A guide to becoming one of those civilians doing Marietta police work

You may have heard that Marietta police will be hiring to fill 10 newly created public safety ambassador positions. But it wasn't clear who or what the department was looking for in a candidate.

That changed Tuesday when the city posted the position online. Below you'll find all the information you need if you were thinking about applying.

The ambassadors will handle “low-risk calls” for service and other tasks to free up sworn officers to do more intense police work.

They will do things like write police reports, direct traffic, answer citizen questions and other administrative duties.

As for brass tacks, the job posting says the positions pays between $14.38 and $16.24 an hour. Oh, and you will be subject to random drug tests.

The Marietta City Council unanimously approved funding the $700,000 program at its June 14 meeting.

Marietta police spokesman Chuck McPhilamy said it is too soon to see who, if anyone, has applied, but he said about 15 or 20 people have reached out on social media asking about the position.

According to the city’s FAQ attached to the posting, PSAs will generally work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. or 3 to 11 p.m., with city holidays off.

When it comes to tattoos and other body art, the ambassadors must follow the city’s policy, which is generally to cover up any exposed pieces of body art.

Expect an interview, written exercise, background check, credit check, criminal history check, physical exam, initial drug screening, psychological exam and polygraph exam.

You have until July 3 to apply. Here are the qualifications:

• A high school diploma or GED
• At least 18 years old at the time of hiring
• Experience with a military, law enforcement or corrections agency preferred, though you wouldn't be allowed to carry a weapon
• Good physical condition
• A valid Georgia driver's license with a "satisfactory" seven-year driving history and no DUIs in the last 5 years because you will be given a department vehicle
• The ability to to use a PC and Microsoft Office software like Word
• The ability to use a police radio
• "Outstanding written and verbal communication skills and interpersonal skills"
• Acceptable SAT/ACT score or an an approved substitute; the list and scores of can be found online