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Entry Level Polygraph Examiner Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

This is the entry-level classification for Police Officer Recruits who will participate in a 22 ... polygraph examination, medical, visual, psychological and drug screening at the City's expense.

Entry Level Polygraph Examiner information

See Reno, NV salary details

$33.4K

$61.2K

$98.8K

How much do entry level polygraph examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level polygraph examiner in Reno, NV is $61,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $69,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Polygraph Examiner vs Polygraph Examiner?

AspectEntry Level Polygraph ExaminerPolygraph Examiner
CredentialsBasic training, certification often requiredAdvanced certification, experience preferred
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement, private agencies, security firmsSimilar settings, often with more complex cases
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting in polygraph tests, data collectionConducting tests, analyzing results, providing reports
Experience LevelEntry-level, on-the-job trainingMid-level, with some experience

In summary, an Entry Level Polygraph Examiner is typically new to the field, focusing on assisting with tests and data collection, while a Polygraph Examiner has more experience, conducts tests independently, and provides detailed analysis. Both roles require certification, but the level of expertise and responsibilities differ.

How much do CIA polygraph examiners make?

Entry-level polygraph examiners working for government agencies like the CIA typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. Advanced examiners with specialized skills or security clearances can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

Are polygraph examiners in demand?

Polygraph examiners are in steady demand in sectors such as law enforcement, government agencies, and private security, especially for employment screening and criminal investigations. The profession requires specialized training and certification, and job opportunities can vary based on government funding and organizational needs.

What qualifications do you need to be a polygraph examiner?

To become an entry-level polygraph examiner, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, undergo specialized training in polygraph techniques, and obtain certification from a recognized agency such as the American Polygraph Association. Some positions may require a background in law enforcement, psychology, or criminal justice, along with good communication skills and the ability to handle sensitive information.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Polygraph Examiner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Polygraph Examiner, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, along with completion of accredited polygraph training. Familiarity with polygraph instruments, data analysis software, and adherence to industry standards such as those set by the American Polygraph Association are essential. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain objective under pressure are vital soft skills. These qualities ensure accurate, ethical testing and the ability to effectively communicate results in sensitive investigative contexts.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level polygraph examiners in their first year on the job?

Entry-level polygraph examiners often encounter challenges such as building rapport with examinees, managing test anxiety (both their own and the subject's), and accurately interpreting physiological data while adhering to strict ethical guidelines. Adjusting to the structured protocols and learning to navigate sensitive interviews can be demanding. New examiners also need to develop strong communication skills to explain results to both subjects and supervisors, and they typically work closely with more experienced colleagues for mentorship and quality assurance during their initial cases.

What are entry level polygraph examiners?

Entry level polygraph examiners are professionals trained to administer polygraph tests, also known as lie detector tests, typically under the supervision of more experienced examiners. They use specialized equipment to measure physiological responses such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration while individuals answer a series of questions. Entry level examiners are often recent graduates of accredited polygraph training programs and may work in law enforcement, government agencies, or private sectors. Their primary role is to assist in investigations by helping to determine the truthfulness of subjects. Over time, they gain experience and can take on more complex cases independently.

Is it hard to become a polygraph examiner?

Becoming an entry level polygraph examiner typically requires completing specialized training and certification, which can take several months. Candidates often need a background in law enforcement, psychology, or related fields, and must pass a certification exam to practice professionally.
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Polygraph Examiner job openings in Reno, NV as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,209 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Police Officer Recruit

$68K/yr

Other

Posted 17 days ago


City Of Reno (Nevada) rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

643rd of 663 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description Reno Police Department is Hiring Now. **Summer 2026 Academy Update** The Reno Police Department is looking to fill 20+ positions at the upcoming Summer 2026 Academy, anticipated to begin in July 2026. Civil Service will begin reviewing applications as they are received.

To be considered, candidates must complete a City of Reno employment application with all required documentation and successfully complete all testing with a passing score. The Reno Police Department employs the best of our community. Successful candidates demonstrate the ability to live and work within our Reno Police Department CORE values.

These CORE values are the heart of our Department: SERVICE, INTEGRITY, RESPECT, and FAIRNESS. Our Department is dedicated to providing service to our Community. We proactively respond to the changing needs of the community and department through open communication, accountability and professionalism.

Employees must have integrity, providing service that demonstrates honesty, professionalism and dedication in all actions. Employees will treat others with respect, treating everyone with dignity, empathy and fairness, while demonstrating consistent, ethical and impartial treatment towards everyone. This is the entry-level classification for Police Officer Recruits who will participate in a 22-week Police Academy.

Upon graduation from the Academy, Recruits will be promoted to Police Officers with a starting annual salary of $72,508.80. This is an open competitive opportunity for all individuals who meet the minimum qualifications. This continuous recruitment will establish an eligibility list for current and future vacancies

As applications are received, results will be merged into one eligible list according to final ratings, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Civil Service Commission: Rule VI, Section 11, Continuous Examination. The City of Reno is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to everyone. This commitment is an integral part of our efforts to ensure that we have a diverse and representative workforce that serves the community of Reno.

Examples of Essential Functions Specific to Police Recruit Attends the Law Enforcement Academy ("Academy") designated by the Police Department. Conforms to the rules of conduct as outlined in the Academy's Recruit Manual, Department Policy and City of Reno Policy. Completes written reports and makes oral presentations as required by the Academy.

Participates in the Academy training, and completes and passes all academic tests as prescribed by the Academy, to include any quizzes, mid-term and final exams. Participates in physical fitness training and passes the physical fitness standards test as prescribed by the Academy and the Nevada Peace Officers Standards and Training rules. Participates in Defensive Tactics training and obtains a passing score on the final proficiency test.

Participates in Firearms training and obtains a passing qualification score for each firearm. Participates in the Emergency Vehicle Operations Course training and obtains a passing score on the final proficiency test. Completes First Aid and CPR training and obtains a passing score on a final written exam.

Participates in Force on Force training and obtains a passing score on the final proficiency test. Specific to Police Officer Patrols assigned areas on foot, in a patrol car, on a motorcycle or other means of transportation; checks stores, businesses, houses and other premises for burglary and other disturbances; investigates any suspicious conditions. Makes arrests for violation of laws or ordinances; escorts prisoners to incarceration and may register and book prisoners.

Makes initial and supplementary investigation of crimes in areas such as personal violence, theft, checks intelligence, juvenile and others; investigates cases involving missing persons, lost children and runaways; interviews witnesses and complainants. Click here for a complete list of essential job functions related to the Police Officer Classification. Minimum Qualifications The following minimum qualifications must be met by applicants at the time of application: Graduation from high school or equivalent such as a GED A citizen of the United States of America Possession of a valid driver's license At least 20 years of age Additional Screening: A background investigation will be conducted in order to verify the accuracy and completeness of statements contained on the application and to obtain information relative to predicting successful performance as a Police Recruit/Officer.

Those individuals whose rank places them in the range to be certified to the department will be provided with a background information packet. This initial packet must be completed within the time period specified by the Reno Police Department. In addition, eligible candidates selected for hire from the certified list for Police Department positions will be required to submit to a polygraph examination, medical, visual, psychological and drug screening at the City's expense.

These processes will be conducted by a licensed polygrapher, physician, and clinical psychologist. The screening components will be used to evaluate a candidate's capability to safely perform the related physical and mental demands of the job. The Reno Police Department Recruiting Division is available to answer questions related to on the job activities or training requirements by emailing rpdrecruiter@reno.gov

Evaluation Standards: An individual may not be appointed to the duties of a peace officer if they have: Been convicted of a felony in this state or any offense which would be a felony if committed in this state. Been convicted of an offense involving moral turpitude or the unlawful use, sale or possession of a controlled substance. Engaged in the use of marijuana after the submission of this application.

A documented history of physical violence. ***Bilingual individuals are strongly encouraged to apply*** Supplemental Information How to apply: Submit your application and supplemental questionnaire online at www.reno.gov/jobs. If a computer or mobile device is not available to you, suggested locations to submit an online application include: the City of Reno City Hall 2nd floor computer kiosk or Civil Service Office, Nevada Job Connects, local libraries, or educational facilities

If you are having difficulty logging into your governmentjobs.com profile, please call the applicant support line at 855-524-5627. Completing your Application: The Personal Profile Information, Agency-Wide Questions and the Supplemental Questionnaire are sections that must be completed as part of your application. The following areas of the application are not required to be completed: Certificates and Licenses, Skills, Additional Information and References

*Please attach a copy of your college transcripts or degree from an accredited college or university, if applicable, to your completed application in the "attachments" section. Additional points will be added to your final passing score. This documentation must be received by Civil Service at the time you submit your application.

If you cannot attach this documentation to your application, it may be submitted by email to civilservice@reno.gov or mailed or hand delivered to the office of the Civil Service Commission located in the Reno City Hall, 1 East First Street, Reno, NV 89501. Additional points to be awarded as follows, for a maximum of 2 points: Bachelor's degree = 2 points Associate's degree = 1 point *Applicants will be allowed to apply for Police Officer Recruit once every six months.* **Candidates who are disqualified during the hiring process due to background disqualifying criteria by federal and/or state laws will be removed from the eligible list and must wait one year before reapplying ** Examination Process: The examination will consist of a written test weighted as follows: Written Test = 100% of final grade Multiple test dates have been scheduled, with testing sessions being made available to candidates upon acceptance of their application. The number of sessions is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis

We strongly suggest selecting a test session as soon as possible. A notification to self-schedule your test will be sent upon the acceptance of your application. Regular testing will take place in the City of Reno.

The exact testing locations in Reno will be identified when you schedule your test. There may be alternative options for remote testing available to candidates that are outside of the Reno area. We will notify those who meet this criteria to schedule their exam.

FAQs on the Police Officer Recruit Recruitment Will I be required to pass a Physical Fitness Test. Yes, all candidates will be required to take and pass the NV POST Physical Fitness Test (PFT) administered by the Reno Police Department (RPD) within 30 days of application and prior to being considered for hire. This is part of the hiring process, once your application has been accepted, you must successfully complete the PFT within 30 days.

Candidates will be allowed up to two attempts to pass the PFT within that 30 day period. Exceptions may be made for weather or staffing related reasons only. When does this recruitment close.

This recruitment is continuous, meaning we will continue to take applications and will not have a closing date. Please note: There will be specific deadlines by which applications will need to be submitted in order to be considered for an upcoming scheduled academy. Monitor the job posting for all updates as to when the next round of hiring is expected.

When should I submit my application. As soon as possible, once we receive your application, we will send you a notification to schedule your exam. When is the next scheduled academy.

The Reno Police Department is preparing for the Summer 2026 Academy, anticipated to begin in July 2026. Civil Service has already begun pulling applications for this round of hiring. To be considered, candidates must complete a City of Reno employment application with all required documentation and have successfully completed the required test with a passing score.

Other Important Information Notification: Applicants are notified by email of their examination results. Applicants who do not meet the minimum qualifications will also be notified. We highly recommend opting in to receive text message notifications.

Follow-up text messages may include updates about your application, next steps, and interviews. If you haven't opted in before, the option will appear before you submit your application. If you've previously opted in or out, you can update your choice anytime in account settings in your governmentjobs.com profile

Testing Accommodation: We strive to ensure equal access for all individuals. If you require an accommodation due to a disability, you must inform the Chief Examiner by completing the Accommodation Request Form by the closing date of this announcement. All requests will be handled with confidentiality and respect.

Employee/Veteran Preference (In the event of Tie Scores): Open Competitive Examination (Rule VII, Section 7): In the event of tie scores, candidates will be provided a rank preference in the following order: City of Reno classified employees who are veterans City of Reno classified employees who are not veterans City of Reno non-classified employees and external candidates who are veterans This preference is only used to break ties. Proof of honorable discharge must be submitted with the application. Appointment and Certification: Appointments to positions in the City's Civil Service system are made on the basis of examination.

Scores resulting from a competitive examination are used in determining a person's rank on an eligible register. The department may hire any of the persons referred. The names of those persons not hired may be considered when the next vacancy occurs, for as long as that register is viable.

Questions and Updates: Questions about the information on this announcement and updates to application information should be directed to Civil Service at (775) 334-2223 or civilservice@reno.gov. The City of Reno is an equal opportunity employer. Recruitment, hiring, assignment, training, compensation, promotion, retention, and disciplinary decisions will be made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, political affiliation, membership in an employee association, or any other protected class status applicable under federal or state law or City Charter.


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