Job Details
Police Trainee
2024-12-02 City of Santa Maria CA Santa Maria,CA
Description:
The Police Officer position is an Individual Contributor role that provides safety, security, trust and comfort to Santa Maria residents. Their role enables the enforcement of laws and promotion of safety so that the Santa Maria community is a safe place to live, work and raise a family.
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization. This position:Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the department director. Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation. Performs other related projects and duties as assigned. Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance. DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from high school or a G.E.D.
Experience: Experience in a law enforcement environment desirable.
OR any combination of education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities to meet the above minimum requirements.
Knowledge of:
Basic English composition, grammar, and spelling; the English language; after completion of the academy, knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment; basic knowledge of applicable laws and ordinances; and principles and practices of exemplary customer service.
Ability to:
Acquire knowledge to pass the P.O.S.T. certified police academy; write clearly, accurately, concisely, legibly, and with correct English grammatical construction and spelling; read and interpret technical documents in English; communicate effectively in both oral and written form; observe, assimilate, remember, record, and recall pertinent facts and details; read maps and mapped information; apply selected knowledge (i.e., laws, statutes, court decisions, department policies, criminal investigation theories, etc.) in collecting, organizing, and analyzing a variety of information in order to decide on an appropriate and reasonable course of action; take a proactive approach to problem solving; analyze problems and have the potential to rationally and calmly take effective action in emergency and stressful situations; plan and effectively present material orally to diverse groups; deal courteously and appropriately with the public; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; develop skill in the use of firearms; effectively utilize required equipment; undergo and maintain the appropriate physical conditioning; use word processing and computer software highly desirable; learn the organization, procedures, and operating details of the City department to which assigned; attend work, as scheduled, on a regular basis, to effectively perform the position's required duties and responsibilities, collaborate with a variety of diverse interest groups in reaching a consensus for the betterment of the community; demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community, and speak Spanish highly desirable.
License:
Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver License. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and be insurable to operate City vehicles.
Special Requirements:
Minimum age of 21 years upon graduation. Weight must be in proportion to height. Vision must be within P.O.S.T. standards and normal color and depth perception. Successful completion of a background investigation, polygraph, psychological examination, physical agility test, and medical examination which includes a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Police car; police radio; in-car camera, radar gun; handgun and other weapons as required; baton; Taser, handcuffs; flashlight, breathalyzer; first aid equipment; Mobile Data Terminal (MDT); computers and related software.
ACADEMY MANDATES FOR ALL RECRUITSOn the first day of the academy, arrive in PT gear. At 8 am, we will administer a physical fitness assessment test, which will consist of:
The Allan Hancock College Law Enforcement Academy is one of the finest law enforcement basic training programs in the State of California.
SELECTION PROCESS
The completed electronic application packet will include the online application and supplemental questions, and electronic attachments of a resume, cover letter, and passing PELLETB score letter (if applicable). If a resume, cover letter and score letter are not attached your application will be considered incomplete. If you are experiencing any technical (computer related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, please call the NEOGOV help line for assistance at 1-855-###-####.
Those applicants invited to test will be notified electronically at the e-mail address provided by each candidate through application process. Therefore, it is the applicant's responsibility to provide an accurate email address and to allow their inbox to receive emails in regard to this recruitment (please check your spam/junk folder). A physical agility and PELLETB test date is anticipated to be scheduled for TBD. Failure to attend or pass the physical agility and PELLETB test will result in disqualification from the process. Oral interviews will be scheduled for TBD. The oral board will recommend a limited number of candidates to the eligibility list from which new Police Trainees may be selected.
Prior to an offer of employment, applicants must pass a thorough background investigation.
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at
Retirement
The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance
Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.
Dental Insurance
Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Vision Insurance
Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program
Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work.
Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.
Succession Planning
The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)
Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays
The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation
The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave
Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave
Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program
In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement
Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance
Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend
Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay
Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01
Do you possess a valid California Drivers License?
02
PD - Have you previously applied for the position of Police Officer with the City of Santa Maria?
03
PD - Are you currently going through the recruitment process with any other agency?
04
PD - Describe how your previous employment, experience, and education have provided you the ability to exercise seasoned judgment under stress. Please provide at least one example.
05
PD - Have any of your employers imposed any level of disciplinary action against you?
06
PD - Have you ever used illegal drugs (marijuana NOT included), including prescription drugs NOT prescribed to you? (Responding Yes to this question does not automatically disqualify you from this recruitment process.)
07
PD - If you answered Yes to Question #6, when did your use occur? What type of drug(s)? How often did you use the drug(s) and how much did you consume?
08
PD - Have you ever been terminated from any position, or resigned in lieu of termination?
09
List all vehicle accidents (and date of occurrence) that you have been involved with, regardless of fault. If none, enter N/A.
Required Question
Salary: $2,842.06 - $3,454.54 Biweekly
Location : Santa Maria, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: FY 25-00010
Department: Police Department
Division: Police - Operations
Opening Date: 08/26/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
OPPORTUNITY
Open: Continuous
Physical Agility/PELLETB Testing: Monthly
Interview Date: TBD
Anticipated Start Date: Approx. 4-5 weeks before academy start date
****Applicants for this Police Trainee recruitment may attend the early Spring 2025 or Fall 2025 academy at the Allan Hancock College Lompoc Campus.
*THIS RECRUITMENT IS FOR ALL CANDIDATES WHO HAVE NOT YET BEEN TO A BASIC CA LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY*
Please contact staff in the Training and Recruitment Bureau at 805-###-#### x2144 for specific job-related questions. If you are experiencing any technical (computer related) difficulties, please call the NEOGOV help line for technical assistance at 1-877-###-####.
The City of Santa Maria is the largest city in the Santa Barbara County (located on the central coast) with a population of over 100,000. This growing department currently has 165 sworn and non-sworn personnel. Come join our hard working and innovative team!
REQUIRED SUMITTALS
Due upon application:
- Cover letter
- Résumé
- PELLETB Score (**If you do not have a current PELLETB score of 42 or better, please attach a simple word doc requesting an opportunity to test. We will be conducting a PELLETB exam and need to know how many applicants need to test).
The Police Officer position is an Individual Contributor role that provides safety, security, trust and comfort to Santa Maria residents. Their role enables the enforcement of laws and promotion of safety so that the Santa Maria community is a safe place to live, work and raise a family.
These duties are a representative example; position assignments may vary depending on the business needs of the department and organization. This position:
- Attends P.O.S.T. certified police academy, participating in and successfully passing all mandated classes designated to develop awareness and understanding of the functions and responsibilities of Police Officers.
- Academy training may include:
- Instruction on proper handling and firing of firearms.
- Review of radio codes and applicable Penal Code, Vehicle Code and other statutory code sections.
- Overview of the court system.
- Writing and editing police reports.
- Observing law enforcement activities such as maintenance of order, crime prevention, and protection of citizens and property.
- Review of rules, regulations, and procedures.
- Developing and maintaining a high level of physical fitness.
- Learning and demonstrating competence in arrest and control techniques.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Graduation from high school or a G.E.D.
Experience: Experience in a law enforcement environment desirable.
OR any combination of education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities to meet the above minimum requirements.
Knowledge of:
Basic English composition, grammar, and spelling; the English language; after completion of the academy, knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment; basic knowledge of applicable laws and ordinances; and principles and practices of exemplary customer service.
Ability to:
Acquire knowledge to pass the P.O.S.T. certified police academy; write clearly, accurately, concisely, legibly, and with correct English grammatical construction and spelling; read and interpret technical documents in English; communicate effectively in both oral and written form; observe, assimilate, remember, record, and recall pertinent facts and details; read maps and mapped information; apply selected knowledge (i.e., laws, statutes, court decisions, department policies, criminal investigation theories, etc.) in collecting, organizing, and analyzing a variety of information in order to decide on an appropriate and reasonable course of action; take a proactive approach to problem solving; analyze problems and have the potential to rationally and calmly take effective action in emergency and stressful situations; plan and effectively present material orally to diverse groups; deal courteously and appropriately with the public; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; develop skill in the use of firearms; effectively utilize required equipment; undergo and maintain the appropriate physical conditioning; use word processing and computer software highly desirable; learn the organization, procedures, and operating details of the City department to which assigned; attend work, as scheduled, on a regular basis, to effectively perform the position's required duties and responsibilities, collaborate with a variety of diverse interest groups in reaching a consensus for the betterment of the community; demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community, and speak Spanish highly desirable.
License:
Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver License. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and be insurable to operate City vehicles.
Special Requirements:
Minimum age of 21 years upon graduation. Weight must be in proportion to height. Vision must be within P.O.S.T. standards and normal color and depth perception. Successful completion of a background investigation, polygraph, psychological examination, physical agility test, and medical examination which includes a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Police car; police radio; in-car camera, radar gun; handgun and other weapons as required; baton; Taser, handcuffs; flashlight, breathalyzer; first aid equipment; Mobile Data Terminal (MDT); computers and related software.
ACADEMY MANDATES FOR ALL RECRUITS
- You may not enter or start the academy unless you are on a FULL DUTY status.
- You cannot start the academy on a "light duty" status.
- You cannot start the academy if you have any physical limitations.
- Pull-ups (recruits are expected to do at least one pull-up)
- Sit-ups (2-minute time limit, recruits must do at least 35 sit-ups)
- Push-ups (no time limit, recruits must do at least 25 push-ups)
- 1.5-mile run (recruits must complete the run in 15 minutes or less)
- Beep test (recruits must reach stage 3)
- Failure to meet the above standards b-e, may determine the recruit's ability to continue in the academy.
The Allan Hancock College Law Enforcement Academy is one of the finest law enforcement basic training programs in the State of California.
SELECTION PROCESS
The completed electronic application packet will include the online application and supplemental questions, and electronic attachments of a resume, cover letter, and passing PELLETB score letter (if applicable). If a resume, cover letter and score letter are not attached your application will be considered incomplete. If you are experiencing any technical (computer related) difficulties or need help with attaching documents to your application, please call the NEOGOV help line for assistance at 1-855-###-####.
Those applicants invited to test will be notified electronically at the e-mail address provided by each candidate through application process. Therefore, it is the applicant's responsibility to provide an accurate email address and to allow their inbox to receive emails in regard to this recruitment (please check your spam/junk folder). A physical agility and PELLETB test date is anticipated to be scheduled for TBD. Failure to attend or pass the physical agility and PELLETB test will result in disqualification from the process. Oral interviews will be scheduled for TBD. The oral board will recommend a limited number of candidates to the eligibility list from which new Police Trainees may be selected.
Prior to an offer of employment, applicants must pass a thorough background investigation.
The following benefits vary by bargaining unit. For full benefit information please refer to the Memorandum of Understanding or compensation resolution available at
Retirement
The City of Santa Maria is a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). Your benefit factor is determined by the retirement formula, age, service credit and final compensation. Based upon your bargaining unit and hire date the benefit factor will vary.
Health Insurance
Medical Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS). There are four Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO's) and three Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's) to choose from. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
The City has a medical insurance benefit program which provides either payment towards the premium for the employee and eligible dependents, or cash payment if you and your dependent(s) already have health benefits. Evidence of major medical health insurance coverage is required for those employees who receive the cash payment. See Memorandum of Understanding for eligibility requirements.
Dental Insurance
Dental Insurance is provided to employees and eligible dependents through The Standard covering 100% of Preventive; 90% of Basic; and 60% of Major with a minimal deductible. The plan includes a Max Builder option rewarding insured employees and their dependents who use only a portion of their annual dental benefit maximum. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Vision Insurance
Vision Insurance is available to employees and eligible dependents. Coverage is through VSP and covers an annual Well Vision exam and an allowance towards prescription glasses. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Life Insurance and AD&D Coverage
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week are eligible for Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage. Supplemental life, spousal and dependent child options are also available. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
All employees working a minimum of thirty two (32) hours per week, excluding Sworn Police and Fire shall participate in the short-term and long-term disability plan with coverage up to 66 2/3% of salary. Sworn Police and Fire are covered through their respective bargaining unit.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
The City offers a flexible spending account option for Dependent Care and Health Care Expenses. With these plans, employees can choose to place a portion of their earnings into a personal reimbursement account on a pre-tax basis. Doing so lowers employees' taxable income for the year and allows them to pay for their qualified dependent care and eligible health care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Employee Assistance Program
The City provides an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through AETNA for all full and part time employees and their eligible dependents. The confidential EAP program can refer employees to professional counselors and services that can help resolve emotional health, family and work-life issues, or provide help with childcare and eldercare assistance, financial and legal services, identity theft recovery services and daily living services.
Wellness Program
Offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being. The City's Wellness Program includes ergonomic evaluations, flu shots, and Wellness Workshops during lunch and after work.
Access to the Paul Nelson Aquatics Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to the Weight room at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center for employee and immediate family members. Access to employee discounts and special offers on travel, entertainment, shopping, dining and services.
Mentorship Program
This professional development program of mentoring and job shadowing provides mentees with an opportunity to be mentored by experienced staff with the objective of developing specific skills and knowledge that will enhance the participants' leadership skills and promote professional growth.
Succession Planning
The academies are offered to all employees including those that are not yet in a supervisory role, but are interested in becoming leaders within the organization as well as our executive management team who have an interest in honing their skills and helping to prepare our future leaders. In addition to multiple leadership academies, the City offers quarterly Speaker Series, a corporate Toastmasters club available for City employees, site tours of various departments, and more.
Deferred Compensation
Employees may participate in the City's 457 Deferred Compensation Plan sponsored by either Empower or CalPERS Supplemental Income. The plan enables employees to save salary and earn interest on a tax-deferred basis. A City match is available based upon representation.
The City also provides an IRS approved 401(a) plan sponsored by Empower for managers represented by Non-Represented Full-Time Management & Confidential (NMAC).
Post Employment Health Plan (PEHP)
Based upon your bargaining unit the City may participate in a PEHP plan that will provide reimbursement for out-of-pocket cost of qualified medical expenses such as prescription drugs, doctor co-pays, eyeglasses and cover the reimbursement of medical insurance premiums upon separation or retirement.
Holidays
The City offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. In addition, based upon your bargaining unit a bank of floating holiday hours is available to be used at the employee's discretion.
Vacation
The City initially offers two weeks of paid vacation per calendar year for all full time employees. Accrual rates increase thereafter based upon your bargaining unit.
Sick Leave
Sick leave shall accrue a rate of eight hours for each month of continuous service, or approximately two weeks per year for all full time employees. Employees may use up to half of their annually accrued sick leave for family illness and up to five days (40 hours) per calendar year for bereavement leave.
Management Leave
Management level employees may receive a prorated amount of management leave time each new calendar year.
Educational Incentive Program
In addition to regular pay when education is in addition to the regular requirements of the job specifications and is work related.
Tuition Reimbursement
Based on your bargaining unit, you may be reimbursed for tuition and book costs of approved job related courses. The maximum amount of tuition reimbursement in any calendar year will vary based upon your bargaining unit.
Auto Allowance
Management level employees may receive auto allowance based upon the need of the position.
Telephone/PDA Stipend
Management level employees may receive a telephone and/or PDA stipend based upon the need of the position.
Bilingual Pay
Bilingual pay is provided to employees who are required by their department head to use both English and Spanish in communicating with the public while performing the duties of his/her position and who demonstrate appropriate skills in both speaking and understanding the Spanish language shall receive compensation. The benefit amount varies per bargaining unit.
01
Do you possess a valid California Drivers License?
- Yes
- No
02
PD - Have you previously applied for the position of Police Officer with the City of Santa Maria?
- Yes
- No
03
PD - Are you currently going through the recruitment process with any other agency?
- Yes
- No
04
PD - Describe how your previous employment, experience, and education have provided you the ability to exercise seasoned judgment under stress. Please provide at least one example.
05
PD - Have any of your employers imposed any level of disciplinary action against you?
- Yes
- No
06
PD - Have you ever used illegal drugs (marijuana NOT included), including prescription drugs NOT prescribed to you? (Responding Yes to this question does not automatically disqualify you from this recruitment process.)
- Yes
- No
07
PD - If you answered Yes to Question #6, when did your use occur? What type of drug(s)? How often did you use the drug(s) and how much did you consume?
08
PD - Have you ever been terminated from any position, or resigned in lieu of termination?
- Yes
- No
09
List all vehicle accidents (and date of occurrence) that you have been involved with, regardless of fault. If none, enter N/A.
Required Question