City of South Gate
Overview
This recruitment process will close on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Under general supervision, police officers enforce laws and ordinances, prevent crime, protect life and property, maintain order, investigate crimes, accidents, vandalism, and detain persons suspected of criminal behavior. Police officers emphasize community-based policing, community interaction, and collaborative problem solving in all aspects of the job. Class Characteristics
The Police Officer is a journey level class in the Police Officer series. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned law enforcement duties and responsibilities under general supervision. The classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Police Sergeant in that the latter is responsible for the performance of more complex and difficult tasks, makes command decisions in the field, and supervises assigned personnel and activities. Supervision
Works under the direct supervision of Police Sergeant or a higher-ranking position depending upon assignment. Does not supervise. Responsibilities
Patrols assigned areas by car, foot, bicycle, or motorcycle; performs crime suppression and prevention activities; makes arrests, issues citations, serves subpoenas, and warrants; gives directions and answers special calls; conducts initial and follow‑up investigations. Interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; answers complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code and local ordinance violations; performs surveillance activities. Conducts chemical, drug and alcohol testing; investigates suspicious circumstances; performs selective enforcement when assigned; responds to radio messages or telephone instructions. Appears at scenes of accidents, disorders or crimes; notes and reports traffic hazards; investigates and prepares reports on accidents, offenses and damages to property. Assists in booking and releasing prisoners; transports prisoners; appears in court on and off duty as the arresting officer; interrogates persons whose actions are suspicious; performs initial investigations of crime and violations reported. Regulates traffic, enforces traffic laws; conducts complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; reports unsafe or hazardous conditions; requests objects which may endanger traffic be removed from the streets; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; may act as a dispatcher or jailer, assists in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; counsels and educates the community; administers first aid in cases of emergency. Provides assistance, information and responds to questions in collaboration with staff, citizens and public safety agencies as appropriate; emphasizes collaborative problem solving and community interaction in all aspects of the job and in a manner that is free of bias against any individuals or specific groups of people. Attends special training classes and target practice. Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations and associations, City management, staff and the public. Education and Experience
Graduation from high school or equivalent, or attainment of a two‑year, four‑year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must currently be employed by a California Law Enforcement Agency, be off probation and be in possession of a Basic POST Certificate issued by the State of California. License, Certifications and Special Requirements
Must possess a California Class C driver’s license showing proof of insurance and a satisfactory driving record required at time of appointment and throughout employment. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law. English/Spanish bilingual skills highly desirable. Must be 21 years of age at the time of application. Per Section 13651 PC: must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Background, fingerprinting, polygraph examination, and medical and psychological clearance required. Physical Standards
Height and weight correlations must be in proper proportion according to current medical standards. Normal color vision. Visual acuity of 20/70 in each eye correctable to 20/30 in each eye. Ability to pass a physical endurance and agility examination. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of: the organization, operation, rules and regulations of the Police Department; principles and techniques of police administration including traffic control, crime prevention, crowd disturbances and delinquency; rules of evidence; laws, ordinances and regulations affecting the work of the Department including custody of prisoners, arrest and court procedures; criminal investigation and case preparation; technical and administrative phases of crime prevention and law enforcement; community policing policies and philosophy; collaborative conflict resolution skills and excellent interpersonal communication skills; community relations; governmental structure/organization of the City of South Gate and interrelations of the Police Department; principles and practices of personnel management, supervision and leadership. Ability to read and understand departmental policies, rules, instructions, laws and regulations; analyze situations and adopt a quick, calm, effective and reasonable course of action in situations involving emotional or physical pressures; write clear and accurate reports; remember names, faces and details or incidents; establish and maintain effective relationships with others; interact tactfully, effectively and in a positive manner with City Officials, Officials of other organization, members of other agencies, community organizations, community leaders, the media and the public; understand and be sensitive to the needs and concerns of diverse populations in the City; evaluate sensitive situations quickly and initiate appropriate action to diffuse situations and/or resolve problems; accurately type 25 words per minute. Physical Demands and Work Environment
Frequently required to walk, sit and talk or hear; may stand for extended periods of time. Occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Normal color vision and the ability to adjust focus. Noise level usually quiet in the office and moderately loud when outdoors. Incumbents occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions, traffic, dust, gas, fumes and chemicals. Application Packets Must Include
A fully completed online employment application covering at least the past 10 years of employment history (or longer if you have other relevant experience). Must be specific in describing your qualifications for this position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Selection Process
All application materials received along with the submitted online application will be reviewed and evaluated. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification. The testing of Police Officer‑Lateral will include the following: Oral Interview – 100% Physical Agility – Qualifying – The agility test is to evaluate the candidate's endurance, strength, agility, and speed. Prospective employees are also subject to and must successfully pass a thorough and extensive background investigation, which will include a polygraph examination. Prospective employees will receive a complete medical examination, including a stress EKG, and drug/alcohol screen; and psychological evaluation, prior to appointment. Hiring Interview – Prospective employees will be interviewed by the Chief of Police and must successfully pass this interview to proceed in the process.
Candidates who successfully complete all phases of the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list. Current and future vacancies will be filled from this list. Lists typically last for 12 months but may be extended or abolished in accordance with the City’s Civil Service rules and regulations. The City supports a Drug‑Free Workplace. New employees must complete a verification form designated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services, that certifies eligibility for employment in the United States of America. Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any phase of the selection process must make such a request during the application process by notifying the Human Resources Office. Equal Opportunity Employer – The City of South Gate is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws, it does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, religion, disability, medical condition, genetic characteristic or information, sex, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or military or veteran status in its employment actions, policies, procedures, or practices. About the City
The City of South Gate is a busy urban community consisting of residential, commercial, and industrial development, spread over 7.41 square miles. It is currently ranked the 79th largest city in California with a population of approximately 97,000. Strategically located along the 710 freeway, the City is just 12 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.
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This recruitment process will close on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Under general supervision, police officers enforce laws and ordinances, prevent crime, protect life and property, maintain order, investigate crimes, accidents, vandalism, and detain persons suspected of criminal behavior. Police officers emphasize community-based policing, community interaction, and collaborative problem solving in all aspects of the job. Class Characteristics
The Police Officer is a journey level class in the Police Officer series. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned law enforcement duties and responsibilities under general supervision. The classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Police Sergeant in that the latter is responsible for the performance of more complex and difficult tasks, makes command decisions in the field, and supervises assigned personnel and activities. Supervision
Works under the direct supervision of Police Sergeant or a higher-ranking position depending upon assignment. Does not supervise. Responsibilities
Patrols assigned areas by car, foot, bicycle, or motorcycle; performs crime suppression and prevention activities; makes arrests, issues citations, serves subpoenas, and warrants; gives directions and answers special calls; conducts initial and follow‑up investigations. Interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; answers complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code and local ordinance violations; performs surveillance activities. Conducts chemical, drug and alcohol testing; investigates suspicious circumstances; performs selective enforcement when assigned; responds to radio messages or telephone instructions. Appears at scenes of accidents, disorders or crimes; notes and reports traffic hazards; investigates and prepares reports on accidents, offenses and damages to property. Assists in booking and releasing prisoners; transports prisoners; appears in court on and off duty as the arresting officer; interrogates persons whose actions are suspicious; performs initial investigations of crime and violations reported. Regulates traffic, enforces traffic laws; conducts complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; reports unsafe or hazardous conditions; requests objects which may endanger traffic be removed from the streets; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; may act as a dispatcher or jailer, assists in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; counsels and educates the community; administers first aid in cases of emergency. Provides assistance, information and responds to questions in collaboration with staff, citizens and public safety agencies as appropriate; emphasizes collaborative problem solving and community interaction in all aspects of the job and in a manner that is free of bias against any individuals or specific groups of people. Attends special training classes and target practice. Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations and associations, City management, staff and the public. Education and Experience
Graduation from high school or equivalent, or attainment of a two‑year, four‑year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university. Applicants must currently be employed by a California Law Enforcement Agency, be off probation and be in possession of a Basic POST Certificate issued by the State of California. License, Certifications and Special Requirements
Must possess a California Class C driver’s license showing proof of insurance and a satisfactory driving record required at time of appointment and throughout employment. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law. English/Spanish bilingual skills highly desirable. Must be 21 years of age at the time of application. Per Section 13651 PC: must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer. Background, fingerprinting, polygraph examination, and medical and psychological clearance required. Physical Standards
Height and weight correlations must be in proper proportion according to current medical standards. Normal color vision. Visual acuity of 20/70 in each eye correctable to 20/30 in each eye. Ability to pass a physical endurance and agility examination. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of: the organization, operation, rules and regulations of the Police Department; principles and techniques of police administration including traffic control, crime prevention, crowd disturbances and delinquency; rules of evidence; laws, ordinances and regulations affecting the work of the Department including custody of prisoners, arrest and court procedures; criminal investigation and case preparation; technical and administrative phases of crime prevention and law enforcement; community policing policies and philosophy; collaborative conflict resolution skills and excellent interpersonal communication skills; community relations; governmental structure/organization of the City of South Gate and interrelations of the Police Department; principles and practices of personnel management, supervision and leadership. Ability to read and understand departmental policies, rules, instructions, laws and regulations; analyze situations and adopt a quick, calm, effective and reasonable course of action in situations involving emotional or physical pressures; write clear and accurate reports; remember names, faces and details or incidents; establish and maintain effective relationships with others; interact tactfully, effectively and in a positive manner with City Officials, Officials of other organization, members of other agencies, community organizations, community leaders, the media and the public; understand and be sensitive to the needs and concerns of diverse populations in the City; evaluate sensitive situations quickly and initiate appropriate action to diffuse situations and/or resolve problems; accurately type 25 words per minute. Physical Demands and Work Environment
Frequently required to walk, sit and talk or hear; may stand for extended periods of time. Occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. Occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Normal color vision and the ability to adjust focus. Noise level usually quiet in the office and moderately loud when outdoors. Incumbents occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions, traffic, dust, gas, fumes and chemicals. Application Packets Must Include
A fully completed online employment application covering at least the past 10 years of employment history (or longer if you have other relevant experience). Must be specific in describing your qualifications for this position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Selection Process
All application materials received along with the submitted online application will be reviewed and evaluated. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification. The testing of Police Officer‑Lateral will include the following: Oral Interview – 100% Physical Agility – Qualifying – The agility test is to evaluate the candidate's endurance, strength, agility, and speed. Prospective employees are also subject to and must successfully pass a thorough and extensive background investigation, which will include a polygraph examination. Prospective employees will receive a complete medical examination, including a stress EKG, and drug/alcohol screen; and psychological evaluation, prior to appointment. Hiring Interview – Prospective employees will be interviewed by the Chief of Police and must successfully pass this interview to proceed in the process.
Candidates who successfully complete all phases of the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list. Current and future vacancies will be filled from this list. Lists typically last for 12 months but may be extended or abolished in accordance with the City’s Civil Service rules and regulations. The City supports a Drug‑Free Workplace. New employees must complete a verification form designated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Citizenship and Immigration Services, that certifies eligibility for employment in the United States of America. Individuals who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any phase of the selection process must make such a request during the application process by notifying the Human Resources Office. Equal Opportunity Employer – The City of South Gate is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with all applicable Federal and State laws, it does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, religion, disability, medical condition, genetic characteristic or information, sex, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or military or veteran status in its employment actions, policies, procedures, or practices. About the City
The City of South Gate is a busy urban community consisting of residential, commercial, and industrial development, spread over 7.41 square miles. It is currently ranked the 79th largest city in California with a population of approximately 97,000. Strategically located along the 710 freeway, the City is just 12 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.
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