Community Peace Officer

Job Type
Inspectional / Regulatory / Enforcement

Organization
Town of Ponoka

Competition Number
#26-006-200

Closing date
Jun 30, 2026

Job Description
The Town of Ponoka is currently recruiting for a permanent full-time (1.0 FTE) Community Peace Officer 1 in the Protective Services Department.

Position Summary
Reporting to the Manager of Protective Services, the Community Peace Officer (CPO) supports community safety through enforcement, education, and proactive engagement. This role works collaboratively with internal departments and external agencies, including the RCMP, Sheriffs, Fish and Wildlife, and other municipal partners.

The CPO is responsible for investigating bylaw complaints, resolving disputes, and promoting compliance through enforcement, education, and community-based initiatives.

Typical Duties and Responsibilities

Enforce municipal bylaws and applicable provincial legislation
Conduct patrols (shift work) for enforcement, prevention, and community safety
Investigate complaints and determine appropriate resolutions (education, warnings, orders, or fines)
Provide animal control services
Serve legal documents as required
Attend court proceedings and maintain accurate documentation and reporting
Collaborate with RCMP and other enforcement agencies
Deliver public education and community safety programs
Participate in community events, schools, and committees
Support policy development, research, and bylaw updates
Issue orders under the Municipal Government Act
Build and maintain positive relationships with community stakeholders
Operate in alignment with the Town of Ponoka Mission Vision, Values and Corporate Philosophy

Minimum Requirements
Education

High school diploma plus a Diploma in Police and Justice Studies (or related field)
Current Community Peace Officer appointment (or ability to obtain upon hire)
Completion of all training required under the Peace Officer Act (Alberta)
Valid and current:
- P.A.R.E. test
- Baton and OC Spray certification
- EVOC (Emergency Vehicle Operation Course)
- Defensive tactics training

Experience

1–3 years of related enforcement or policing experience
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Experience preparing reports suitable for court proceedings
Ability to interpret legislation, bylaws, and policie

Other

Clean Criminal Record Check
Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with clean driver’s abstract
Current First Aid and CPR certification

Competencies
Knowledge

Sound judgment and decision-making in complex, high-pressure, or ambiguous situations, including enforcement and education-based outcomes
Ability to work within a collaborative policing model and make difficult or unpopular decisions when required
Strong understanding and application of policies, bylaws, and legislation
Effective conflict resolution and emergency response skills
Ability to gather evidence and prepare clear, accurate reports suitable for court proceedings
Strong communication skills, including public speaking, community education, and stakeholder engagement
Ability to manage workload fluctuations, remain proactive, and demonstrate initiative
Active listening skills with the ability to assess situations and determine appropriate actions
Professional, calm, and unbiased approach when interacting with the public
Strong relationship-building skills with internal and external partners
Emotional intelligence to respond appropriately in sensitive situations
Clear and adaptable written communication across various formats
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
High level of confidentiality and professionalism
Ability to present information or reports to leadership, including Council
Willingness to perform additional duties within the scope of the role

Working Conditions
Work conditions typically include office and outdoor conditions. The following is also noted:

Shift work is mandatory;
Outdoor work is required;
Care and attention will be required when working with animals;
The work will have periods of high volume generated by reactive complaints, coupled with high volumes of self-directed work;
The work will have conditions that change constantly;
The work will require liaison and collaboration with all internal departments and allied agencies on a continuous basis;

Further details pertaining to the physical demands of the position can be found in the Physical Demands Analysis included with the Town’s Health & Safety Program.

Health and Safety
Provide our community with quality services in a responsible manner within a healthy environment.
Ensure the Town of Ponoka’s health and safety policies, procedures, and safe work practices are followed in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulations.

Application Return
Recruitment

Permanent Full-time (1.0 FTE)

$36.57 - $53.94 per hour

Full benefits package including group life insurance, dental, extended health care and a flex health and wellness account.

Participation in Local Authorities Pension Plan

Paid vacation

Annual clothing allowance

Apply at https://ponoka.ca/careers or www.indeed.ca.

Competition open until suitable candidate is found. The Town of Ponoka thanks all applicants in advance, however, only those being considered will be contacted.

Town of Ponoka

Open Positions

Community Peace Officer