Earlier today I saw several Parks Patrol officers cruising around Grand Junction's City Hall. Suddenly, I remembered the city recruits new employees every summer. After a quick check, it turns out the City of Grand Junction is hiring for the Parks Patrol right now. Interested?

What exactly is the Parks Patrol? You've probably seen them riding bikes through the park wearing fluorescent yellow shirts. Are you interested? What qualifications do you need in order to be considered for the job?

I've thought about this before. It's possible I don't have the backbone for law enforcement. Then again, this is supposedly "lighter" duty. It just so happens a good friend of mine did this for years. He ultimately moved up into full-time law enforcement.

What are the qualifications?

  • Must be at least 21 years of age
  • Equivalent to completion of twelfth grade plus one year of experience in public recreation, security, or related fields
  • Desire to work in law enforcement
  • Possession or ability to obtain Colorado Driver's License
  • Good physical condition
  • Good moral character (criminal history could disqualify)
  • Must pass a background check
  • Must complete a pre-employment physical and drug screening

Okay, so let's say you meet these qualifications. What's in it for you?

  • Pay = $15 per hour (sorry, but this has gone unchanged for years)
  • Gain valuable experience which could lead to a future in law enforcement
  • 40 hours a week from May to September
  • 28 hours a week from March to April and from October to November.
  • Job can accommodate college schedules

Let's say you get the job - what exactly will you be doing?

  • Patrol city parks, trails, facilities and buildings via motorized vehicle, bicycle, or on foot
  • ensure compliance with parking laws, city codes, rules, and regulations
  • visual checks through parks
  • report safety problems to appropriate personnel for correction
  • deter criminal and other undesirable activity
  • Issue citations for violations
  • Summon City police when enforcement beyond scope of authority is needed
  • Respond to citizen complaints and resolve minor conflicts
  • Perform a variety of public relations functions
  • Assist in emergency situations
  • Assist in traffic control at various parks and events

What do you think? Are you interested? If someone were looking to get their foot in the door in law enforcement, this seems like the perfect opportunity. Still in college? Here's a chance for seasonal employment offering pay along with training and experience.

Give it some consideration. You don't have long on this one. The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 20, 2018. At the very least, you might want to try out for the position, just to see if you qualify.

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