POLICE SPECIALIST (LATERAL) 2217

City of Los Angeles; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and dental plans

Annual paid vacations

Sick leave

Retirement system

Job summary

The City of Los Angeles is seeking a Police Specialist, responsible for maintaining order, enforcing laws, and engaging with community members. Candidates must possess a California Basic P.O.S.T. Certificate, be at least 21 years old, and legally authorized to work in the U.S.

This role involves active problem solving, community organization, and police duties such as making arrests and issuing citations. Exciting opportunities await in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Must possess a current California Basic P.O.S.T. Certificate at the time of application.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Must be 21 years of age at the time of hire.

Responsibilities

• Maintain order and enforce laws as a police officer.
• Work with community members and neighborhood associations.
• Prepare reports and provide information to the public.

Skills

Community organization

Problem solving

Law enforcement

Physical fitness

Education

California Basic P.O.S.T. Certificate

Job description

Note Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change. Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer. Check www.JoinLAPD.com for details.

DUTIES

As a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department, a Police Specialist maintains order, enforces laws and ordinances, and protects life and property; works with neighborhood associations and community members as a planner, community organizer, problem solver and information link; issues citations, makes arrests, prepares reports, and provides information to the public and departmental units; and does related work.

REQUIREMENTS

• Possess a current California Basic P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certificate at the time of application; or have standing as an LAPD Line Reserve Officer with Certified Designated level 1 (CDL) status; or a Basic Course Waiver issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training; and
  Meet other standards including those pertaining to vision, physical capability, health conditions, and background applicable to Police Officer. You must also be 21 years of age at the time of hire.
• Be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.

PROCESS NOTE

• In addition to the regular City application, all applicants MUST complete the entry‑level Peace Officer Supplemental Questionnaire at the time of filing. The entry‑level Peace Officer Supplemental Questionnaire is located within the Supplemental Questions section of the City application. Applicants who fail to complete the Supplemental Questionnaire will not be considered further in this examination, and their application will not be processed.
• Applicants MUST review the corresponding "Essential Duties and Work Conditions for Entry‑level Peace Officers" for critical, detailed information about the entry‑level Peace Officer position duties and work conditions. The document is available online at https://personnel.lacity.gov/doc.cfm?get=EntryLevelPeaceOfficerDuties.
• As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver’s license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required at the time of appointment. Applicants will be disqualified or deemed ineligible for hire if their DMV record reflects three or more moving violations and/or at‑fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation within the last 36 months in any state or jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles reserves the right to issue a notice of disqualification or ineligibility at any time before a final job offer is extended.
• Candidates MUST currently meet or be able to meet all standards set forth by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (CA POST) to be considered for the position of Police Specialist.
• Any history of illegal drug use may be evaluated during the background investigation and can result in disqualification depending on the type of substance, frequency, and recency of use. Ongoing compliance with the City’s drug and alcohol policies is required as a condition of employment.
• Because this class has been designated as Safety Sensitive in accordance with City Policy, a drug and alcohol screening test shall be required prior to appointment and during employment.
• Applicants will be disqualified from the Police Specialist examination if any of the following events apply: (1) they have been decertified by the California POST Commission by a revocation or voluntary surrender of their certification; (2) they are ineligible to serve as a peace officer pursuant to the provisions of California Government Code section 1029; or (3) they fail to requalify for POST certification or obtain a valid waiver at the time of submission of their employment application for the position of Police Specialist.
• Candidates must comply with all current Department grooming and appearance policies, including, but not limited to policies related to tattoos and/or brandings, as outlined in the LAPD Manual Section 605 , Airport Police Manual Chapter 6 , and LA Port Police Policy Manual Section 1044 .
• Candidates completing the selection process are required to provide proof of qualifying documentation. Applicants must attach a copy of their current California Basic P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certificate, a copy of their proof of standing as an LAPD Line Reserve Officer with Certified Designated level 1 (CDL) status, or a copy of their Basic Course Waiver issued by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training to their online application at the time of filing in the Attachments section. Failure to attach a copy at the time of filing will result in disqualification and the application will not be processed.
• To be considered for the Police Specialist position, all applicants must attach a copy of their current, official CA POST Profile to their online application at the time of filing in the Attachments section for verification. Failure to attach at the time of filing will result in disqualification and the application will not be processed.

WHERE TO APPLY & APPLICATION DEADLINE

The selection process is started by completing two separate Public Safety online applications. The first can be submitted by creating a profile and completing the application on myPD.joinlapd.com. After the myPD application has been submitted, a Government Jobs application must be submitted. This second application can be accessed using the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity. When you are viewing the online job bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and select the "Apply" icon.

SELECTION PROCESS

The examination will consist of a qualifying multiple‑choice test, a qualifying physical abilities test (PAT), and an interview. The qualifying multiple‑choice test will evaluate Judgment and Decision Making and Written Communication, including spelling, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and clarity. Your passing score does not expire. The multiple‑choice test will be proctored and administered in person. Candidates will be notified by e‑mail of the date, time, and location of the multiple‑choice test, which will be held in a single half‑day session in Los Angeles.

Candidates unable to appear in person for the multiple‑choice test may request to test remotely (i.e., at home) by following the instructions provided in their test notice. Remote testing requires a computer with a working webcam and microphone, a reliable internet connection, and a private, distraction‑free testing environment. Failure to submit a request by the deadline will confirm attendance at the scheduled in‑person session.

All candidates who receive a passing score on the multiple‑choice test will be invited to participate in a qualifying Physical Abilities Test (PAT). The qualifying PAT evaluates Physical Capabilities, including the ability to perform physically demanding tasks under stressful conditions, while maintaining endurance, agility, and strength necessary for law enforcement duties. Candidates invited to participate in the PAT will be required to complete four events: maximum sit‑ups in one minute, 300‑meter sprint, maximum push‑ups in one minute, and 1.5‑mile run. To complete the PAT, you must attempt all four events. Failure to attempt any event will result in a failing score for the entire test. Your passing score will expire after 12 months. Candidates will be notified by e‑mail of the date, time, and location of the PAT, which will be held in a single half‑day session in Los Angeles.

Candidates who pass the PAT will be invited for an Interview. In the interview, the following competencies may be evaluated: Experience, Judgment and Decision Making (Problem Solving Ability); Initiative; Stress Tolerance; Job Interest (Interest/Motivation); Interpersonal Skills; Community Relations (Community Involvement/Awareness), including cultural sensitivity and community‑oriented policing practices with the ability to interact respectfully, professionally, and effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds; and Oral communication (Communication Skills). Your interview score will determine your rank on the eligible list. Your passing score will expire after 12 months. The interview will be conducted in person. Candidates will be notified by e‑mail of the date, time, and location of the interview, which will be held in Los Angeles.

Candidates unable to appear in person for the interview may request a virtual interview conducted remotely (i.e., at home) by following the instructions provided in their interview notice. Remote interview requires a computer with a working webcam and microphone, a reliable internet connection, and a private, distraction‑free testing environment. Failure to submit a request by the deadline will confirm attendance at the scheduled in‑person interview.

ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION

BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: The investigation begins with completion of a Personal History Statement (PHS) and will include fingerprinting and a background interview. The investigation also includes checks of employment, police, financial, education, and military records and interviews with family members, neighbors, supervisors, co‑workers, and friends. Findings are valid for 12 months. A polygraph examination will be conducted prior to your field investigation to confirm information obtained during the selection process.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES TEST: In order to better prepare for the exam and the physical demands of the academy, you are strongly encouraged to attend the Candidate Advancement Program (CAP) regularly. Being part of CAP will significantly increase your success in the academy. CAP will also make transitioning to Academy life much easier. Information regarding CAP can be found online at https://www.joinlapd.com/pfq.

MEDICAL EVALUATION: Consists of a thorough evaluation by a City physician. It is essential that you be in excellent health, with no conditions that would restrict your ability to safely perform the work of a Police Officer. A cardiac stress test may be required. To remain medically qualified, you must maintain your good health during the period following the medical examination. Results are valid for up to 12 months, at the discretion of the City’s medical staff. Part of the medical evaluation includes a PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION by a City psychologist, consisting of written tests and an individual oral interview. Results of the oral psychological evaluation are valid for 12 months. Written psychological tests are valid for up to 24 months, at the discretion of the City’s psychological staff.

HEALTH/PHYSICAL CONDITION: You must be in excellent health, with no conditions that would restrict your ability to safely complete Academy training and perform police work for the Los Angeles Police Department. Your weight (body fat content) must be appropriate for height and build and you should be in excellent physical condition.

VISION: Your uncorrected distance vision must not exceed 20/70 in either eye and the best eye must be at least 20/40 when wearing eyeglasses. Corrected vision must be at least 20/30 in each eye. If soft contact lenses are worn, they must have been worn for at least one month and vision must be at least 20/30 in each eye while wearing them. If a LASIK procedure was performed, vision must be at least 20/30 in each eye. Candidates must also be able to accurately and quickly name colors and be free from other visual impairments that would restrict the ability to perform law enforcement duties.

CERTIFICATION AND APPOINTMENT: Before you can be hired as a Police Specialist, you must successfully complete all required steps.

ACADEMY TRAINING: You will be required to attend an abbreviated training and orientation program covering areas where LAPD training exceeds POST mandated training and areas that are LAPD specific. The training will last 12 weeks for individuals who possess a California POST certificate and patrol experience, 16 weeks for individuals with a California POST certificate and no patrol experience, and 16 weeks for individuals with out‑of‑state experience as peace officers approved by POST for equivalency. The training is conducted 40 hours per week, with full pay.

ASSIGNMENTS: Employees will receive regular appointments to the class of Police Specialist and will begin an 18‑month probationary period. Upon successful completion of the 18‑month probationary period, a Police Specialist will receive a Charter Section 1014 transfer to the classification of Police Officer. Police Specialists are assigned to a Training Officer during their field training. Your first two to three years will be spent in a patrol assignment.

JOB BENEFITS: Among the benefits provided are annual paid vacations, holidays, medical and dental plans, sick leave, and a retirement system.

NOTES

• This examination is based on a validation study and, as provided by Civil Service Commission Rule 4.20, the multiple‑choice test will not be subject to candidate inspection.
• As a covered entity under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. To request a disability accommodation, please complete the Disability Accommodation Form within 14 calendar days of the submission of the City application.
• Applications are accepted subject to review to ensure that minimum qualifications are met. Candidates may be disqualified at any time if it is determined that they do not possess the minimum qualifications stated on this bulletin.
• A final average score of 70% or higher is required to be placed on the eligible list. This score will be based on each candidate's performance on the interview.
• You may waive the Multiple‑Choice Test for this Police Specialist examination if you satisfy any of the following conditions: have passed the multiple‑choice test for the Associate Community Officer exam for the City of Los Angeles on or after November 5, 2021; have successfully completed the California POST Regular Basic Course; possess a current Basic Course Waiver; have received a passing score on the FrontLine National Law Enforcement Examination administered by the National Testing Network (NTN) based on the criteria set by the City of Los Angeles; or have taken the California P.O.S.T. Pellet‑B test and earned an overall T‑score of 42 or higher. Proof of meeting one condition must be attached to the online application at the time of filing in the Attachments section.
• You may take the Police Specialist examination only once every 12 months. If you have taken the Multiple‑Choice Test and have failed or you fail to appear for any test parts within the last 12 months, you may not file for this examination at this time.
• Candidates who previously received a failing score on the Multiple‑Choice Test administered by the City of Los Angeles may have an opportunity to reapply sooner than the required 12‑month waiting period by satisfying their Multiple‑Choice Test with one of the following conditions: passing the multiple‑choice test for the Associate Community Officer exam for the City of Los Angeles on or after November 5, 2021; successfully completing the Law Enforcement Examination administered by the National Testing Network (NTN) based on the criteria set by the City of Los Angeles; or taking the California P.O.S.T. Pellet‑B test and earning an overall T‑score of 42 or higher.
• Candidates who previously received a failing score on the Physical Abilities Test and/or the Interview under this bulletin may retake these specific test parts after one month of the failed test part(s). Re‑tests are scheduled automatically for the next available appointment following this one month waiting period. Failure to appear for a scheduled re‑test will result in disqualification.
• Candidates with existing disqualifications must successfully resolve the disqualification before they may reapply. Applicants disqualified prior to June 26, 2026, solely due to polygraph results and with no disqualifying admissions may reapply to initiate a case‑by‑case review of their eligibility.

NOTICE

If you receive and accept an offer of employment to a regular position with the City of Los Angeles, your employee benefit coverage (including health and dental as well as life insurance) will commence approximately six weeks after your original regular appointment date. Not all positions in the City receive benefit coverage; you should inquire regarding the availability of employee benefits prior to accepting a position. All City employees are required to be Disaster Service Workers.

THIS EXAMINATION IS TO BE GIVEN ONLY

ON AN OPEN COMPETITIVE BASIS

The City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, creed, color, ancestry, medical condition (cancer), or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.

EEO STATEMENT

The City of Los Angeles is committed to equal employment opportunity for all. All qualified applicants, including those who are people with disabilities and members of protected classes, are encouraged to apply.