Police Officer Recruit

City of Paso Robles; Paso Robles (CA); On-site; USD 110,690,000 - 132,268,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Paso Robles Police Department is recruiting for an Academy Grad/Entry Level Police Officer. Testing will take place on a rolling basis and dates will be announced by email.

This recruitment is intended for applicants not yet certified by a police academy or currently enrolled in a certified academy; graduates should apply to the Police Officer (Academy Grad/Entry Level) recruitment. Wage ranges include Academy: $38.63 per hour and Starting Officer: $46.16 per hour.

Qualifications

• Not yet certified as a law enforcement officer; training at a police academy required.
• Currently enrolled in a certified police academy.
• If already a graduate, apply to the Police Officer (Academy Grad/Entry Level) recruitment.

Job description

Testing will take place on a rolling basis. Testing dates will be announced via e-mail. Notices will only be sent once a date is scheduled. Application status updates will not be provided outside of test invitation notices.

Law enforcement is at its finest here at the City of Paso Robles Police Department. With state of the art equipment and a community-oriented proactive approach to crime, the City of Paso Robles Police Department offers a work environment unlike any in San Luis Obispo County.

Please note this recruitment is intended for those applicants who are not yet certified law enforcement officers and will require training at a police academy or are currently enrolled in a certified academy. If you have already graduated from a certified police academy, please apply to the Police Officer (Academy Grad/Entry Level) recruitment.

Wage Range

Academy: $38.63 per hour

Starting Officer: $46.16 per hour

About Paso Robles

Nestled in the heart of California’s scenic Central Coast, Paso Robles—short for El Paso de Robles, or “The Pass of the Oaks”—offers a unique blend of small-town charm, natural beauty, and modern opportunity. Originally founded around its famous mineral hot springs and rich agricultural heritage, Paso Robles has grown into a dynamic and thriving community. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, sunny days and cool evenings, ideal for both outdoor living and agricultural innovation. With its rolling hills, majestic oak trees, and panoramic vineyard views, Paso Robles provides a truly inspiring setting for work and life.

Paso Robles’ central location within San Luis Obispo County offers residents easy access to a wide array of cultural, educational, and recreational attractions. Just a short 30-minute drive south lies California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), a nationally ranked institution known for its hands‑on learning and innovation. This proximity fosters strong connections to cutting‑edge research, continuing education, and a highly educated talent pool. To the west, scenic Highway 1 leads to the iconic Hearst Castle in San Simeon, a historic landmark that draws visitors from around the world with its stunning architecture and sweeping coastal views. Within the county, residents can also enjoy the vibrant coastal towns of Morro Bay, Cambria, and Pismo Beach, as well as the eclectic energy of downtown San Luis Obispo. From wine tasting and hiking to art galleries, surf spots, and farmers’ markets, San Luis Obispo County offers an exceptional quality of life.

Today, Paso Robles is best known as a premier wine region, home to over 200 wineries producing world‑class Zinfandels, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Rhône varietals. But wine is just the beginning. The city boasts a vibrant downtown filled with boutique shopping, award‑winning restaurants, and a bourgeoning local arts scene. Cultural highlights include the Paso Robles Wine Festival, California Mid-State Fair, and a variety of community events that bring residents together year‑round. A wide array of housing options, good schools, a welcoming business environment, and proximity to outdoor destinations make it an ideal place to live and work. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to make a lifestyle change, the City of Paso Robles offers the perfect balance of opportunity, community, and California charm.

The Organization

The City of Paso Robles was incorporated in 1889 as a general law city and operates under the Council‑Manager form of government. As of January 1, 2025, the City’s population has grown to approximately 31,061, reflecting consistent growth over recent years as more residents are drawn to the City’s high quality of life, strong community identity, and comprehensive municipal services.

The City is a full‑service municipality, meaning it provides a wide range of essential public services directly to its residents. These include police and fire protection, emergency medical response, water and wastewater utilities, parks and recreation, planning and development services, public works, and community enrichment programs. The City is committed to delivering responsive, effective, and efficient services that enhance the well‑being of its residents and support a safe, sustainable, and vibrant community.

The governing body consists of a five‑member City Council: the Mayor, elected at large by the voters of the City; and four Councilmembers elected by district. Voters also elect one City Treasurer at‑large. All six elected positions are non‑partisan. The City Manager, appointed by the City Council, serves as the Chief Executive Officer and is authorized to appoint all non‑elected employees, with the exception of the City Attorney.

The City operates with a total annual budget of $148.5 million for fiscal year 2026‑27 and employs 311.97 full‑time equivalent positions across the departments of Administrative Services, City Manager’s Office, Community Development, Community Services, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, Public