Police Recruit

City Of Tustin; Tustin (CA); On-site; Full time

Job summary

The City of Tustin Police Department is seeking applicants for the position of Police Recruit. This entry-level role offers a chance to train within a POST-certified Police Academy, with all associated costs covered by the city. Successful candidates will potentially advance to sworn Officer roles after a probation period. Applicants must meet several requirements, including age, education, and physical fitness.

Qualifications

• Must be 21 years old at appointment.
• Excellent physical condition; capable of passing agility tests.
• Valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.

Responsibilities

• Attend a 6-month POST certified Police Academy.
• Perform physical activities including lifting objects up to 165 pounds.
• Maintain composure under stress.

Skills

Physical fitness

Fluent in English

Good moral character

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

NEW SALARY EFFECTIVE JULY 1, 2025 - $36.22/hour

The City of Tustin Police Department is currently seeking applicants for Police Recruit. This is an entry-level position where new hires will attend a 6-month POST certified Police Academy paid for by the City.

This recruitment is ongoing and may close at any time.

THE DEPARTMENT

The City of Tustin Police Department operates under a community policing philosophy with approximately 100 sworn positions. Officers have opportunities to gain exposure to various municipal police activities, including Patrol, Investigation, Field Training, K-9, Motors, Gang Reduction, Directed Enforcement, Professional Standards & Training, and School Resources.

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants must pass each component to proceed. Notification of status will be provided.

1. Written Exam – Pass/Fail
2. Physical Agility Exam – Pass/Fail
3. Oral Board Interview
4. Background Investigation and Polygraph Examination
5. Police Chief's Interview
6. Psychological and Medical Examinations (upon conditional offer)

Successful candidates will be placed on an eligibility list valid for one year. The process typically lasts 6-9 months.

***IMPORTANT*** A thorough background check and polygraph will be conducted. Recent illegal activities may disqualify applicants. A pre-employment medical, psychological evaluation, and drug screen are required after a conditional offer.

Candidates will be appointed as non-sworn personnel while attending a POST-certified Police Academy. Upon graduation and meeting all requirements, incumbents may be promoted to sworn Police Officer. A probationary period of approximately 6 months is required after appointment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Age: Must be 21 years old at appointment.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Physical: Excellent physical condition; capable of performing all police duties, including passing agility tests and medical evaluations. Normal hearing and color vision; vision 20/100 correctable to 20/20; weight proportional to height.
• Authorization: Legal right to work in the U.S.
• Background: Good moral character; no felony or moral turpitude convictions; must pass background check.
• License: Valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Language: Fluent in English, both oral and written.

The position involves physical activities such as sitting, walking, reaching, twisting, kneeling, bending, and lifting objects up to 165 pounds. Candidates must be able to run, observe details, and maintain composure under stress.

The City of Tustin is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations under the ADA.