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Drug Recognition Expert Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lateral Patrol Officer

The Dalles, OR

$80K - $96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) certification * Specialized investigative, tactical, or supervisory training * Other advanced law enforcement certifications and qualifications Benefits The City offers ...

Highway Patrol Trooper

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$30.89/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

W.A.T., Drug Recognition Expert, Defensive Tactics/Firearms Instructor, Mobile Field Force Operator, EVOI (Emergency Vehicle Operations Instructor), Honor Guard, Tactical Flight Officer (TFO ...

Police Officer - Entry

Seattle, WA · On-site

$88K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... SWAT, Drug Recognition Expert, Collision Technician, K9, Valley Independent Investigative Team (VITT), etc.Previous years of aggregate service as a commissioned law enforcement officer may be ...

Lateral Patrol Officer

The Dalles, OR · On-site

$80K - $96K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) certification * Specialized investigative, tactical, or supervisory training * Other advanced law enforcement certifications and qualifications Benefits The City offers ...

Base Salary $90,646.40 - $115, 689.60 per year Assignment pay for special duty (Detective, Investigator, K9, Bomb Tech, S&R, FTO, Traffic Collision Specialist, SWAT, SRO, CRO, Drug Recognition Expert ...

Police Officer

Deer Park, TX · On-site

$35.13 - $51.58/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Drug Recognition Expert; Accident Re-constructionist. DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: * United States Citizenship; * At least 21 years of age at time of appointment; * Bachelors Degree from a college ...

Deputy Sheriff- Patrol

Georgetown, CO · On-site

$90K - $108K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

May perform in the official capacity of trainer and/or instructor in required areas including, but not limited to, Field Training Officer for new hires, Drug Recognition Expert, Intoxilyzer ...

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Drug Recognition Expert information

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$10

$61

$84

How much do drug recognition expert jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug recognition expert in the United States is $61.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54.09 and $74.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Drug Recognition Expert?

A Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) is a law enforcement officer specially trained to identify drivers impaired by drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. DREs use a systematic, multi-step evaluation process to determine if a person is under the influence of drugs, what category of drugs may be involved, and whether a medical condition could be causing impairment. Their expertise is often used in DUI investigations and court cases to provide credible testimony regarding drug impairment. Becoming a DRE requires rigorous training and certification, including both classroom and field evaluations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drug Recognition Expert?

To thrive as a Drug Recognition Expert, you need a strong background in law enforcement, detailed knowledge of drug impairment indicators, and completion of specialized DRE certification training. Familiarity with standardized field sobriety tests, drug evaluation protocols, and reporting systems is vital. Acute observational skills, analytical thinking, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help in accurately identifying impairment and testifying in court. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety of the public and upholding legal standards during impaired driving investigations.

What are the most common challenges faced by Drug Recognition Experts in the field?

Drug Recognition Experts (DREs) often face the challenge of conducting thorough assessments in dynamic and unpredictable environments, such as roadside stops or during late-night shifts. They must stay up-to-date on emerging drug trends and new substances, which can complicate the evaluation process. Additionally, DREs frequently collaborate with law enforcement and healthcare professionals, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to document findings accurately for court testimony. Staying objective and maintaining the highest professional standards under pressure is essential in this role.

What cities are hiring for Drug Recognition Expert jobs?

Cities with the most Drug Recognition Expert job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Drug Recognition Expert jobs?

The top employers for Drug Recognition Expert jobs are:

What states have the most Drug Recognition Expert jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drug Recognition Expert jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Drug Recognition Expert jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Recognition Expert jobs are:

Infographic showing various Drug Recognition Expert job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,365 per year, or $61.7 per hour.

$56K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Summary Statement The Arizona Department of Public Safety is seeking motivated individuals for our Field Operations Specialist positions in Youngtown, Arizona (the far West Valley area) who work under general supervision, performing and coordinating a variety of tasks, functions, and projects assisting law enforcement personnel and public safety operations. Performs related duties as required. This position is designated as uncovered; the incumbent serves at the pleasure of the Director of the Department of Public Safety.

Application period may close without notice. Essential Functions (not intended to be all inclusive) 1. Performs a variety of assignments of a support, administrative, or technical nature based on the needs of an assigned area.

2. Performs research, prepares reports, and develops and provides instruction on assigned topics. 3.

Performs technical assignments and functions, such as operation of unmanned aerial systems, evidence collection, blood draws, impairment investigations, collision investigations, and highway safety operations. 4. Obtains and maintains specialty certifications, such as Drug Recognition Expert, Firearms Instructor, etc.

5. Assists the public with first-on-scene aid (e.g., traffic control, fire control, motorist assistance). 6

Supervises trainees, pre-hires, and interns. 7. Assists troopers as directed with emergency and routine duties.

8. Performs special projects or assignments as directed. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required Knowledge of: police methods, practices, and procedures.

department policies, manuals, procedures, rules, and regulations. department recruiting methods and programs. knowledge of Arizona revised statutes.

police operations and specialty skillsets/certifications. incident management protocols and procedures. instructional methods and training practices.

report writing. courtroom procedures. evidence collection and management practices.

Skill in: the use and maintenance of police and emergency equipment. the use of personal protective equipment. the use of criminal justice information systems.

the use of computer software programs. writing detailed reports and written communication. coordinating complex incident response.

verbal communication and public presentations. Ability to: work independently and as part of a team. establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted during the assignment.

communicate orally and in writing to present information logically and clearly. understand written and verbal instructions to complete assigned tasks accurately. exercise sound judgment in safeguarding confidential or sensitive information.

read, comprehend, and interpret written materials of simple to moderate complexity. work with interruptions. adapt to changing priorities.

organize, prioritize, and perform multiple tasks. work within stringent deadlines to complete work assignments. effectively communicate orally and in writing.

evaluate information, make decisions, and take appropriate action. Minimum Qualifications Requires five (5) years of experience as a police officer, or five (5) years of experience in a similar job/assignment with experience in traffic safety and highway/roadway operations. WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: May be required to work irregular work hours, nights and weekends, and respond to callouts.

Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 75 pounds). Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather conditions. Ability to travel extensively throughout the State.

Ability to bend, stretch, stoop, reach, and climb (stairs and ladders). Drive for long periods of time. May be exposed to dangerous/hazardous chemicals.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Must obtain ACJIS Terminal Operator Certification within six months of hire or promotion and maintain certification throughout the course of this assignment. Must have and maintain a valid Arizona driver license by employment date.