Community Service Officer

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The Minneapolis Police Department is looking for Community Service Officer candidates who have a strong sense and commitment for public service, outstanding character, sound judgment, excellent work ethic, effective oral and written communication skills, interpersonal tact, empathy, and compassion.

As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. A Community Service Officer (CSO) works approximately 20‑30 hours per week Monday‑Friday with occasional nights and weekends while enrolled as a student in an approved two‑year law enforcement program and/or working toward completion of Minnesota Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) licensing requirements.

The CSO assists the Police Department and community by promoting intercommunication, understanding and cooperation between the Police Department and the diverse communities of Minneapolis. The CSO is a civilian position designed to prepare CSO’s for a full time Police Officer position. No one retains the job title of CSO on a long‑term basis.

This position currently works on‑site only (no remote work). The City of Minneapolis does not sponsor applicants for work visas.

• Assists patrol officers in non‑enforcement activities
• Responds to citizen requests for service
• Maintains police vehicles and equipment as assigned
• Picks up and delivers correspondence for the department and community organizations; identifies and reports criminal activity
• Assists citizens in identifying crime prevention techniques
• Recovers abandoned property
• Assists in traffic control of special events, major fires, parades and accidents
• Assists department officers or other agencies in providing transportation as requested
• Participates in recruitment and community engagement events
• Must pass periodic performance evaluations
• Regular and reliable attendance

Exposure to hazardous conditions and life‑threatening situations with occasional travel.

• Must be at least 18 years of age by hire.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Must have a valid driver's license by hire.
• Must have a high school diploma or equivalent by conditional offer.
• Must provide a college transcript and/or documented proof of enrollment or acceptance to a law enforcement program at a regionally accredited college/university by conditional offer.

• Must have and maintain a valid driver's license as defined by the Minneapolis Police Department by hire.
• Applicants must not have taken and passed the Minnesota Board of P.O.S.T. licensing exam before hire.

• Must not have a felony conviction.

• Candidates must be deemed medically and psychologically fit, including a physical screening, a work simulation test and a psychological exam.
• All job applicants must pass a pre‑employment drug and alcohol test once a conditional offer has been made.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and meet the physical requirements of police work.
• Applicants must sign an informed consent allowing the City to obtain their criminal history information.

A candidate’s profile will be evaluated on a 30% educational and experience score, followed by a 70% oral examination. A passing score of 70% on each step is required for placement on the eligible list. The hiring authority retains the right to limit the number of candidates interviewed and may select additional candidates based on education, experience, or skills related to the position.

• Considerable knowledge of Police Department divisions, functions, goals and special programs.
• Considerable knowledge of community needs and social patterns.
• Some knowledge of State, Federal and Local laws and law enforcement techniques.
• Knowledge of social services available to crime victims.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse communities.
• Good interpersonal tact, empathy, and compassion.

The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affractive Action employer.