Police Officer - Lateral​/Academy Trained

Overview

The Fullerton Police Department is dedicated to the Prevention of Crime and Disorder, Protection of Life and Liberty, and the relentless Pursuit of Justice.

PREVENT - PROTECT - PURSUE

Why Fullerton PD:
The Fullerton Police Department believes in and utilizes a Community-based policing philosophy, which follows the principle that when communities and law enforcement engage in communication and cooperation, we can better serve the community as a whole. Personnel are involved in all aspects of the community, including schools, neighborhoods, and community organizations. Law enforcement is a noble and honorable calling that requires integrity, honesty, dedication, and a commitment to serving our community.

With a complement of approximately 180 employees, 125 sworn and 55 civilian positions, our department is made up of men and women who embody these qualities. We pride ourselves on our family environment, where you are an integral part of our mission.

APPLY TODAY!

• Future across-the-board increases: 4% in July 2026
  , 4% in July 2027
• 6% Longevity Pay after your 5th year of City employment
• 10% Longevity Pay after your 9th year of City employment (years of experience with another law enforcement agency counts toward service years)

* See the new Memorandum of Agreement for details, as well as additional benefits information.

The City of Fullerton is seeking experienced Police Officers to fill multiple vacancies. Under general supervision, performs sworn police duties in the prevention of crime and the enforcement of law and order; performs police patrol, investigation, traffic regulation, special assignments, and other law enforcement activities, and performs related work as required.

Police Officer I $7,436 - $10,463 per mo.

Police Officer II $7,622 - $10,725 per mo.

Police Officer III $8,143 - $11,457 per mo.

Refer to the job description to view additional requirements for advancement. Years of sworn law enforcement experience with another agency counts toward service years.

Requirements for a Lateral or Academy Trained Police Officer:

• Graduation from high school; and
• Possession of a valid POST Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced certificate; or
• Graduation from a POST-certified academy within the last three years; or
• Completion of a POST-sponsored recertification course (required if you have not been employed with a California law enforcement agency within the last three years or within three years of graduation from a POST-certified academy).
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule to accommodate City needs. Shift work and work on weekends and holidays is required. Incumbents are subject to overtime and callback.
• Must be able to pass a department pre-employment screening and background.
• Lateral transfers from other agencies must possess a Basic POST Certificate at the time of appointment.
• Valid Class C California Driver's License and acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout employment.

Candidates must attach a valid POST Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced certificate, proof of POST recertification, or proof of completion for a POST academy within the last three years to the application. Candidates who successfully pass the application review will be invited to participate in a department interview. Please review the Police Officer job description in full.

For questions about our Police Department or the hiring process, contact Corporal Justin Melendez at JMelendez.

Fullerton is a vibrant city known for its diverse and welcoming community, rich cultural scene, and charming atmosphere. The city offers a dynamic energy with parks, a bustling downtown, and educational institutions. The City provides attractive compensation and benefits packages, opportunities for professional development and advancement, and a culture that values diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis and will remain on file for six months. After six months, applicants are encouraged to re-apply. Employment offers are conditional upon successful completion of a medical examination and, for safety-sensitive classifications, a drug screen. A one-year probationary period applies for new hires. Public employees are disaster service workers and must take the related oath or affirmation.

U.S. citizenship or lawful work authorization is required. The provisions of this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

The City of Fullerton is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, age, ancestry, national origin, political or religious affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, or other non-job related characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with qualified disabilities; contact the Human Resources Office at  prior to the filing deadline. We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon…