Police Officer

Job Overview

Join the City of Laguna Beach Police Department and be a guardian of our seaside haven!

We are looking for passionate individuals to embark on a thrilling career in law enforcement—protect paradise with PRIDE
!

All recruits begin under the general supervision of a Police Corporal, Sergeant, or Watch Commander. During Academy Training, candidates are hired at Step 1 with a monthly salary of $8,113 and, upon Academy Graduation, receive a step increase to Step 2 with a monthly salary of $8,528.

Recruits attend the approximately six‑month police academy training, which is intensive and requires a high degree of discipline. Recruits do not possess police officer powers or authority. After successful completion of the academy and approval by the department, recruits are appointed as probationary police officers and begin field training. Their monthly salary is then increased, and they are enrolled in the P.E.R.S. safety retirement formula of 2.7% @ 57.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. Interested candidates must submit a completed online application to be considered.

Written Examination: Submit test results from one of the following options. Scores dated within one (1) year of the application date that meet the minimum passing score will be accepted.

• National Testing Network (NTN) Frontline Law Enforcement Written Exam – Pass:
  Video 70%+, Reading 75%+, Writing 75%+
• P.O.S.T. Entry‑Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) – Pass:
  Total T‑Score 50 or higher
• If you have taken the PELLETB with another agency within the last year, you may submit a copy of your test results to meet the written exam requirement.

Physical Agility Test (PAT): Qualified applicants will be invited to the PAT when a test date is established (typically several times per year).

Panel Interview Evaluations: Candidates who successfully pass the Written Examination and Physical Agility Test will be invited to the interview evaluation.

Eligibility List: Candidates must pass all steps above to be placed on the City’s Eligibility List. Eligibility lists are valid for one (1) year from the date they are established unless exhausted sooner or extended.

• PAT & PELLETB testing is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026.

The normal duties for this position can be found in the job description for Police Officer Recruit. These duties are not exclusive or all‑inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Education: Graduation from high school or equivalent is required. College coursework in criminal justice, administration of justice, or a related field is preferred.

Experience: Some experience involving public contact work or enforcement of public safety rules and policies is preferred.

License/Certificate Requirements: Must obtain a valid California Class C or Class 3 driver’s license and provide evidence of an acceptable driving record. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Candidates who fail the interview or background process during the selection process for this position will not be eligible to reapply for twelve (12) months from the date of disqualification.

Laguna Beach is a beautiful coastal city located in Orange County, California, with a vibrant art scene and cultural events. We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages, including city‑paid health insurance for employees, alternative work schedules, wellness programs, and more. The City has a strong commitment to its employees, providing opportunities for professional growth and development through training and education programs.

The Police Department is organized into two divisions and provides general law enforcement services, including animal control and oversight and management of our local animal shelter. There are 104 full‑time positions, of which 58 are sworn personnel. The department augments its services with Reserve Police Officers, Community Volunteers, Animal Shelter Volunteers, Police Explorers, Police Cadets, and Traffic Control Aides.

A pre‑background interview will be scheduled upon successful completion of the panel interview stage. Candidates selected for this position must successfully complete a thorough background security investigation, polygraph examination, psychological screening, and pre‑employment physical examination including a drug test.

The City of Laguna Beach is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. We encourage you to inform Human Resources at least two business days prior to the first phase of the selection process if you have a disability that may require an accommodation. EEO/ADA.