POLICE SPECIALIST (LATERAL) 2217

ABOUT THE ROLE The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is seeking lateral entry candidates for the position of Police Specialist. As a sworn member of the LAPD, the Police Specialist maintains order, enforces laws and ordinances, and protects life and property. This role involves working with neighborhood associations and community members as a planner, community organizer, problem solver, and information link. Duties include issuing citations, making arrests, preparing reports, and providing information to the public and departmental units. Upon successful completion of an 18-month probationary period, Police Specialists receive a transfer to the classification of Police Officer. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Maintain order, enforce laws and ordinances, and protect life and property. - Work with neighborhood associations and community members as a planner, community organizer, and problem solver. - Serve as an information link between the community and the Department. - Issue citations and make arrests in accordance with legal standards. - Prepare detailed reports on incidents and activities. - Provide information to the public and various departmental units. - Perform related law enforcement duties as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Possess one of the following at the time of application: - A current California Basic P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Certificate; OR - 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. - Be at least 21 years of age at the time of hire. - Meet standards pertaining to vision, physical capability, health conditions, and background applicable to Police Officers. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Documentation: Applicants must attach a copy of their current CA POST Certificate, proof of LAPD Line Reserve Officer CDL status, or Basic Course Waiver, AND a current official CA POST Profile to the online application at the time of filing. Failure to attach these documents will result in disqualification. - Supplemental Questionnaire: All applicants MUST complete the entry-level Peace Officer Supplemental Questionnaire within the City application. - Drug Screening: A drug and alcohol screening test is required prior to appointment and during employment due to the Safety Sensitive designation. - Background Investigation: Includes fingerprinting, personal history statement, checks of employment/police/financial/education/military records, interviews, and a polygraph examination. - Medical and Psychological Evaluation: Candidates must pass a thorough medical evaluation (including potential cardiac stress test) and a psychological evaluation (written tests and oral interview). - Vision Requirements: Uncorrected distance vision must not exceed 20/70 in either eye, with the best eye at least 20/40. Corrected vision must be at least 20/30 in each eye. Color blindness that restricts duty performance is disqualifying. SELECTION PROCESS The examination consists of three parts: 1. Multiple-Choice Test (Qualifying): Evaluates judgment, decision-making, and written communication. Can be waived if specific criteria are met (e.g., passing certain other exams or possessing a POST waiver). 2. Physical Abilities Test (PAT) (Qualifying): Evaluates physical capabilities through four events: maximum sit-ups in one minute, 300-meter sprint, maximum push-ups in one minute, and 1.5-mile run. 3. Interview (100% Weight): Evaluates experience, judgment, initiative, stress tolerance, job interest, interpersonal skills, community relations, and oral communication. Determines rank on the eligible list. Additional Steps: - Background Investigation (including polygraph). - Medical and Psychological Evaluation. - Academy Training: 12–16 weeks abbreviated training depending on prior experience and certification status. HOW TO APPLY - Step 1: Create a profile and complete the application on myPD.joinlapd.com. - Step 2: Submit a Government Jobs application at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity. - Ensure all required documents (POST Certificate/Waiver and CA POST Profile) are attached during the initial filing. - Closing Date: Continuous. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: LAPD - Sworn - Location: City of Los Angeles, CA - Job Type: Full-Time - Probation: 18-month probationary period as Police Specialist, followed by transfer to Police Officer. - Training: 12–16 weeks of abbreviated academy training. - Initial Assignment: First two to three years typically spent in patrol. - Benefits: Annual paid vacations, holidays, medical and dental plans, sick leave, and retirement system. Benefit coverage commences approximately six weeks after appointment. - Disaster Service Worker: All City employees are required to be Disaster Service Workers.