Search Jobs

Please click on the Job PDF below to view the full announcement.

City of Los Altos
Invites you to apply for the position of:

Communications Officer

$107,060.49 - $130,132.69 Annually

EXCITING OPPORTUNITY! The Police Communications Center is a fast-paced environment serving first responders and the community during emergency and non-emergency events. Communications Officers interact daily with the public and law enforcement personnel through phone calls, 9-1-1 events, in person and over the police radio system. We are looking for highly skilled professionals who can multi-task and react calmly during emergency situations, while making quick decisions and determining the nature and severity of service calls. If you are looking to make a difference in the City of Los Altos while working in the Communications Center, this position is for you!

ABOUT THE POSITION

Under general supervision, the Communications Officer, as a member of the Police Department, transmits and receives information over the police and public works radio system; dispatches routine and emergency calls for service; types, records, and files information; handles emergency and non-emergency telephone calls utilizing complex technical aids, such as computer aided dispatch systems (CAD), and performs related work as assigned.

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Receives emergency and non-emergency telephone calls from the public for police, fire, or other emergency services; determines the nature of the call and the resources necessary to respond.
• Monitors police radio communications; maintains contact with police units to track officer status and respond to need for additional resources; monitors various radio channels to keep abreast of county-wide police activities affecting the City and assist other county agencies with mutual aid.
• Prioritizes requests for police and other public safety services; determines availability and location of patrol units; transmits information and dispatches police personnel and equipment in response to calls; routes calls for fire and emergency medical assistance to the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
• Assists police personnel in the field by quickly and accurately researching and relaying criminal history information and other requested data.
• Receives and coordinates requests for emergency Public Works assistance outside of the City’s normal business hours (pertaining to full municipal services in Los Altos, and sewer maintenance requests in Los Altos Hills and the surrounding unincorporated areas).

Click here to view the full job description and duties.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills; ability to multi-task in stressful situations. Communicates effectively and proactively both verbally and in writing. Enjoys working in a small-town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

KNOWLEDGE OF: Standard office methods, procedures, software and equipment; Geography of the local area; General public safety communications practices; Principles of customer service.

SKILL AND ABILITY TO: Multi-task and prioritize; Efficiently use radio and other communications equipment; Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Analyze situations quickly and accurately; Maintain composure and work effectively under pressure; Understand and follow oral and written direction; Demonstrate initiative and exercise good judgment in the performance of duties; Establish, maintain, and promote positive working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, & CERTIFICATES:

Any combination of the listed experience and education requirements may lead to a qualifying application. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:

Experience:

• A minimum of one year of public safety radio dispatching and/or basic clerical experience is required

Education:

• Possession of a High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required.
• Proof of successful completion of either the Criticall Dispatcher test with a passing score or the P.O.S.T. Entry-level Dispatcher Test with a T-score of 50 or above. (Lateral applicants that are currently employed as a Public Safety Dispatcher (non-probationary) do not need to submit proof of test scores, however a California POST Dispatcher Academy Certificate is required.)
• Completion of college-level coursework is highly desirable

Certificates:

• Possession of a typing certificate with a minimum of 50 wpm dated within one year of the application date must be included as an attachment.
• Possession of Basic P.O.S.T. Dispatch Certificate is highly desirable and may be substituted for work experience.

This position will require the ability to work rotating shifts on an on-going basis, including irregular hours on short notice. This position will also be assigned a uniform to wear during work hours.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

POSITION SUMMARY:
Under general supervision, the Police Officer performs a variety of law enforcement, crime prevention, and public service duties; controls traffic flow, enforces State and local traffic regulations; and performs additional related tasks as assigned. This position will serve the public in traffic enforcement, patrol operations, and community-oriented policing assignments. Specialty assignments include Investigative Services, Auto Theft, School Resource Officer, Motorcycle Officer, SWAT, Hostage Negotiations, Tactical Response, and K-9 Officer positions. 

The Police Officer position may be filled by an entry-level applicant. Entry Level applicants will be sent to a POST-approved academy upon appointment and enter into the field training program immediately upon graduation from a POST-approved academy.  

 MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• KNOWLEDGE OF:
  The City of Los Altos geographical area, demographic make-up, government structure, and current challenges faced by the community. The candidate should have an understanding of the local community’s expectations with regard to public safety services and current challenges facing the city. The candidate should understand modern police methods and procedures, as well as community oriented policing and problem solving, and have an overall understanding of current events and issues surrounding the law enforcement profession as a whole.
   
• SKILL & ABILITY TO:
  Observe and accurately remember names, faces, numbers, incidents and places; learn and interpret laws, regulations, policies and procedures; carry out oral and written directions; analyze situations and make quick decisions requiring sound judgment; communicate situations; operate a variety of specialized police department equipment including computerized telecommunications and dispatch equipment; become proficient in self-defense techniques and in the care and use of firearms; maintain level of knowledge and physical condition required for satisfactory job performance; establish and maintain accurate records; prepare concise, comprehensive reports; communicate effectively; act with resourcefulness, courtesy and initiative; exercise independent judgment; and establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public.
   
• EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age 
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for citizenship 
  • Possession of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required 
  • An Associate Degree or completion of sixty (60) semester units of college level courses is highly desirable 
  • Must possess a valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record 
  • Must provide verification of the following test results (Verification must be provided on agency letterhead where test was administered, must include test results, and tests must have been completed within 1 year of application date):  
    • Must have completed the California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB)
      • Must have successfully completed the California POST physical agility test (known as the Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB)
    • Must be able to successfully complete a 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or fewer
       

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE POSSESSES THE FOLLOWING CHARACTERISTICS:
Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills, ability to multi-task, and a can-do attitude; communicates effectively and proactively, both verbally and in writing; enjoys working in a small town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS / GENERAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
Requires work, which may be strenuous and hazardous; includes working rotating shifts, as well as weekends and holidays.
 
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The salary range for this position ranges from $109,308.45 up to $132,865.10 annually. Placement within the range will be DOE. This is a full-time, non-exempt position represented by the Los Altos Peace Officer’s Association.

The benefits package offered by the City includes: 

• Retirement: 
  • CalPERS retirement plan for Classic I members is 3% @ 50 with employee paying a contribution of 9%
  • CalPERS retirement plan for Classic II members is 3% @ 55 with employee paying a contribution of 9%
  • For new CalPERS members, retirement benefits are pursuant to the California Public Employee’s Retirement Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA), employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 will have a retirement formula of 2.7% @ 57 with employee paying a contribution of 13%
• Health Plans: Choice of HMO or PPO plans through CalPERS Health with most family plans covered at 100%.
• Dental/Vision: City also offers a dental and vision reimbursement plan.
• City-paid life insurance of $50,000; additional life insurance purchase option
• Quality of Life Wellness Benefit $1,300 Annually
• Flexible Spending Plan: Dependent care and health care reimbursement plan available 
• Deferred Compensation: Voluntary participation in either Nationwide or ICMA-RC 
• Holidays: 13 annual holidays, plus 2 float days OR holiday compensation
• Vacation: Starting at 10 days annually 
• Sick Leave: Allowance of 12 days annually
• Employment Assistance Program
    

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:
A complete City application, Cover Letter, and Resume must be received. The recruitment will remain open until filled.
 
SELECTION PROCESS:
The applicants most closely matching the City's desired qualifications and organizational needs will be invited to participate in the oral board interview process. Following the initial oral board interview, a following departmental interview may be scheduled. Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, including a polygraph examination, pre-employment physical and mental health evaluation. 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:
The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER:
The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

Calling all recent Police Academy graduates! Join our team as an officer and contribute to the City of Los Altos Police Department's commitment to excellence.  Apply now to be a part of our dynamic and dedicated department. 

 

Police Officers play a dynamic role in law enforcement, combining crime prevention and public service. This position involves engaging in diverse assignments such as traffic enforcement, community-oriented policing, and specialized roles like Investigative Services, SWAT, and K-9 Officer positions. Entry-level applicants will undergo training at a POST-approved academy and transition into a field training program upon graduation, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful start to their law enforcement career.

 

Academy Graduate applicants will enter into the field training program immediately upon appointment.

 

About the Los Altos Police Department:

The Los Altos Police Department is a progressive organization consisting of 32 sworn officers and 15 non- sworn personnel dedicated to providing a high level of service to the community. The department is committed to the concept of community-oriented policing and continually strives for excellence, taking pride in themselves, the community they serve and their dedication to making a positive contribution to the field of law enforcement.

 

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

1. Patrols the City in a radio car and on foot
2. Answers calls for protection of life and private property and the enforcement of City, County, and State laws
3. Participates in criminal investigations
4. Interviews victims, complainants and witnesses
5. Conducts physical arrests of criminal suspects

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

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:

EXPERIENCE:

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for citizenship
• Must be able to successfully complete a 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or fewer

EDUCATION:

• Possession of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required
• An Associate Degree or completion of sixty (60) semester units of college level courses is highly desirable 

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS:

• Must possess a valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
• Must possess certificate of completion or diploma from a POST-approved Police Academy
• Must provide verification of the following test results: (Verification must be provided on agency letterhead where test was administered, must include test results, and tests must have been completed within 1 year of application date):
  1. Must have successfully completed the California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) with a T-score of 50 or higher
  2. Must have successfully completed the California POST physical agility test (known as the Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB)) with a score of 320 or higher

RECRUITMENT PROCESS:
The recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, including a Live Scan background investigation. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose a conviction will result in disqualification or termination.   

IDEAL CANDIDATE

Is highly professional, patient, respectful, and ethical; possesses excellent problem-solving skills, ability to multi-task, and a can-do attitude; communicates effectively and proactively, both verbally and in writing; enjoys working in a small town atmosphere with an engaged public, including merchants, property owners and residents.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT

Requires work, which may be strenuous and hazardous; includes working rotating shifts, as well as weekends and holidays.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Los Altos is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of a person’s race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age or sexual orientation. Candidates with a disability, which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process, should advise City of Los Altos upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request.

LIMITATIONS AND DISCLAIMER

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position. All job requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health and safety of themselves or other employees.

The City of San Jose is recruiting for a part-time School Crossing Guards in the Police Department during the normal school year.  Work involves providing for the safe conduct of elementary and junior high school children across heavily traveled streets and reporting problems requiring possible police action. Positions may involve substituting at different corners or a regular location assignment.  IN GENERAL, THESE ASSIGNMENTS ARE A SPLIT SHIFT WITH APPROXIMATELY 10 HOURS PER WEEK.  School Crossing Guards are required to work outside regardless of weather conditions and must be able to provide a uniform as specified by the Police Department.   Work includes outside duties and exposure to weather.  Work may include the physical ability to sit, stand, walk quickly, step up/down from the curb, reach, push and/or pull, twist and or rotate, bend, lift and carry up to 10 pounds, use hands hold and use a stop sign the entire shift, use other hand to stop traffic and use a whistle at the same. 
 
This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments.  If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.  For more information about Police department, School Safety unit, visit http://www.sjpd.org/BFO/Community/SchoolSafety/.

Applications will be available on a continuous basis until our current vacancies are filled.  To facilitate filling these positions, interviews will be conducted whenever sufficient qualified applications are received.   

EFFECTIVE 3/9/2021 THE LIVING WAGE RATE OF PAY PER HOUR IS $24.56,  EFFECTIVE 7/1/2021 THE LIVING WAGE WILL INCREASE TO $25.31. 

Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess the following competencies, as demonstrated in past and current employment history.  Desirable competencies for this position include: 

*Job Expertise - Demonstrates knowledge of and experience with applicable professional/technical principles and practices, Citywide and departmental procedures/policies and federal and state rules and regulations 

*Ability to communicate effectively in English both verbally and writing 

*Ability and willingness to work in all-weather situations 

*Experience working with children 

*Knowledge of traffic laws of California and City of San Jose 

*Knowledge of traffic control techniques and procedures 

*Ability to recognize traffic hazardous 

*Ability to have access to motor vehicle on a daily basis 

*Able to read city maps 

*Automobile insurance coverage of at least $35,000 ($15,000-$30,000 bodily injury,   $5,000 property damage.)  

*Be able to work morning and afternoon shifts every school day during school start and end times 

*Ability to give and follow oral instruction 

*Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with children, parents, school officials and law enforcement 

*Ability to remain calm and use judgment and initiative in an emergency situation 

*Customer Service - Demonstrates the ability to anticipate customers' needs and deliver services effectively and efficiently in a timely, accurate, respectful and friendly manner. 

*Initiative- Exhibits resourceful behaviors toward meeting job objectives; anticipates problems, is proactive, and avoids difficulties by planning ahead; displays willingness to assume extra responsibility and challenges; pursues continuing education opportunities that promotes job performance.

*Reliability- Completes quality work assignments in a timely and efficient manner; fulfills responsibilities and maintains confidentiality as appropriate

*Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills - Develops effective relationships with co-workers and supervisors by helping others accomplish tasks and using collaboration and conflict resolution skills

*Communication Skills - Communicates and listens effectively and responds in an timely, effective, positive and respectful manner; written reports and correspondence are accurate, complete, current; well-organized, legible, concise, neat, and in proper grammatical form responds to statements and comments of others in a way that reflects understanding of the content and the accompanying emotion; asks clarifying questions to assure understanding of what the speaker intended, ensures consistent communication takes place within area of responsibility.