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Entry Level Polygraph Examiner Jobs in Washington, DC

Police Officer

VA · On-site

$74K - $133K/yr

Evaluation, Polygraph & Interview: polygraph exam, psychological screening & applicant interview ... Final Assessments & Final Offer: medical exam, physical fitness assessment, medical examination ...

Showing results 21-27

Entry Level Polygraph Examiner information

See Washington, DC salary details

$37.9K

$69.5K

$112.1K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level polygraph examiner in Washington, DC is $69,499.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,400.00 and $78,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level polygraph examiner?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level polygraph examiner?

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 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.

Are entry level polygraph examiners in demand?

Entry level polygraph examiners are in moderate demand, particularly in law enforcement, government agencies, and private security sectors. Employment opportunities depend on certification, experience, and regional needs, with job stability often linked to ongoing security and investigative requirements.

How do I become an entry level polygraph examiner?

To become an entry-level polygraph examiner, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training from a certified polygraph school. Most states require passing a written exam and a background check, and obtaining certification from the American Polygraph Association or similar organizations is often necessary to work professionally.

What are the minimum requirements for an entry level polygraph examiner?

Entry level polygraph examiners typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, psychology, or a related field. They must complete specialized polygraph training and certification from a recognized agency, and often need to pass background checks and demonstrate good interpersonal skills. Knowledge of polygraph equipment and ethical standards is also essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC?

For Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Polygraph Examiner jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Polygraph Examiner job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,499 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Emergency Communications Technician I

City Of Falls Church Virginia

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$57K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Emergency Communications Technician I

Falls Church, VA

300 Park Ave, Falls Church, Virginia 22046

Full-Time Starting: $57,500 Annually Dental Insurance, Life Insurance, Medical Insurance, Pension, Vision

The City of Falls Church Police Department is a highly respected, professional public safety agency committed to providing the highest level of service that our community expects. Located six miles from Washington D.C., the City of Falls Church is an independent City, separate from neighboring Arlington and Fairfax Counties, with its own school system, municipal government, and police department. At just over 2 square miles in area, "The Little City" is known for its urban village community, quality customer service, and independent spirit.

The City of Falls Church is seeking a qualified applicant for the position of Emergency Communications Technician. The primary duties of this position are to act as a police dispatcher and call-taker for both emergency and non-emergency lines. Our dispatchers are responsible for communicating information between first responders and members of the public using radios, telephones, and various computer programs and equipment. Applicants must exhibit strong customer service skills, be able to work efficiently on computer-based applications, have good organizational skills, and have the ability to work in a stressful environment while maintaining good judgment following policy and procedures. The applicant will have the ability to use their problem-solving skills to generate a favorable outcome to many of the challenges that arise while performing the duties of this position. The applicant must also be willing to work a variety of shifts, to include nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.

The City of Falls Church Police Department is comprised of approximately 55 employees, including 35 sworn officers and six civilian Emergency Communications Technicians. As a smaller law enforcement agency, our greatest strength is in the close-working cooperation across all divisions - which include Uniform Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Emergency Communications, Animal Control, Parking Enforcement, and Records – and our neighboring public safety agencies and mutual aid partners.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Graduation from high school or GED Certificate
  • General knowledge of the geography of the city and the region
  • Demonstrate ability to learn and retain knowledge of telecommunications procedures and techniques and to deal with the public under stressful conditions
  • Certification as a communications officer within one year of employment
  • Certification as a VCIN operator within 6 months of employment
  • An equivalent combination of training and experience may be considered.

Steps in the Hiring Process:

  • Apply: Complete the Emergency Communications Technician job application online.
  • Exam and Interview Candidates eligible to participate in the selection process will be invited to the Police Department to take a written examination and participate in a panel interview.
  • Background: Qualified applicants will undergo a comprehensive background investigation and character check, including polygraph examination.
  • Interview: Selected candidates will be invited to interview with City of Falls Church Chief of Police Shahram Fard.
  • Job Offer: Offers are contingent on background and drug screening for final employment.

Salary and Benefits:

Annual entry-level salary is $57,500. Comprehensive benefits package including pension plan, deferred compensation plan, health insurance, dental insurance, flexible spending account, life & long-term disability insurance, paid holidays, vacation & sick leave, credit union membership, free parking, and more. See more details on benefits here.

Our commitment to an inclusive workplace: The City of Falls Church is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We celebrate the unique differences of our employees because that is what drives curiosity, innovation, and the success of our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, pregnancy, parental status, genetic information, political affiliation, or any other status protected by the federal, state and/or local laws or regulations. Accommodations may be requested for applicants with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department at HRTeam@fallschurchva.gov or 703-248-5127. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

All City facilities are smoke free.