Jobs at a police station primarily include positions such as police officer, but can also encompass civilian roles like dispatchers, administrative staff, and evidence technicians depending on the department[5]. For police officer roles, there are standard requirements and a multi-step hiring process you should be aware of.
Minimum requirements for police officer jobs typically include:
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (with application for citizenship underway in most cases)[1].
- Age: Minimum age ranges from 18 to 21 depending on the department, but most commonly 21 at the time of academy graduation[1][4][6].
- Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalency from an accredited U.S. institution; a college degree may substitute in some departments[1][4][6].
- Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is needed by the hiring date[1][2][6].
- Background: No felony convictions; some departments require no disqualifying misdemeanors as well[2][3][6].
- Other assessments: Applicants generally must pass written, oral, and physical ability tests, as well as extensive background checks, psychological and medical evaluations[5][7].
Steps in the application and selection process typically include:
- Submit an online application and proof of minimum qualifications[5].
- Take a written exam covering basic competencies[5].
- Pass a physical ability test[5].
- Background investigation and polygraph examination[5].
- Interviews (may include one or more rounds)[5].
- Final psychological and medical evaluations[5].
Additional qualifications for specialized roles—such as lateral transfers, investigators, or command staff—often include prior experience, POST certification, or additional training[5]. Civilian jobs at a police station generally focus more on relevant experience and education pertinent to the role, and always require passing a background check.
References
- [1] Police Officer Requirements | City of San Diego Official Website
- [2] Qualifications and Requirements – Supreme Court Police
- [3] How To Become Police Officer in California (And Salary Info) – Indeed
- [4] Qualifications – Join LAPD
- [5] Join the San Diego Police Department
- [6] Jobs: Police Officers – California Department of State Hospitals
- [7] How Do I Become a Peace Officer? – POST – CA.gov
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