Community Service Officer - Full-time

Position descriptions/specifications are only intended to present a descriptive summary of the range of duties, tasks, and responsibilities associated with a specified position. Therefore, descriptions/specifications may not include all duties performed by the individual. In addition, descriptions/specifications are intended to outline the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into the position/class and do not necessarily convey the qualifications of incumbents within the position/class.

Position Summary:

The Community Service Officer (CSO) is a non-sworn position that performs a wide variety of specialized, technical, and administrative duties in support of the Sterling Police Department’s operations (patrol) division. CSOs primarily assist in patrol operations by handling non- in-progress calls for service and preparing detailed reports, training coordination, parking enforcement, traffic accidents, community engagement, and social media communications. This role serves as a vital link between the Department and the community, providing excellent public service, assisting sworn personnel, and enhancing overall departmental efficiency.

Primary Purpose

The primary function of the CSO is to provide non-sworn law enforcement support to the patrol division to ensure effective and efficient delivery of police services. This includes handling and documenting non-in-progress calls, public safety education, administrative coordination, traffic control, and non-hazardous incident response. The CSO position helps free sworn officers to focus on enforcement, in progress calls, and investigative duties, while ensuring quality service to the public.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Under the general supervision of the Operations Division Commander and/or Patrol Sergeant, and within the policies, procedures, and quality standards of the City of Sterling and the Sterling Police Department, the CSO will:

1. Provide excellent customer service, demonstrating continuous effort to improve operations, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively with colleagues, other agencies, and the public.
2. Respond to non-in-progress calls for service, such as property crimes, vandalism, lost property, civil inquiries, parking complaints, and traffic accidents. This includes gathering relevant information through interviews, observation, and evidence collection as appropriate, and completing all necessary paperwork and detailed reports in accordance with department policies and procedures.
3. Operate department vehicles safely to perform assigned duties and respond to calls for service.
4. Coordinate training programs for sworn and non-sworn personnel, including scheduling, budget tracking, and maintaining compliance with legislative mandates.
5. Perform clerical and administrative tasks such as data entry, report preparation, recordkeeping, and database management.
6. Provide information and assistance to the public in person, by phone, and through digital platforms; address complaints, answer questions, and facilitate department tours.
7. Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and exercise sound judgment in the release of records.
8. Serve as the Department’s social media coordinator, producing content to promote public safety and awareness.
9. Assist sworn officers with investigations, including report writing and follow-up activities.
10. Respond to community needs such as stalled vehicles, funeral escorts, special events, and traffic direction.
11. Assist in collecting, documenting, and preserving evidence at crime scenes, including photography duties.
12. Enforce parking ordinances, impound vehicles, investigate non-injury accidents, and respond to traffic complaints.
13. Support sworn personnel by serving subpoenas, processing and writing citations/abatements, and providing logistical assistance.
14. Respond to non-emergency and hazard calls, coordinating with other agencies when needed.
15. Follow all applicable safety rules and regulations.
16. Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisory staff.

Qualifications

Knowledge of:

• Department and City policies, procedures, and customer service standards.
• Property and evidence handling protocols, including hazardous material considerations.
• Court procedures, legal terminology, and law enforcement documentation standards.
• Principles and techniques of traffic control and accident investigation.
• Public outreach strategies, including use of social media platforms for public safety communication.
• Standard office equipment, computer systems, and data entry practices.

Ability to:

• Organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines and departmental goals.
• Type a minimum of 40 words per minute with accuracy while preparing reports and entering data.
• Communicate effectively in writing and verbally with diverse audiences.
• Operate department vehicles and radios safely and appropriately.
• Collect, process, store, and safeguard evidence according to established procedures.
• Work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.
• Handle sensitive or challenging interactions professionally and with tact.
• Maintain accurate records and prepare detailed reports.
• Work independently or as part of a team with minimal supervision.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform physical tasks including standing, walking, bending, lifting up to 50 pounds, and carrying up to 20 pounds.
• Manual dexterity for operating computers, office equipment, and evidence-handling tools.
• Visual acuity for reading reports, inspecting evidence, and driving.
• Hearing ability to communicate via phone, radio, and in person, and to recognize critical sounds.
• Physical mobility to work in a variety of environments, including office, field, and outdoor settings.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to varying weather conditions and environments.
• Duties range from sedentary office work to physically demanding activities.
• May require evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call availability for emergencies.

Marginal Functions

• Serve on special task forces or committees.
• Assist with special projects and community events.
• Attend additional meetings or training as assigned.
• Assist the support operations division

Education, Experience, Training and Requirements

Education: High school diploma or GED required.
Experience: Prior experience in customer service, public safety, law enforcement support, or a related field preferred.
Training/Certifications:

• Ability to obtain and maintain Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) certification for CCIC/NCIC database access.

Requirements:

• Possession of a valid Colorado driver’s license.
• 20 years of age by hire date.
• Ability to pass comprehensive criminal background check, to include CVSA, drug/alcohol testing and meet department standards.
• Ability to follow oral and written directions.

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Hours

• 40 hours per week
• No overnight shifts
• May include weekends, holidays, evenings, and early morning shifts
• Other hours as needed for special events and operations

What We Offer

• Health coverage you can count on – Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
• Peace of mind – City-paid life and AD&D insurance, plus options to add more coverage for you and your family.
• Support when you need it – Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Time to recharge – Paid time off starting at 7.39 hours per pay period (and growing with service) plus paid holidays.
• Future-focused – 5.37% City contribution to a 401(a) retirement plan after one year, plus voluntary 457(b) pre-tax and Roth savings plans.
• Wellness perks – Incentives for participating in wellness activities, and free access for you and your household to the Sterling Recreation Center and Logan County Shooting Range.
• Extra protection – Optional supplemental insurance plans, plus legal and identity protection options.
• Always here for you – 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Program for counseling, resources, and work-life balance support.

Apply Now – Position Open Until Filled

If you're ready to start a meaningful job with strong benefits, training support, and long-term growth potential, apply today!

The City of Sterling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference.