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Police Officer - Entry Level

In order to apply, you must submit your information through National Testing Networks (www.nationaltestingnetwork.com). If you have problems, please contact NTN customer services at 866-563-3882. Please note that you will still need to submit an application on CalOpps.

Description: Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work, controls traffic flow and enforces state and local regulations. Some essential duties are:

• Responds to calls for service and takes appropriate action to resolve problems
• Renders assistance to citizens in distress
• Initiates investigation of criminal or suspicious activity
• Makes arrests, issues citations, and gives warnings when appropriate
• Enforces all laws without bias
• Conducts business license checks
• Promotes crime prevention and disseminates security information
• Testifies accurately and honestly in court

Education: Graduation from a U.S. High School or equivalent is required.  Additional education at the college level is preferred.

Licenses:  Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license by the time of hire, and ability to maintain the valid license.

Physical Requirement: Meet standards of adequate physical stature, endurance and agility. Vision: • 20/100 correctable to 20/30, with adequate depth perception and color vision. If soft contacts are worn, no limit on uncorrected distance visual acuity provided soft lenses have been worn for at least six months prior to the physical examination.

Background: • As part of the selection process, successful candidates will undergo a stringent background investigation which will include: confirming all information provided by the candidates, a polygraph test and psychological and medical examinations. Candidates may be disqualified at any point in this process. Felony Convictions: • State and Federal Law require that all Police Officers be free from felony conviction and domestic violence. Citizenship: • Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or resident aliens that are eligible and have applied for U.S. Citizenship. 

Police Officer

Description:  Performs law enforcement and crime prevention work, controls traffic flow and enforces state and local regulations. Some essential duties are:

• Responds to calls for service and takes appropriate action to resolve problems
• Renders assistance to citizens in distress
• Initiates investigation of criminal or suspicious activity
• Makes arrests, issues citations, and gives warnings when appropriate
• Enforces all laws without bias
• Conducts business license checks
• Promotes crime prevention and disseminates security information
• Testifies accurately and honestly in court

Qualifications: Must either be currently employed as a sworn Peace Officer in California and have successfully passed an FTO program, or have completed a Certified POST Basic Academy.

Education: Graduation from a U.S. High School or equivalent is required.  Additional education at the college level is preferred.

Licenses:  Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California driver’s license by the time of hire, and ability to maintain the valid license.

Physical Requirement: Meet standards of adequate physical stature, endurance and agility. Vision: • 20/100 correctable to 20/30, with adequate depth perception and color vision. If soft contacts are worn, no limit on uncorrected distance visual acuity provided soft lenses have been worn for at least six months prior to the physical examination.

Background: • As part of the selection process, successful candidates will undergo a stringent background investigation which will include: confirming all information provided by the candidates, a polygraph test, fingerprinting, psychological and medical examinations, including a drug screening. Candidates may be disqualified at any point in this process. Felony Convictions: • State and Federal Law require that all Police Officers be free from felony conviction and domestic violence. Citizenship: • Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or resident aliens that are eligible and have applied for U.S. Citizenship.

SALARY:  Step A ($120,598.79) to Step E ($146,552.90) annually. Officers can earn up to an additional 27.5% above the base salary through qualifying incentives, such as specialty pay (5%), evening differential (5%), bilingual pay (5%), Master Officer pay (2.5%), and Master's degree incentive (10%). This results in potential annual compensation of approximately $153,763 at Step A to approximately $186,851 at Step E. 

A Dispatcher II is a civilian employee of the Police Department who performs a variety of tasks in the Department’s Support Services Division. The Dispatcher II acts as the Department’s primary dispatcher, receiving and relaying incoming calls for emergency and non-emergency assistance; dispatching police units; operating a variety of telecommunications equipment including radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch systems; status monitoring, records and file maintenance in a computer-aided environment; and entry level dispatch training. A Dispatcher II may be assigned to work various hours, shifts, holidays, weekends and overtime.

Additional duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: prioritize requests for service based upon available resources, receive radio requests and handle accordingly, type, process and file a wide variety of reports and materials including memos, letters, complaints, declarations, warrants, citations, crime and traffic reports.  Assists Department personnel and the public in person and by phone performing record checks, collecting fees and mailing requested reports to outside agencies in accordance with established regulations. 

QUALIFICATIONS

Have a combination of education and work experience, including a minimum of one year of dispatch work; two years general office work involving typing of varied materials, public contact, general filing and basic record keeping; type at least 40 wpm (net).  Have knowledge of business English, spelling; modern office practices and procedures; record keeping. Ability to dispatch police units quickly and effectively; work under pressure; exercise independent judgment; work with minimal supervision; make sound decisions in emergency situations; learn assigned clerical tasks readily and to adhere to prescribed routine; write English legibly; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public; operate computer-aided dispatch system, 911 emergency telephone, and other multi-line telephone systems, various law enforcement telecommunications systems, radio console with headsets and handsets, computer keyboards, cameras, intercoms, security. Willingness to work varying shifts and radio dispatching skills. 

SPECIAL EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION

This is a one-year, limited-term assignment, with the possibility of extension based on budget, departmental needs and approval. The position will require a minimum of 24.5 hours and up to a maximum of 39.5 hours per week. The work schedule may include nights, weekends, and holidays. Shift schedules are reviewed every four months and are subject to change.

APPLICATION

Apply online HERE. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a City employment application. Typing certification of 40 wpm net (5 minute test taken within the last 12 months) must be submitted with application.  Certificates will only be accepted from a recognized business, adult school, or employment agency. Online typing test results will not be accepted. Applications received without a valid typing certificate, or not meeting the minimum words per minute (40 wpm net) will not be considered and applicants will not be contacted to correct the deficiency. Currently employed lateral applicants from a POST certified agency are not required to submit a typing certificate.

SELECTION PROCESS

This recruitment is open until filled. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis. You must ensure complete submission of employment application and typing certificate as recruitment may close at any time.  Priority will be given to qualified lateral applicants. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications may be invited to take an online Dispatcher test and will be notified by email of their scheduled testing date.  The most qualified applicants based on background and experience as evidenced by their application, and those with a passing score on the online test, may be invited for an oral board interview, which is weighted 100%.  To be placed on an eligibility list, an applicant must receive a passing score of 70 or more from each panel member.

A thorough background check, as well as a physical, drug screen, psychological evaluation, and polygraph exam will be conducted on the top candidates prior to appointment consideration.  Failure to achieve a qualifying score on any portion of the examination process will eliminate a candidate from further consideration.

IMMIGRATION REFORM AND CONTROL ACT

To comply with the Immigration Reform and Control Act, all new employees are required to provide proof of U.S. citizenship or authorization to work in the United States on their first day of employment.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Pleasant Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), requests for special accommodations during any stage of the examination process should be made in advance to the Human Resources Department.

Questions about this recruitment? Contact Sgt. Ron Priebe, (925) 288-4644, rpriebe@pleasanthillpd.org or Colleen Duran, HR Analyst, (925) 671-5294, cduran@phillca.gov 

Applications are being accepted for the position of Police Officer ~ Lateral Transfer, Academy Graduate, and Academy Attendee with the City of Pacifica.

THIS IS A CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT.

This job posting is for lateral transfer, academy graduate, and academy attendee only and NOT for entry-level applicants.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN.

At the City of Pacifica, we are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. To us, equal opportunity employment is not just about compliance, it’s about who you are, how you can help our City and who you want to be. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and residents.

The Pacifica Police Department is responsible for all functions related to law enforcement and crime prevention and is made up of several divisions that carry out specialized duties to help the department perform as a cohesive whole. Those divisions are Field Services, Investigations, Communications and Records. The City of Pacifica Police Officers operate at the heart of the community, ensuring the safety of those who work, live, and visit the City. Staff includes thirty-seven (37) full-time positions and (4) part-time support positions.

Together, they come together to carry out the Police Department mission …"to protect and serve the members of our community with the highest level of commitment, ethics and professionalism.” 

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, to promote community order, to protect life and property, to prevent crime, to maintain order, to enforce laws, ordinances, and constitutional mandates, to do investigative work in detection of crime, to perform public service tasks, while working varying hours and shifts, and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an entry level, sworn position serving the city of Pacifica maintaining and fostering high ethical, and professional standards within the police department and throughout the community.

Responsible for protecting life and property while enforcing the California Penal Code, California Vehicle Code and Pacifica Municipal Codes

SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXECUTED

Receive general supervision from the Police Sergeant, Police Corporal, Police Captain and/or the Chief of Police.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDING BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Protect life and property through patrolling assigned areas.
• To maintain law and order.
• Answer calls for service from citizens regarding criminal activity and other matters relating to the safety of the community.
• Investigate crimes through contact with victims, suspects, and witnesses collecting, processing, and storing evidence.
• Monitor traffic to prevent accidents.  Enforces Vehicle Code laws and promotes traffic movement throughout the city.
• Investigate traffic accidents.
• Issues citations or warnings as appropriate.
• Give assistance to the injured.
• Make arrests.
• Issue citations or warnings as appropriate.
• Guard prisoners.
• Question suspects.
• Note and report unsafe conditions.
• Prepare evidence and appear in court.
• Search for stolen property and lost persons.
• Give information to the public regarding laws, ordinances, traffic safety, directions, and available public services.
• Document activities with complete, clear, and concise written reports and correspondence.
• Interact with social agencies, schools, families and juveniles regarding juvenile matters.
• Assist citizens, give directions, and promote community relations.
• Maintain effective working relationships with other law enforcement agencies, employees, and the public.
• Maintain assigned equipment.
• Protect the life, property, public order, and constitutional rights of all community members.
• Adhere to the California Peace Officers Standards and Training Code of Ethics.
• Maintain a level of physical fitness which meets job requirements.
• Perform other duties or projects as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
 

Knowledge of

• Principles and practices of law enforcement services and program administration.
• Pertinent local, State and Federal rules, regulations, and laws.
• Criminal law as it relates to the apprehension, arrest, and prosecution of law violators and the collection of evidence.
• City of Pacifica streets, neighborhoods, and municipal code.
• Departmental policies and procedures
• Modern office procedures and computer equipment.
• Use of firearms and other modern police equipment and communications and information systems related to law enforcement.

Skill/Ability to

• Analyze and prioritize situations and adopt effective courses of action while giving due regard to protocols, procedures, surrounding hazards and circumstances.
• Interpret and apply city policies, procedures, rules and regulations and police department general orders.  
• Establish and maintain effective community relations on both an individual and group basis.
• To read, comprehend, explain, and apply complex issues of law derived from a variety of sources to include code books, computer screens, and other printed material.
• Drive a motor vehicle under emergency conditions and to hear verbal communications at normal speaking tones via radio and telephone and verbalize succinctly prepare and write accurate and factual reports.
• Qualify in the use of firearms and defense tactics on a periodic basis.
• Remain current and meet all post guidelines.
• Write accurate, clear, concise, factual reports.
• Maintain cooperative relationships with other employees, supervisors, public officials and employees of other non-police organizations and agencies, as well as the public to be served.
• Meet and maintain POST standards.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is:
 

Experience: none
 

Training: High school graduate or equivalent qualification, and 30 semester units from an accredited college or university desired (not required)
 

Certification: Must pass a comprehensive physical examination, meeting the standards established by the California Commission on Peace Officers Standards & Training (POST)
 

License: Possession and maintenance of a California Class C driver’s license and have a satisfactory driving record.
 

Minimum requirements for lateral entry officers:

• Must meet all minimum requirements for entry level officer with the exception of written and agility examination requirements.
• Must possess a POST Basic Certificate.
• A minimum of one-year satisfactory past police patrol experience within the past three years.
• Must have no record of felony criminal convictions or misdemeanor convictions that could affect credibility as a witness in a court of law.
• Vision and hearing capabilities consistent with guidelines by POST and/or the City.
• Must be of good moral character to be determined by a thorough background investigation, which will be conducted under POST guidelines.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Physical Skills

Vision adequate to operate vehicles and equipment, read instructions and follow directions, read maps and small print, detect subtle shades of color; hearing adequate to distinguish mechanical noises, converse on radio, telephone and in person at distances of up to 50 feet, and detect unusual sounds; voice volume and speech clarity to command during an emergency; body mobility adequate to operate emergency equipment and perform required duties; stamina to perform administrative functions and to meet physical and mental demands during an emergency; use of hands and fingers adequate for operation of special equipment and weapons, writing, typing and computer related functions; ability to lift heavy equipment, as needed in emergency conditions.

Intermittently twist to reach equipment surrounding desk; perform simple and power grasping and fine manipulation; bend, squat and kneel during inspection of crime scene or conducting building searches; climb stairs and/or ladders while in the field; twist while making arrests; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation; run and walk; use telephone, and communicate through written means; continuously wear utility belt and other police equipment of 30 pounds; and intermittently carry weight of 100 pounds or less.

CITY OF PACIFICA

Invites you to apply for the position of

POLICE OFFICER - Trainee

If you are on the path to becoming a police officer, and would like to attend the POST academy to graduate and obtain your POST Certification,  this is the perfect opportunity to join our team!

Take this opportunity to explore our dynamic, full-service, community police department. The position is intended for you to attend a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy and receive the academic and physical training resulting in graduation and certification required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer. 

Apply today!!  

DEFINITION

Under immediate supervision, attend a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy and receive the academic and physical training resulting in graduation and certification required for appointment to the classification of Police Officer.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This classification is structured for incumbents hired with the purpose of becoming a sworn police officer.  Police Officer Trainees are hired into this position for the period prior and during the time they are assigned to a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy.  Upon successful completion of training at the academy and upon the availability of a Police Officer position, Police Officer Trainees will be sworn in and appointed to the classification of Police Officer at the beginning of the following pay period. 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receive immediate supervision from higher level supervisory or management staff and from training staff at a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS – INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Attend a POST-certified Basic Law Enforcement Academy designed to provide an overview of the criminal justice system including knowledge of laws, police procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid and physical fitness.
• Receive training to develop an awareness of Police Department functions, as well as the responsibilities of Police Officers and how those responsibilities relate to field operations.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Knowledge of:

• English usage, grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Basic principles of business writing and basic report writing
• Principles and practices of good customer service
• Techniques and practices of effective interpersonal communication
• Principles and practices of safety management

Skills/Ability to:

• Successfully complete a POST-Basic Law Enforcement Academy including classroom instruction, physical agility and use of firearms.
• Learn proper police procedures and methods.
• Observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and places.
• Think and act quickly in emergencies and judge situations and people accurately.
• Understand and interpret laws and regulations.
• Prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written reports.
• Become proficient in self-defense techniques.
• Become proficient in the care and use of firearms.
• Follow oral and written instructions.
• Deal courteously and effectively with the general public.

Experience and Training Guidelines

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to qualify is:

Experience: None required.

Training: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade (High School diploma). Completion of 30 semester units from an accredited college or university (60 units or more is preferred).

Licenses: Possession of and ability to maintain a valid California Driver’s License.

Necessary Special Qualifications:

• At the time of application, all applicants must show proof of passing the PELLETB test with a minimum T-Score of 50 and successful completion of the WSTB test (physical agility).  These tests can be taken by visiting www.theacademy.ca.gov.  All testing information including practice tests can be located on the site.
• Free of any felony convictions.
• A citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship (Government Code Para. 1031).
• Age, not less than 21 years at time of appointment.
• Vision in each eye, correctable to at least 20/30.
• Must pass a background investigation.
• Meet all regulatory requirements for becoming a Peace Officer with a California P.O.S.T agency.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Physical Skills

Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, squat, stoop, reach, crawl, twist, climb, and lift 50 pounds. 

Work Environment

Exposure to cold, heat, extreme noise, outdoors, confining workspace, electrical hazards, chemicals, dust, toxic waste, mechanical hazards, and explosive materials.

Additional 3.5% salary increases scheduled for January 2026

Join a department that values your experience, supports your growth, and gives you the opportunity to truly make a difference. Located on the San Francisco Peninsula and bordering Silicon Valley, the Belmont Police Department is known for its strong community relationships and proud Tradition of Service.

Enhance Your Compensation with Specialized Roles

We recognize the skills and commitment that come with specialized roles. Officers in these assignments receive additional compensation:

• Detective / School Resource Officer – 2.5% of base salary

• Motorcycle Officer – 2.5% of base salary

• Field Training Officer – 2% of base salary

• Bilingual Pay – Up to $150/month

• K-9 Handler – Receive 7 hours of overtime per pay period

• IT Super User – 5% of base salary

The City of Belmont is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Applicants with a disability who may require special accommodation in any phase of the application or selection process should advise Human Resources immediately, lkirby@belmont.gov or (650) 595-7452

Continue your journey in law enforcement with the Mountain View Police Department
to make a meaningful impact in our diverse, engaged community.

We’re looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals who share our commitment to Community Policing—creating strong, lasting relationships, building trust, and working proactively with residents and businesses to address community needs. Our officers embody this approach by prioritizing safety, engaging collaboratively with the public, and delivering results that enhance the quality of life for those we serve.

Upon hire, lateral Police Officers will enter the department’s field training program. The duration of this program may be adjusted based on each officer’s prior experience and performance. We encourage interested applicants to explore more about our department on our website and review the full job description here.

Submit your resume, application and California Basic POST Certificate online at GovermentJobs.com or to the Human Resources Department; City of Mountain View, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA 94041, (650)903-6309. Please provide a valid email address on your application. This recruitment will be open on a continuous basis with a first review date of  Friday, August 1, 2025. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply early.

*BONUS OPPORTUNITY
The $5,000 new hire bonus is reserved for new hires; current City of Mountain View employees are not eligible. Bonus is paid in two payments; $2,500 in your first paycheck and $2,500 following successful completion of the probationary period. 

Fine Print. 
Depending on the number of applications, the above process may be altered. Candidates with a disability who may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should advise the Human Resources Department upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request. The City of Mountain View is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Candidates on the eligibility list must successfully pass a medical exam, psychological screening and an extensive background investigation conducted under POST guidelines, including a polygraph and a DOJ and FBI fingerprint check, prior to employment.  A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose a conviction will result in disqualification or termination. Candidates with a disability which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should advise the Human Resources Division upon submittal of application. The City of Mountain View is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). The Mountain View Police Department is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for law enforcement agencies. 

NOTE: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

The Officers are generalists who typically handle cases from the first response, through investigation, and onto final disposition. In addition, Officers frequently assist the Chief of Police with administrative duties and consult closely with him in the formulation of Departmental policies, procedures, and tactics. The Department is well-equipped and well-trained. The Reserve Officer is assigned to one of four patrol shifts or other duties as assigned. Officers frequently work alone and may be required to make decisions regarding appropriate courses of action without direct supervision. The Department is committed to providing a high level of training to those Officers who desire to increase their level of proficiency.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS RECRUITMENT, CLICK JOB URL OR JOB PDF BELOW.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Police Officer ~ Lateral Transfer with the City of South San Francisco.

THIS IS A CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT. As a continuous recruitment, please ensure timely and complete submission of employment application and supporting documents.

This job posting is for lateral-transfer only and NOT for academy graduate, academy attendee, or entry-level applicants.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN.

THE DEPARTMENT:

The City of South San Francisco has 85 sworn and 35 civilian positions. The Department’s philosophy is one of participative management, with a high degree of emphasis on training and education. It employs team and community-oriented policing and problem-solving concepts and recognizes the importance of staying contemporary with technological advances. The Department acknowledges that the responsibility for public safety and the quality of life in our neighborhood is a responsibility share with the whole community. 

A new state-of-the-art Police Department building and 9-1-1 Communications Center has opened at 1 Chestnut Avenue.  The new Police Building includes a large training room for defensive tactics, a dedicated indoor firearms range, and progressive construction incorporating the latest in Police Station design concepts.  The 9-1-1 Communications center will have the latest communications and dispatching technologies to provide improved service and response to South San Francisco residents. 

SSFPD Recruitment Video

Applications are being accepted for the position of Police Officer ~ Academy Graduate & Academy Attendee with the City of South San Francisco.

THIS IS A CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT. As a continuous recruitment, please ensure timely and complete submission of employment application and supporting documents.

This job posting is for academy graduates and academy attendees only and NOT for lateral transfer or entry-level applicants.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN.

THE DEPARTMENT:

The City of South San Francisco has 83 sworn and 35 civilian positions. The Department’s philosophy is one of participative management, with a high degree of emphasis on training and education. It employs team and community-oriented policing and problem-solving concepts and recognizes the importance of staying contemporary with technological advances. The Department acknowledges that the responsibility for public safety and the quality of life in our neighborhood is a responsibility shared with the whole community.

A new state-of-the-art Police Department building and 9-1-1 Communications Center was built at 1 Chestnut Avenue, across the road from the former police building. The new Police Building includes a large training room for defensive tactics, a dedicated indoor firearms range, and progressive construction incorporating the latest in Police Station design concepts.  The 9-1-1 Communications center has the latest communications and dispatching technologies to provide improved service and response to South San Francisco residents.

SSFPD Recruitment Video