Police Sergeant (20516334)

TOWN OF ATHERTON

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
INTERNAL/EXTERNAL

POLICE SERGEANT- Open Until Filled

The Town of Atherton is approximately five square miles. The City is located in the San Francisco Peninsula in Southern San Mateo County. Atherton is a small, rural, and residential community, with no industrial land-use base. Native trees cover the five miles of town. Atherton’s current population is 7,133 according to the California Census in 2020.       

The Town of Atherton invites you to apply for the position of Police Sergeant. This is an internal and external opportunity. Under the general supervision of the Police Commander, the Police Sergeant plans, schedules, deploys, trains, supervises, and reviews the work of Police Officers and civilian staff.  The Sergeant performs a wide range of patrol and related duties in the prevention of crime, maintenance of public order, protection of life and property, and the enforcement of laws and ordinances.  As part of the Management Team, the Sergeant assists in the preparation of collision investigations and criminal cases, provides courtroom testimony, serves in specialized organizational roles, and assists with various administrative functions. 

A letter of interest and current resume is required. All submissions will be reviewed for relevant education, experience, training, and other job-related qualifications.. An extensive background includes a polygraph examination and/or voice stress analysis, completion of the POST Personal History Statement along with medical and psychological exams if selected.

Those meeting the stated qualifications / requirements will be reviewed for selection to participate in the interview and evaluation process for the position. Those selected to participate in the competitive process will be provided with the details of the testing process, which has been tentatively scheduled for the week of August 26, 2024.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Sufficient education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities, which would be typically acquired through:

Education & Experience

• Completion of an associate degree and 4 years’ experience as a sworn Police Officer.
• Must have applied for the Intermediate P.O.S.T. Certificate.
• Highly desirable qualifications may include: an Advanced or Supervisory Certificate from P.O.S.T.; bachelor’s degree and/or completion of the Supervisors’ Leadership Institute (SLI) Course.

Knowledge of:

To excel as a Police Sergeant, you need a comprehensive blend of knowledge, skills and experience.  A thorough understanding of law enforcement protocols, including arrest procedures, search and seizure laws, use of force policies, and evidence handling, is essential for ensuring officers operate within legal boundaries. Familiarize yourself with our department's policies, regulations, and standard operating procedures. This includes administrative procedures, disciplinary protocols, and codes of conduct. As a sergeant, you'll be responsible for leading and managing a team of officers. Knowledge of leadership theories, personnel management, conflict resolution techniques, and performance evaluation methods will help you effectively supervise and motivate your team. Understanding community policing concepts and strategies is crucial for building positive relationships with community members, addressing local concerns, and implementing proactive crime prevention initiatives. Stay updated on legal developments and ethical standards relevant to law enforcement. This includes constitutional rights, case law precedents, ethical dilemmas, and the ethical responsibilities of police officers. Effective communication is vital for a police sergeant. Have strong verbal and written communication skills to convey information clearly, resolve conflicts, and interact professionally with colleagues, community members, and stakeholders. Have the ability to assess risks, evaluate options, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations. This includes critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to weigh potential consequences effectively.

Skills and Ability to:

In a small-town setting, being an effective police sergeant requires a unique set of skills and abilities tailored to our community's specific needs and challenges. Building strong relationships with community members is essential. A police sergeant should be approachable, empathetic, and proactive in engaging with residents, schools, and community organizations. Developing trust and collaboration with the community fosters effective communication and partnership in addressing public safety concerns. Policing needs can vary widely from day to day. An effective police sergeant should be adaptable and able to respond flexibly to changing circumstances, whether it's addressing a minor traffic accident, coordinating a community event, or managing a critical incident. Effective leadership is essential for guiding and motivating officers. A police sergeant should lead by example, provide clear direction, and empower officers to perform their duties effectively.