• Oversees the use and care of equipment used in the course of work.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Law enforcement principles, practices, and techniques related to patrol, traffic enforcement, crime scene control and investigation, protection of life and property, pursuit, apprehension and transportation of suspects.
• Investigation and identification techniques and equipment.
• Rules of evidence regarding search, seizure, and the preservation of evidence.
• Courtroom procedures and techniques for testifying.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, ordinances, court decisions, and departmental rules and regulations.
• Safety practices and equipment related to the work, including the safe use and proper care of firearms, chemical agencies, impact weapons, and tazers.
• Techniques of first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED).
• Modern office practices, methods and computer equipment.
• Computer applications related to the work.
• Problem solving and decision making skills.
• Principles and practices of effective interpersonal communication.
• English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation.
• Techniques for effectively dealing with and solving the problems presented by a variety of individuals from various socio-economic, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, in person and over the telephone, often when relations may be confrontational or stressed.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service to the public and City staff, in person and over the telephone.

Ability to:

• Learn a considerable amount of factual information regarding laws, ordinances, statutes, regulations, procedures, and apply this knowledge to the duties of the position.
• Observe accurately, recall faces, names, descriptive characteristics, facts of incidents and places.
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies and procedures, laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, records, and other written materials.
• Identify and be responsive to community issues, concerns, and needs.
• Coordinate and carry out special assignments.
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions.
• Monitor changes in laws and court decisions and apply them in work situations.
• Enter information into a computer with sufficient speed and accuracy to perform the work.
• Make sound, independent decisions in emergency situations.
• Organize own work, set priorities and meet critical time deadlines.
• Operate a motor vehicle in a safe and responsible manner under patrol and emergency conditions; act effectively and calmly in emergency situations.
• Safely and skillfully use firearms and other police equipment.
• Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment and software programs.
• Comprehend and use English effectively including producing all forms of communication in a clear, concise, and understandable manner to intended audiences.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and legal guidelines in politically sensitive situations.
• Establish, maintain, and foster effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Qualifications / Requirements

EDUCATION & 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 and one (1) year of experience working with the public. Some college-level coursework in and/or volunteer law enforcement experience are desirable.

LICENSE & CERTIFICATIONS: Applicants must posses and attach copies of each of the following to their application. Failure to do so will result in disqualification.

• Possession of a valid Class C California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Valid basic certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).
• Possession and maintenance of firearms qualification.

Special Requirements:

• Must be at least 21 years of age at time of appointment.
• Emotional stability, coping skills, judgment, flexibility, and social skills.
• Free of any bias based on race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

Additional Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; maintain P.O.S.T. physical standards, including mobility and physical strength and stamina to respond to emergency situations and apprehend suspects; vision to maintain firearms qualification and to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking on uneven terrain, climbing and descending structures to access crime scenes and to identify problems or hazards. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate police services equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work and inspect work sites. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects, as well as crime/accident suspects/victims weighing up to 150 pounds and heavier weights with the appropriate assistance.

ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS

Employees work indoors and outdoors, and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Must be able to pass a detailed background investigation. Must be able to work extended or varying shifts, weekends, and holidays or be called back in emergency situations, and work with exposure to difficult circumstances, including exposure to dangerous situations and violent individuals.

• Members of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). In accordance with the California Public Employees Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), the City of Tulare will offer the following retirement benefit (2.7% at 57) to new PERS members beginning January 1, 2013 with three years final compensation. Existing PERS members with no break in service will receive the 3.0% at 55 formula with single highest year.
  
• City pays a portion of the employee and dependent coverage costs of group medical, dental and vision insurance. An opt-out plan is also available.
  
• Term Life insurance - $7,500 coverage.
  
• Complete set of uniforms is provided and $1,100 per year is paid thereafter as a uniform allowance.
  
• Personal car program is in effect for those that meet residency policy.
  
• 10 working days vacation per year plus holiday credit. Additional days based on years of service.
  
• 12 days sick leave per year.
  
• A long-term disability insurance program is available.
  
• A mandatory wellness/fitness program.
  
• Flexible benefit program - IRS Section 125 Plan.
  
• Deferred compensation plan - 457 Plans available.
  
• Bilingual certification - an additional 2% of base salary for successful completion of city administered bilingual certification test.
  
  

Closing Date/Time: Continuous

Salary:

$74,275.44 - $90,282.60 Annually