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Police Cso Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Police Cso information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$58.4K

$97.2K

How much do police cso jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for police cso in Iowa is $58,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police CSO?

Police Community Service Officers (CSOs) are civilian staff members who support police operations by performing a variety of non-emergency and administrative duties. They often assist with community outreach, traffic control, taking reports for minor crimes, and supporting crime prevention initiatives. CSOs help free up sworn police officers to focus on higher-priority calls and law enforcement activities, enhancing overall public safety. Their work is vital for building positive relationships between the police department and the community.

How does a police CSO typically collaborate with sworn officers and the community?

Police CSOs often serve as a bridge between law enforcement and the public, handling non-emergency calls, community outreach, and administrative tasks. They work closely with sworn officers by assisting at crime scenes, gathering information, and supporting investigations without performing arrests. This collaboration allows sworn officers to focus on critical incidents while CSOs address quality-of-life issues, build relationships with community members, and help implement crime prevention programs. Regular communication and teamwork are essential to ensure smooth operations and positive community interactions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police CSO?

To thrive as a Police Community Services Officer (CSO), you typically need knowledge of law enforcement procedures, strong observational skills, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with police reporting systems, radio communication equipment, and sometimes completion of specialized CSO training is expected. Excellent interpersonal skills, conflict resolution abilities, and cultural sensitivity help CSOs effectively interact with diverse communities. These competencies are crucial for supporting public safety, fostering community trust, and efficiently handling non-emergency situations.

What is the difference between Police Cso vs Security Guard?

AspectPolice CsoSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsBasic security training, sometimes licensingBasic security training, licensing varies
Work EnvironmentPublic areas, law enforcement settingsPrivate properties, commercial sites
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, governmentPrivate security companies, businesses
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Police CSOs and security guards both focus on safety and security, but Police CSOs often work in law enforcement environments with more formal training and legal authority, while security guards typically operate in private settings with less formal credentials. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

How do you become a police CSO?

To become a police Community Support Officer (CSO), candidates typically need to complete a police or security-related training program, pass background checks, and meet minimum age and fitness requirements. Some roles may require a valid driver's license and good communication skills, with specific qualifications varying by jurisdiction.

What are popular job titles related to Police Cso jobs in Iowa?

For Police Cso jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Police Cso jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Cso jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Police Cso jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Police Cso job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Cso job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 90% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,374 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Community Safety Officer (CSO) - Day, Evening, and Overnight Shifts

Ames, IA • On-site

$22.72/hr

Part-time

PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Centrally located in the heart of Iowa, Ames is a vibrant, progressive community with more than 66,000 residents providing an excellent quality of life. Home to Iowa State University, Ames offers year-round recreation opportunities, diverse cultural offerings, a stable economy, safe neighborhoods, and a high-achieving school district. General Information The City of Ames Police Department is currently accepting applications for Community Safety Officer.

Under direction, our Community Safety Officers will patrol assigned areas and issue tickets for parking violations, handle all parking calls and complaints tactfully, in a calm and respectful manner and respond to calls that do not require a sworn police officer. This position also performs other duties as required. Candidates must be available to work 15-18 hours per week.

Scheduled shifts often consist of three 6-hour shifts, for 2 different types of shifts. Regular shift schedule will start after after a training period of approximately 10-12 weeks. 1) Various fluctuating shifts between 8 am and 11 pm, includes day and evening hours, and weekends.

OR 2) Overnight shifts are a set schedule, between 11pm to 6am, including weekends. These shifts are on a set rotation as follows: Monday/Friday/Saturday, second week is Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday, both weeks are still between 11pm to 6am. If selecting option 2, this is a set schedule after initial training.

Candidates may choose to be considered for both shifts options. On-the-job training is provided. Due to the extensive training program and scheduling needs, all applicants are requested to commit to employment for 12 months or longer.

In order to be considered for this position, all applicants must submit an online application by the deadline listed on this posting. The application must include complete responses to the supplemental questions. A submission of a resume in lieu of work history on the application or answering the supplemental questions is not sufficient.

Applications submitted for this position by the application deadline may be considered for other openings in this classification for up to 6 months. This position is an ongoing, part-time, less than 20 hours per week position, that is not benefit or paid leave eligible. Examples of Essential Job Functions Patrols assigned areas either on foot or in a vehicle, and issues tickets for parking violations.

Reports parking meter defects to superiors. Prepares and maintains relevant reports. Responds to calls that do not require a sworn police officer, such as assisting with traffic direction, funeral escorts, minor accidents, animal control duties, and initiating case reports on minor incidents, such as vandalism, theft, etc.

Provides transport of prisoners, as needed. May be responsible for the removal of hazardous items and clean-up of transport vehicles after use. May testify in court regarding parking and other witnessed incidents.

Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our Excellence Through People organizational culture. ETP values include: committing to continuous improvement; inspiring creativity and innovation; being customer driven; making data-driven decisions; championing employee involvement; striving for excellence; having fiscal stewardship; acting with honesty and integrity; exhibiting leadership; choosing a positive attitude; respect and dignity for one another; promoting safety and wellness; and cultivating teamwork. For leaders, this includes creating a work culture that brings these values to life.

For all employees, this includes maintaining a Total City Perspective. The purpose of ETP is to deliver exceptional services to the public at the best price, and for employees to experience an enjoyable and stimulating work environment. Qualifications Required Education and Experience: High school diploma, HiSet, or GED.

One year of experience in customer service or a field related to safety, enforcement or security. Other Requirements: Must be at least 18 years of age. Must possess a valid driver's license.

Must be flexible and available to work assigned shifts, including weekends, to ensure adequate coverage during routine and special events. Preferred: 3+ years of customer service experience, including problem solving and de-escalation of challenging situations. Currently enrolled in criminal justice field of study or completion of a criminal justice degree.

Previous experience in a law enforcement field or military background. Any specialized training related to the position or emergency response. Familiarity with the City of Ames streets or parking ordinances.

Bilingual abilities. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Some knowledge of the community's street layout. Knowledge of City parking ordinances.

General knowledge of Police Department policies and procedures. Skill in verbal and written communication. Skill in problem solving and making logical and sound decisions with minimum supervision and resources.

Skill in the completion of detailed records and reports. Ability to communicate effectively. Ability to understand and follow detailed verbal and written instructions.

Ability to walk for extended periods of time under adverse weather conditions. Ability to write quickly, legibly and accurately when completing tickets and other forms. Ability to establish and maintain effective relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and the general public.

Ability to respond tactfully and calmly to citizens during explanation and enforcement of City policy and regulations. Ability to take initiative and appropriate action when under pressure. Ability to be assertive in uncertain situations.

Ability to take control during emergency situations. Ability to work independently and with a team. Supplemental Information Required Physical Activities: Standing, walking, talking, hearing, reaching, grasping, finger dexterity, stooping and repetitive motions.

Physical Characteristics of Work: Requires sitting and/or driving approximately 50% of the time and standing and/or walking approximately 50% of the time (including walking for extended periods of time under adverse weather conditions). Requires the exertion of under 10 pounds of force routinely, the exertion of 10 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and the exertion of over 50 pounds of force infrequently, to lift or otherwise move objects. Vision Requirements: The minimum standard for use with those who operate cars, light trucks, etc.

Environmental Conditions: The worker is exposed to extreme heat (above 100 degrees) or cold (below 32 degrees) for periods of more than one hour; noise; vibration; atmospheric conditions that affect the respiratory system (i.e. dust, fumes, gasses, odors); may have exposure to pepper spray, and other hazards. The worker is also required to work in darkness or under poor lighting conditions

Examples of Equipment Used on the Job: Pickup truck/automobile. Two-way radio. Printed materials such as ticket pad, forms, city map, and code book.

Basic computer equipment. Safety equipment such as safety vest, flares, and barricades. Selection Process: The selection process consists of an evaluation of education and experience, phone interview, on-site interview, completion of a criminal background check, which includes a sex offender registry check, motor vehicle records check, and fingerprinting.

All candidates will be notified by email of their application status. Preference may be given to applicants possessing qualifications above the minimum requirements. Depending on the number of qualified candidates, the City may forego phone interviews.

E-Verify Process: The City of Ames participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization. All candidates who are offered a position with the City of Ames must complete Section 1 of Form I-9 along with the required proof of their right to work in the United States and proof of their identity on their first day of employment. Please be prepared to provide required documents on your first day of employment.

For additional information regarding acceptable documents for this purpose, please contact Human Resources at 515-239-5199 or go to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services web page at: http://www.uscis.gov. NOTE: Applicants with disabilities may submit requests for ADA testing or interview accommodations to the Human Resources Department prior to the test or interview. The City of Ames is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, marital status, disability, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against. Inquiries can be directed to the Human Resources Department at 515-239-5199.