Description
Support public safety as a non-sworn member of a police department by patrolling assigned areas, responding to non-emergency calls, enforcing parking and municipal codes, directing traffic, taking reports, assisting at incident scenes, and providing community outreach to help protect life and property and maintain order.
- • Respond to non-emergency calls for service and quality-of-life concerns.
- • Patrol assigned areas by vehicle, bike, or on foot to deter violations and assist the public.
- • Enforce parking and municipal codes; issue citations and warnings.
- • Direct traffic and set up cones, flares, and detours at collisions, hazards, and events.
- • Handle non-injury traffic collisions, gather information, and complete reports.
- • Provide basic first aid/CPR and request medical or sworn assistance as needed.
- • Document incidents with clear, accurate reports, logs, and photographs.
- • Photograph and diagram minor crime, collision, and property-damage scenes.
- • Collect and package basic evidence and found property, maintaining chain of custody.
- • Observe and report suspicious activity, hazards, and ordinance violations to dispatch or officers.
- • Triage incoming complaints to determine CSO response or referral to sworn units or services.
- • Communicate via radio, CAD, and phone to relay information and request resources.
- • Assist sworn officers at scenes by managing perimeters, crowd control, and logistics.
- • Monitor traffic conditions and place signs or message boards to promote safe driving.
- • Coordinate vehicle tows and impounds; prepare and issue tow notices.
- • Tag, abate, and coordinate removal of abandoned or inoperable vehicles.
- • Staff front counter or access points; screen visitors and provide directions and assistance.
- • Provide community members with safety information, referrals, and program resources.
- • Plan or deliver outreach, crime-prevention, and safety education programs.
- • Post code-enforcement notices and compliance warnings as directed.
- • Verify the accuracy and completeness of reports, citations, notices, and case files.
- • Testify as a witness regarding observations, reports, or code and parking violations.
- • Conduct welfare checks and coordinate services; request sworn response when needed.
- • Provide road information and general assistance to motorists and pedestrians.
- • Assist with property and evidence intake, labeling, and transport.
- • Perform public fingerprinting/Livescan and records requests in accordance with policy.
- • Maintain scene security and perimeter safety at incidents until relieved.
- • Train or mentor new CSOs, interns, or volunteers on procedures and safety.
- • Support special events with traffic control, pedestrian safety, and public information.
- • Follow departmental policies and legal guidelines to ensure safe, courteous service.
Related specializations
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Available on paid plans only
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Related Pathways
Public Service & Safety
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
