Coon Rapids Police Department seeks volunteer Reserve Officer to support community safety

The City of Coon Rapids is recruiting volunteers for the Coon Rapids Police Department Reserve Unit, a long standing program designed to support the department through non sworn, non enforcement, and non armed public safety work.

According to official city recruitment materials, the Reserve Unit is made up of well trained and dedicated volunteers who help extend the department’s presence at community events and other public facing assignments. While reserve officers do not perform law enforcement or carry firearms, their role is intended to strengthen community safety, visibility, and coordination during high demand activities.

Duties and community roles

Reserve officers assist the department in a range of support functions that are critical to large gatherings and public spaces. These duties commonly include event security and traffic control at major city events such as Fourth of July celebrations, parades, carnivals, and fairs.

Reserves may also provide security support at high school sporting events, including football and hockey games, as well as assist with site security at locations such as Anoka Ramsey Community College and the Coon Rapids Civic Center. Additional responsibilities can include park patrols and providing support to the department during emergencies or natural disasters, both locally and elsewhere in Minnesota.

Training and commitment

To join the Reserve Unit, volunteers must successfully complete the Coon Rapids Police Reserve Academy, which is typically held once a week for approximately two months, followed by a required field training program. Ongoing training requirements include maintaining current CPR and First Aid certification and completing Response to Resistance training, both with annual refresher courses.

Once active, reserve officers are expected to volunteer a minimum of approximately 100 to 120 hours per year at community events and related assignments. Members are also asked to work at least one shift per month, which may be either a volunteer or compensated assignment, and to attend most monthly reserve meetings held throughout the year.

Paid opportunities and professional benefits

Although the Reserve Unit is primarily a volunteer program, the city notes that paid opportunities are available after training is completed. These compensated assignments can include park patrol, security at Anoka Ramsey Community College, and security for Coon Rapids High School hockey games. The typical hourly rate for these paid functions is listed at $21.98.

The program also offers tuition reimbursement opportunities for students pursuing law enforcement careers. Eligible participants may qualify after six months in good standing and by completing a minimum of 250 service hours per year, whether paid or unpaid. In addition, reserve officers are eligible for internal hiring consideration when applying for sworn police officer positions with the department.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be a United States citizen, possess a valid Minnesota driver’s license with a good driving record, and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates must also be in good physical condition, pass a comprehensive criminal history and background check, successfully complete an oral examination, and fulfill a probationary period.

How to apply

Residents interested in serving as reserve officers can learn more and apply through the City of Coon Rapids official website and job portal. The city encourages community members who want to contribute meaningfully to public safety and civic life to consider applying.

Apply here. Learn more.

MinneapoliMedia