Job Title:
Police Officer Lateral
Company: City of Pismo Beach, CA
Location: Pismo Beach, CA
Created: 2026-04-13
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
Salary : $94,390.40 - $114,732.80 AnnuallyLocation : Police Station, CAJob Type: Full-TimeJob Number: POL26-1Department: Police DepartmentOpening Date: 03/12/2026 Job SummaryThe City of Pismo Beach is currently accepting applications for the position of Lateral Police OfficerThis recruitment will remain open until filled and applications will be reviewed as they are received. This City is pleased to provide a hiring incentive up to $10,000.00 to the successful applicant upon completion of the POST background and hiring process. The City of Pismo Beach is located along seven miles of scenic Central Coast shoreline in San Luis Obispo County. Known for its sandy beaches, resort hotels, and nearby award-winning wineries, the area welcomes visitors year-round. Due to this vibrant visitor economy, the Pismo Beach Police Department provides a proactive, service-oriented approach to tourism-based policing while maintaining a strong commitment to community safety and quality of life for residents.Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of patrol and law enforcement tasks in the prevention of crime, the protection of life and property, and the enforcement of Federal, State, and local laws and ordinances. Supports investigations, assists in the preparation of cases, and testifies in court. Provides information and assistance to the public and maintains public safety while enhancing quality of life for citizens. Examples of Essential Job Functions 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.Patrols the City within an assigned area in a radio dispatched automobile to secure life and property, observe situations, report suspicious, criminal activity, or hazardous conditions, and deter crime.Responds to 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.Provides information, directions, and assistance to the public in a variety of situations; takes reports and assists the public with complaints or unusual situations. 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.. Observes, monitors, and controls routine and unusual traffic situations; stops and warns drivers or issues citations as appropriate; assists motorist with inoperable vehicles and arranges for immediate removal of stranded vehicles; provides direction and traffic control in accident or incident situations, special events, or other congested situations.Makes arrests and serves warrants and subpoenas; takes individuals into custody and may transport them as needed; assists in receiving, searching, booking, fingerprinting, and transporting prisoners.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. Conducts comprehensive investigations into felony and high level crimes as assigned including conducting surveillance activities and coordinating and maintaining crime scene activities.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 involving unfit homes and crimes committed against or by juveniles; advises and refers juveniles to appropriate community resources as requested or as necessary.Assists City Attorney or District Attorney staff in preparing, documenting, and developing cases and gathering information; testifies in court as required. Directs the activities of police support personnel and/or volunteers in office and field situations; if assigned to a specialized area performs all tasks with professionalism and efficiency.Provides emergency medical attention to the public when responding to calls for assistance and requests appropriate medical assistance as necessary.Provides mutual aid to other law enforcement agencies as dispatched and in accordance with departmental policy.Prepares and maintains reports, logs, records, and accurate files.Serves writs, warrants, subpoenas, and other legal documents.May perform and/or coordinates specific program or projects, including community-oriented policing, school liaison, project and resource development, investigations, and crime prevention. Attends meetings, conferences, workshops, and training sessions; reviews publications and materials to become and remain current on principles, practices, and new developments in assigned work areas.Participates in community events to build relationships and address public concerns.Oversees, monitors, and coordinates the use and care of equipment as required.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, and pursuit, apprehension, and transportation of suspects.Investigation and identification techniques and equipment.Rules of evidence regarding search and seizure and the preservation of evidence.Courtroom procedures and techniques for testifying.Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, procedures, and court decisions relevant to assigned area of responsibility.Safety practices and equipment related to the work, including the safe use and proper care of firearms, chemical agents, and impact weapons.Techniques of first aid and CPR. Operating a motor vehicle in a safe manner under patrol and emergency conditions.Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.English usage, grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and punctuation. Techniques for effectively dealing with individuals of various ages, various socio-economic and ethnic groups, and effectively representing the City in contacts with the public. Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.Ability to:Observe accurately; recall faces, names, descriptive characteristics, and facts of incidents and places.Interpret apply and explain complex laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.Prepare clear, accurate and grammatically correct reports, records, and other written materials.Identify and be responsive to community issues, concerns, and needs.Coordinate and carry out special assignments.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 the equipment and vehicles of the department in a safe and responsible manner.Operate modern office equipment, including computer equipment and software programs.Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.Establish, maintain, and foster positive and harmonious working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.Pass a detailed background investigation.Work extended shifts or be called back in emergency situations. Supplemental Information 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:High School Diploma or GED, and specialized training in law enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field is highly desirable. Licenses and CertificationsPossession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Driver's License by time of appointment.Possession of a Basic Certificate issued by the California State Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).Possession of, or ability to obtain, and maintenance of a valid First Aid and CPR certificates issued by the American Red Cross within twelve months of appointment to the position.THIS POSITION WILL BE REQUIRED TO SUCCESSFULLY PASS:Pre-employment InterviewPolice Background InvestigationPolygraphPsych Pre-employment PhysicalThe City reserves the right to adjust the recruitment and testing/selection process to best meet the needs of the City. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract expressed or implied, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked at any time.(If not initially selected, applicants are welcome to reapply after 6 months)EOEDiscover the Benefits of Working with the City of Pismo BeachAt the City of Pismo Beach, our employees are our greatest asset. We're proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future.Comprehensive Coverage for You and Your FamilyHealth, Dental & Vision Insurance - High-quality coverage through CalPERS Medical, with options tailored to your needs.City Contributions - Up to $2,500/month toward family coverage.Future-Focused Financial BenefitsDeferred Compensation Plan - Build long-term financial security with tax-advantaged retirement savings.City Contributions - Among the most competitive in the region, providing unmatched contributions based on your applicable MOU or Resolution.Longevity PayWe value long-term service and reward your dedication:2.5% pay increase after 5+ years of service5% pay increase after 10+ yearsLateral sworn law enforcement officers receive credit toward longevityInsurance & Optional BenefitsLife & AD&D Insurance - $50,000 in life insurance plus $100,000 in AD&D coverage, provided by the City.Additional Optional Benefits-Aflac supplemental plansFlexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for health and dependent care through IGOESupport for You and Your FamilyEmployee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for work-life challenges.Work-Life BalanceGenerous vacation and sick leave13 paid holidays - Includes 11 standard and 2 personal holidaysA workplace culture that values your time, health, and personal well-beingRetirement PlanningParticipation in CalPERS and Social Security ensures a strong foundation for your retirement.Benefit details may vary by position and are defined in the applicable Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) or Resolution for each classification.Join us-and enjoy the rewards of a career that gives back.01 Do you currently possess a California POST Basic Certificate. Yes No Required Question