Police Officer - Lateral Entry

Police Officer

The City of La Habra is offering a Police Officer position with a $20,000 signing bonus. This opportunity is for lateral candidates who are currently employed as a Peace Officer in good standing by a California-authorized jurisdiction, have completed their Field Training Program, and possess or qualify for a California P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate. Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. To be considered, you must meet the outlined qualifications and submit your application early as this position may close at any time without notice.

The City of La Habra, located in Orange County, is a community that values partnerships with the community, proactive crime prevention, community education, and effective police work. The Police Department offers various services including Patrol, SWAT, Traffic, General and Special Investigations, School Resource Officers, and Canine units.

Examples of duties include patrolling assigned areas, enforcing laws and regulations, preventing and investigating crime, and carrying out special assignments in the protection of life and property. The work schedule may include extended hours, weekends, evenings, holidays, on-call, and overtime.

Qualifying knowledge, skills, and abilities include possession of a P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate, a valid Class C California driver license, acceptable driving record, and evidence of insurance. The testing process includes an oral interview, polygraph, background investigation, psychological examination, and a medical examination including drug/alcohol screening.

Physical tasks and work environment conditions include working both inside and outside in various climates, encountering slippery surfaces, dust, dirt, and odors, and being exposed to noise from traffic and police radio. The position requires availability to work weekends, evenings, holidays, on-call, and overtime. Physical demands include constant arm and leg movements, fine finger dexterity, use of both hands, driving, standing, and sitting for long periods of time. Bending, stooping, lifting, running, squatting, and climbing are also required. The incumbent must be able to lift up to 75 pounds, carry, drag, pull, and push objects and persons weighing at least 165 pounds; stand for extended periods of time; run for extended periods of time; distinguish colors and observe and recognize people, vehicles, and environmental conditions during the day and night; recall details concerning incidents, people, and occurrences to write thorough, accurate, and complete reports; hear radio transmissions in noisy environments; maintain composure and good judgment while under stress.

The selection process may include an oral interview, polygraph examination, background check, medical examination, and psychological evaluation. Candidates may be appointed at Step "B" or higher depending on qualifications and experience. New lateral police officers hired by the City on or after July 1, 2017, are eligible for a signing bonus of $10,000, paid in two installments. The first $5,000 installment will be paid upon hire and the second $5,000 installment will be paid after successful completion of the required probationary period.