SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – San Francisco Police could lose another 300 officers in the new year, even as the department struggles with as many as 500 vacancies.
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While this is a particularly high number, it’s not uncommon right now, as many public safety agencies are short staffed.
Ranging from police officers to paramedics, public safety and service agencies are looking for new recruits.
"Muni, DPW, all these public services – guess what, they're all hiring," said San Francisco Fire Captain Jonathan Baxter.
At the San Francisco Fire Department, there isn't really as much of an employee shortage at the moment compared to what the San Francisco Police Department is dealing with.
But recruitment itself has become more of a challenge recently, according to Baxter.
"What I tell people all the time when they're asking me, 'Should I be a firefighter here in San Francisco?' I say go where you're going to be happy," said Baxter. "But most happiness comes to where you grew up."
Those interested in pursuing public service should take advantage of community resources available, according to Baxter, like free community college for San Francisco Residents.
In some cases, you can even learn on the job.
"We're fortunate in the Bay Area as we have many agencies that will take people as entry-level – which means you don't have to have education or experience, they'll put you through that educational experience," he said.
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