Public Safety Officer I

Join the Trojan Family: USC Department of Public Safety (DPS)

Title: Public Safety Officer I (Open to lateral officers and academy graduates)

Mission: To create a safe, secure, crime free environment for the Trojan Family through exemplary and professional service.

About the Department

• Team: DPS, one of the largest campus public safety departments in the United States, is a team of over 300 dedicated full-time employees.

• What we do: We share in the university’s ONE USC Safety Vision of ensuring an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and protected from being a crime victim and where the experiences and needs of all USC students, faculty, staff, and neighbors throughout USC’s spheres of influence are addressed.

• Learn more: Visit our DPS Website to explore our mission in depth.

Role Overview: As a Public Safety Officer I, you are not just a problem solver and guardian but a vital part of a community where education meets excellence. Step into a role where your duties will include but are not limited to:

• Safeguarding the Trojan Family: Through patrolling on foot or in a vehicle, be ready to respond to radio and/or telephone calls for both routine and emergency assistance in criminal and non-criminal matters with efficiency and professionalism.

• Deterrence: Act proactively to deter and prevent unlawful behavior through both internal and external public safety functions.

• Authority and Supervision: Work under the direct supervision of a watch commander, field supervisor, or a unit manager/supervisor, exercising “powers of arrest” authority as per a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the LAPD while on duty.

• Upholding the Security of USC Assets: By maintaining the security of our world-class facilities and properties.

• Legal Representation: Testify in court, safeguarding the university's interests.

• Community Engagement: Taking a hands-on approach to crime prevention and public information programs within USC and surrounding communities.

Work Schedule:

• 4/10 alternative work schedule; 10 hours per day, 40 hours per week.

• Shifts may include holidays, weekends, and overtime; must have availability to work certain special events and emergencies.

Selection Process

• Evaluation: Your application will undergo a stringent evaluation based on your relevant experience and education.

• In-depth Screening: After a series of interviews, successful candidates will undergo background, psychological, and medical evaluations following P.O.S.T guidelines.

• Pre-employment Essentials: Obtain State of California Patrol Persons and Firearms permits from BSIS.

How to Apply

• Application: Showcase your readiness to join the Trojan family by submitting a detailed application, resume, and thoughtful responses to our supplemental questions.

• Current USC Employees: Please apply through the dedicated channel in Workday.

Benefits

• USC’s Commitment to You: We offer an excellent package of benefits and programs including, but not limited to:

  • Tuition assistance for you and your family

  • Comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance options

  • 403b retirement account with matching 5% contribution by USC

  • 50% subsidy off Metro, LADOT, and Metrolink passes

  • Explore more on the USC Employee Gateway

Minimum Requirements

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent

• Experience: At least 1 year

• Licenses/Permits:

  • Valid California Class C Driver's license

  • Completed POST-certified Level I Academy or equivalent training/out-of-state training or;

  • One year experience as a USC Community Service Officer (CSO) meeting the POST or equivalency requirement

  • Possession of the State of California Patrol Persons and Firearms permits

Valid CA driver's license required. Position will participate in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Pull Notice System. A copy of DMV record will be required as a final condition of employment. For more information please visit the