POLICE RECRUIT

Salary : $86,023.07 Annually
Location : Police Department - 2745 Walnut Avenue, Signal Hill, CA
Job Type: Full-Time (Non-Exempt)
Job Number: 2026-0017
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 09/17/2026
Closing Date: 10/29/2026 11:59 PM Pacific


Position Description
PLEASE READ THE ENTIRE JOB BULLETIN, MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, AND THE POLICE DEPARTMENT HIRING STANDARDS BEFORE SUBMITTING YOUR EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION.
Join the City of Signal Hill Police Department for a rewarding career, where Officers care about their community and the community supports its Officers. The Department is devoted to enhancing the quality of life in the City by providing a proactive and professional level of police service, and treating all persons with fairness, respect, and dignity. Upon satisfactory completion of P.O.S.T. academy and meeting other requirements as a recruit, a Police Officer's salary is $95,041.40 - $121,299.58 annually.
The City of Signal Hill is not only a small 2.2-square-mile city. It is also a tight-knit and peaceful community that recognizes and appreciates the value of its Police Department. The Signal Hill Police Department has a state-of-the-art facility, technology, equipment, and a great relationship with the community, making us THE PLACE TO WORK in Los Angeles County.
This is a non-sworn, non-represented, civilian classification, specifically designed to train police officer candidates for eligibility as a sworn police officer with promotion to the position of police officer contingent upon satisfactory completion of police academy training and meeting all other requirements. Police recruits attend a basic police recruit academy certified by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). Position requires full-time attendance at a P.O.S.T. certified academy to prepare the recruit to assume the responsibilities of a police officer upon completion of the academy. Work may also include performing non-sworn police related tasks directly for the Police Department during non-academy hours. Academy training progress is reviewed through the formal evaluation system of the police academy by designated academy staff. Non-academy work performed at the Police Department is reviewed through conference, written reports, inspections and observations of results achieved by superior officers. Upon graduation from the academy, police recruits are elevated to sworn police officer with full salary, safety status, and benefits. All new hires must pass a 12-month probationary period to attain permanent police officer status.
Application and Selection Process
Applications and written exam scores must be received by September 16th to be considered for the Physical Agility Test scheduled tentatively for November 14, 2026.

Applications are being accepted on a continuous basis in order to meet the needs of the City.

STEP #1: SUBMIT APPLICATION

Applications must be completed and submitted online. Candidates are required to provide specific information on their education and experience as it relates to the position by completing all fields of the application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete (resumes are not accepted in lieu of application). Candidate notifications are sent via email. Please make sure your email address is correct and check your email periodically during the application process. Candidates who pass an initial application screening and submit a qualifying written exam score will be invited to continue in the selection process.


STEP #2: WRITTEN EXAMINATION

Submit test results from one of the two test options below. Scores that are dated within one (1) year of the application date and meet the minimum passing score will be accepted.

National Testing Network (NTN) FrontLine Law Enforcement Written Exam

• Passing scores: Reading - 70% or higher; and Writing - 70% or higher
• This exam is administered directly by the National Testing Network (NTN) and candidates pay a test fee for the service.
• To schedule a test, visit the National Testing Network website by clicking here . Select the City of Signal Hill Police Department and the specific position you are applying to.
• NTN will submit the scores to the City of Signal Hill Human Resources for review.
• Do NOT submit a test score if you do not meet the job qualifications.

- OR -
P.O.S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB)

• Passing score: T-Score 45 or higher
• The City of Signal Hill does not have any future test dates; however, if you have taken the PELLETB test with another agency within the last 12 months, you may submit a copy of your test results to meet the written exam requirement. Results must be on the testing agency's letterhead.
• PELLETB score must be attached to online application.

STEP #3: PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST (PAT)

Qualified applicants who complete steps 1 & 2 will be invited to the PAT.

• Candidates who are successful on the Written Exam will participate in a Physical Agility Test (PAT). The PAT is held at Rio Hondo Community College.

STEP #4: ORAL INTERVIEW
Candidates who successfully pass the PAT will be invited to the Oral Interview.
Please note the exam dates listed below are tentative and subject to change. Please regularly monitor your email for communication regarding exam dates.
Examination Plan Weight Tentative Exam Date Physical Agility Test (PAT)QualifyingNovember 14, 2026Interview90%December 2026Writing Skills Exercise10%December 2026Command Staff Interview QualifyingTBD
The City does not have, nor do we recommend, any study materials.
Example of Duties
Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act may include, but are not limited to the following characteristic duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills and other characteristics.

The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Attends a P.O.S.T. certified basic police academy designated by the City of Signal Hill to obtain formal training in police work associated with public safety and the protection of life and property.
• May perform non-sworn work in the Police Department's jail operation, communication center, property and evidence handling, service desk, community relations or any other designated department area as assigned.
• Learns to patrol assigned areas; learns to answers special calls; conducts initial and follow-up investigations; interviews victims, complainants, and witnesses; learns to answer complaints, including domestic disturbances, health code, and local ordinance violations; learns to perform surveillance activities; learns procedures for conducting chemical, drug, and alcohol testing; learns to investigate suspicious circumstances.
• Learns to enforce traffic laws; learns methods for conducting complete accident investigations; controls and directs traffic when necessary; performs crowd control, special event or riot duties; may learn and assist in crime prevention activities and the control of juvenile delinquency; counsels and educates the community; administers first aid in cases of emergency; transports, books and is responsible for the care and custody of detained persons.
• Learns procedures to obtain and process evidence; takes written statements; prepares and/or dictates required reports and maintains investigative records; serves warrants and subpoenas; may testify in court proceedings; provides information and referrals in non-criminal situations; contacts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies as warranted.

Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION: Equivalent to completion of high school.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION: Valid Class C California driver license, acceptable driving record, and evidence of insurance are required.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Completion of sixty college units of study from an accredited community college, college or university with an emphasis on criminal justice, administration of justice or related field.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS :

• U.S. citizen or resident alien who has applied for citizenship at the time of application.
• Must have reached 21st birthday upon completion of the police academy.
• Vision uncorrected at least 20/70 and correctable to 20/20 in both eyes. Normal depth perception and color vision in both eyes.
• Hearing must be normal in both ears as passed by the City's Medical Examiner.
• Height and weight must be in proper proportion.
• Ability to meet physical requirements will be established by competent authority.

***IMPORTANT*** A comprehensive background investigation and polygraph will be conducted on any eligible persons considered for hire. Recent drug usage, theft or other illegal activity may be grounds for disqualification. A pre-employment medical, psychological evaluation AND a drug screen will be conducted upon a conditional offer of employment.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of:

• Proper English grammar and vocabulary.

Ability to:

• Qualify for and satisfactorily meet the ongoing standards of a P.O.S.T. certified basic police academy.
• Learn to apply the technical, legal, administrative, and human principals involved in modern police work.
• Analyze situations quickly and objectively and determine the proper course of action including emergency situations.
• Cope with situations firmly, courteously and tactfully, with respect for the rights of others.
• Obtain information through interview, interrogation and observation and to understand and execute oral and written instructions.
• Express ideas clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing and to prepare comprehensive records and reports.
• Develop a skill and proficiency in the use and handling of firearms.
• Work effectively with co-workers, supervisor, and the public.

Physical Requirements:

• Coordination of eyes, hands, feet and limbs in performing skilled movements, such as self defense or in the use of radar devices, ETS, intoxilizers and other police equipment.
• Will exert physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling, and running.
• Operation of equipment and machinery requiring complex and rapid adjustments, such as the operation of a police vehicle or the use of firearms.
• Ability to lift, push and pull 75 to 100 pounds.

Background Investigation
A comprehensive background investigation will be conducted on all finalists, which will review and verify personal history including, but not limited to financial responsibility, criminal history, drug use history, driving record, and verification of application materials. Significant issues or omissions in the above-stated areas may be grounds for disqualification. Background investigation will include a polygraph and Livescan fingerprinting.
Conviction History
The selected candidate of a sensitive position will be subjected to a background check including Live Scan fingerprinting Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The resulting report of your conviction history (if any) will be used to determine whether the nature of your conviction (or arrest, in limited circumstances) conflicts with the specific duties and responsibilities of the job for which you are a finalist. Having a conviction history does not automatically preclude you from a job with the City.
Medical/Psychological Standards

The selected candidates must pass a pre-placement medical examination (including a drug screen test) and a psychological evaluation.

Additional Information
Verification: Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment and selection process. Note: Falsifying one's education, training, or work experience or attempted deception on the application may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities with the City of Signal Hill.


Disaster Service Workers
All City of Signal Hill employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through State and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS - WHILE IN POLICE ACADEMY TRAINING

• 96 hours of vacation leave annually
• 96 hours of sick leave annually with buy-back program
• 10 paid holidays per year (80 hours)
• 36 hours personal holiday leave per year
• 2% @ 60 retirement formula - Employees contribute 7% of the required employee contribution. Average of final three years retirement calculation. This retirement formula is available to those candidates who currently work for a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency or have worked for a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency within the last six (6) months.
• 2% @ 62 PERS retirement formula - Employees contribute 7.75% of the normal cost of the benefit . There will be no Employer Paid Member Contribution. Average of final three years retirement calculation. This formula is provided for all new PERS members and those who have been separated from a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency for more than six (6) months.
• Medical insurance - The City participates in the CalPERS health benefit program and contributes up to $1,200 per month toward medical premiums. An additional $800 is available for individuals with health, dental and/or vision premiums not fully covered with the $1,200. 75% of any monies remaining (of the $1,200) after medical premiums are paid may be applied toward optional benefits including: vision, dental, or deferred compensation plan. No cash pay-out in lieu of benefits
• Dental - City contribution of $70 per month
• Vision insurance - Employee premium paid by City
• Based on years of City service, qualified retirees may be eligible for City contribution to retiree health premium. Employees contribute 1% of their salary towards their future retiree health benefit.
• $50,000 Life Insurance Policy
• Short & Long Term Disability Plans
• Social Security Participation
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Flexible Benefits Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS - UPON GRADUATION FROM THE POLICE ACADEMY

• 96 hours of vacation leave annually
• 96 hours of sick leave annually with buy-back program
• 11 paid holidays per year (88 hours)
• 28 hours of personal leave annually
• Employees hired on or after December 4, 2010 will participate in the 3% @ 55 PERS retirement formula and contribute 9% of the required employee's share. Average of final three years retirement calculation. This retirement formula is available to those candidates who currently work for a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency or have worked for a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency within the last six (6) months
• 2.7% @ 57 PERS retirement formula. Employees will be required to contribute 14.5% of the total normal cost of the benefit. There will be no Employer Paid Member Contribution. Average of final three years retirement calculation. This formula is provided to new PERS members and those candidates who have been separated from a PERS agency or a PERS reciprocal agency for more than six (6) months
• Medical insurance - The City participates in the CalPERS health benefit program and contributes up to $1,200 per month toward medical premiums. An additional $800 is available for individuals with health, dental and/or vision premiums not fully covered with the $1,200. 75% of any monies remaining (of the $1,200) after medical premiums are paid may be applied toward optional benefits including: vision, dental, or deferred compensation plan. No cash pay-out in lieu of benefits
• Dental - City contribution of $70 per month
• Vision insurance - Employee premium paid by City
• Based on years of City service, qualified Retirees may be eligible for City contribution to retiree health premium
• Employees contribute $625 per year towards their retiree health benefit.
• $50,000 Life Insurance Policy
• Short & Long Term Disability Plans - employee paid
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Flexible Benefits Program
• Tuition Reimbursement Program or Education Incentive Program
• Advance POST Pay
• Longevity Pay
• Traffic Officers and special assignment Officers receive an additional 5.4% differential to Police Officer pay
• Patrol Officers receive 1/2 hour briefing overtime each shift (7 hours per month paid at time and a half)
• 12 hour shift, allowing three and four days off per week
• $925 annual uniform allowance for Patrol Officers
• The Police Department is a certified employer of the Department of Veterans Affairs On-the-Job-Training (VA OJT) Program. Qualified veterans are eligible to receive up to one year of GI Bill benefits while in training as a Police Officer

City of Signal Hill is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local laws.
AN EEO/ADA/VET Employer.
01


You are hereby admonished that any false statement or omission on your employment application and supplemental questions shall be cause for immediate disqualification and/or dismissal if an appointment is made. Do you understand this admonishment?

• Yes
• No

02


Are you a citizen of the United States or have you applied for U.S. citizenship?

• Yes
• No

03


Are you at least 21 years of age or within 6 months of turning 21 (i.e., are you currently at least 20-1/2 years of age?)

• Yes
• No

04


Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?

• Yes
• No

05


You must submit a qualifying written exam score in order to be considered for the Physical Agility Test (PAT). Indicate which of the following applies to you:

• I have already taken the Frontline National Exam with NTN within the last 12 months and will have the score submitted to The City of Signal Hill Police Department.
• I will schedule/take the Frontline National Exam with NTN and submit the score to The City of Signal Hill Police Department.
• I have taken the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) written exam within the last 12 months with another agency and received a Total T-Score of 45 or higher AND I have attached a copy of my score to this online application.

06


Have you sold drugs or narcotics at any time?

• Yes
• No

07


Have you used LSD, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, or any other illegal drugs at any time? (excluding marijuana)

• Yes
• No

08


If you answered 'Yes' to question 7, please provide an explanation below. If not, enter 'N/A'.
09


Do you currently have a valid California driver's license? if not, do you have a valid state-issued driver's license and do you understand that you must obtain a valid California driver's license upon hire?

• Yes
• No

10


Do you currently have motor vehicle insurance? If not, are you able to obtain motor vehicle insurance?

• Yes
• No

11


Have you had your driver's license revoked or suspended within the last 3 years?

• Yes
• No

12


Have you had 3 traffic citations within the last 12 months?

• Yes
• No

13


Have you been convicted of a felony?

• Yes
• No

14


Are you currently on probation or parole?

• Yes
• No

15


Have you ever been untruthful to a background investigator?

• Yes
• No

16


Have you ever falsified or omitted any data on personal history statements for law enforcement agencies?

• Yes
• No

17


Have you applied and tested with the City of Signal Hill for this position or any other position in the last 6 months? If so, please specify the position you applied for.
18


Please let us know how you heard about this job posting by providing the name of the resource or the website.
Required Question