MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Coon Rapids Local Government: Coon Rapids Police Department Recruiting Law Enforcement Students for Community Service Officer Roles

COON RAPIDS, MN (April 15, 2026) — The City of Coon Rapids is accepting applications for part-time Community Service Officer positions within the Coon Rapids Police Department, offering law enforcement students a structured pathway into policing through non-sworn field and administrative work.

According to the city’s official employment posting, applications are open through April 27, 2026, for the position, which serves as a development-focused role supporting daily police operations while preparing candidates for potential careers as sworn officers.

Position Structure and Purpose

The Community Service Officer program functions as a professional training track designed to bridge classroom instruction and practical law enforcement experience. CSOs are not licensed peace officers but perform a range of police-related duties that do not require sworn authority.

Department information indicates the role is structured as a career pipeline, with many participants later transitioning into full-time officer positions in Coon Rapids and other Minnesota agencies.

Employment in the role is limited to a maximum of four years, and continued eligibility requires active enrollment in a law enforcement education program.

Duties and Responsibilities

Community Service Officers assist with non-criminal and support functions that allow sworn officers to focus on emergency response and investigations. Responsibilities include:

• Animal control: Capturing and transporting stray animals, issuing ordinance citations, and responding to animal-related complaints
• Traffic and parking enforcement: Assisting at crash scenes with traffic control, enforcing parking regulations, and conducting traffic-related surveys
• Field support services: Handling vehicle lockouts, coordinating towing situations, and providing public assistance services
• Operational logistics: Maintaining squad vehicle supplies, transporting vehicles for service, and managing police equipment such as radios
• Communications support: Responding to non-emergency calls and transmitting information via police radio systems

Compensation, Schedule, and Benefits

The city lists a hiring range of $27.11 to $28.66 per hour, with a broader pay scale reaching up to $33.79 per hour, based on qualifications and experience.

Although part-time, the position includes:

• Health and dental insurance eligibility
• Prorated paid time off and holiday pay
• Flexible scheduling, including day, evening, and weekend shifts to align with academic commitments

Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants must meet specific academic, professional, and physical standards:

• Enrollment: Must be currently enrolled in a college-level law enforcement program, with proof required
• Licensing: Valid driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
• Physical capability: Ability to perform semi-strenuous duties, including lifting up to 50 pounds and handling animal control situations
• Professional standards: Ability to prepare clear written reports and manage sensitive information with discretion

Role in Department Operations

City materials indicate the CSO role is designed to enhance operational efficiency by assigning non-emergency and service-related tasks to trained support personnel. This allows licensed officers to prioritize enforcement, investigations, and emergency response.

Application Information

Applicants can review full qualifications and submit materials through the City of Coon Rapids employment portal:
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/coonrapidsmn

City officials state the department is seeking candidates who are service-oriented, detail-focused, and committed to public safety, while gaining hands-on experience in law enforcement operations.

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