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Narcotics Officer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Hemet

Police Officer (Lateral)

Hemet, CA

$89K - $119K/yr

Hemet Police Department offers a variety of special assignment positions including motorcycle officer, school resource officer, investigator, narcotics officer, field training officer, gang officer ...

City of Hemet, CA

Police Officer (Lateral)

Hemet, CA · On-site

$89K - $119K/yr

Hemet Police Department offers a variety of special assignment positions including motorcycle officer, school resource officer, investigator, narcotics officer, field training officer, gang officer ...

City of Indio

IPD Police Officer

Indio, CA

$92K - $118K/yr

Trains and assists less experienced personnel as assigned; may serve as a Field Training Officer or in a variety of special program areas, including narcotics investigations, Youth Accountability ...

City of Indio, CA

IPD Police Officer

Jackson, CA · On-site

$92K - $118K/yr

Trains and assists less experienced personnel as assigned; may serve as a Field Training Officer or in a variety of special program areas, including narcotics investigations, Youth Accountability ...

City of Novato

Police Officer Trainee

Novato, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

PURPOSE The Police Officer Trainee is a non-sworn, full-time, benefited position within the Novato ... Narcotics, criminal street gangs, organized crime enforcement. Education on community policing and ...

City of Novato, CA

Police Officer Trainee

Novato, CA · On-site

$78K - $95K/yr

PURPOSE The Police Officer Trainee is a non-sworn, full-time, benefited position within the Novato ... Narcotics, criminal street gangs, organized crime enforcement. * Education on community policing ...

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Narcotics Officer information

What is a narcotics officer?

A Narcotics Officer is a law enforcement professional who specializes in investigating and preventing drug-related crimes. They work to identify, apprehend, and prosecute individuals involved in the illegal drug trade. Their duties may include undercover operations, surveillance, gathering intelligence, and working with other agencies to combat drug trafficking. Narcotics Officers often operate at the local, state, or federal level and may be part of specialized drug enforcement units. The job requires strong investigative skills, physical fitness, and a deep understanding of drug laws and criminal operations.

What are some typical challenges narcotics officers face in their daily work?

Narcotics Officers often encounter high-pressure situations, including undercover operations, surveillance in unfamiliar environments, and interactions with potentially dangerous individuals. The work can involve irregular hours and responding to rapidly changing circumstances, making adaptability and teamwork crucial. Officers must accurately document evidence and follow proper procedures to ensure successful prosecutions and protect their own safety. Despite these challenges, many Narcotics Officers find the role rewarding due to its impact on community safety and the opportunities for professional development within specialized law enforcement units.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a narcotics officer?

To thrive as a Narcotics Officer, you need a strong background in law enforcement procedures, investigative techniques, and knowledge of drug laws, usually obtained through police academy training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with surveillance equipment, evidence management systems, and specialized narcotics databases is important for this role. Keen observational skills, discretion, resilience, and strong interpersonal communication set top candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting effective investigations, ensuring officer safety, and building successful cases against drug-related crimes.

How do you become a narcotics officer?

To become a narcotics officer, candidates typically need to have a high school diploma or GED, pass a background check, and complete police academy training. Many agencies prefer applicants with prior law enforcement experience or relevant skills such as criminal justice knowledge, physical fitness, and proficiency with investigative tools. Additional specialized training in drug enforcement may also be required.

How much does a narcotics officer make?

A narcotics officer's salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $45,000 to $85,000 annually. Higher salaries are common in larger cities or with specialized skills and certifications, and the role often involves working irregular hours and field investigations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Narcotics Officer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Narcotics Officer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Narcotics Officer jobs in California?

For Narcotics Officer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Narcotics Officer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Narcotics Officer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Narcotics Officer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Narcotics Officer job openings:

Narcotics Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Narcotics Officer job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 73% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Police Officer (Lateral)

City of Hemet

Hemet, CA

$89K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Apply community policing concepts while maintaining an effective enforcement profile.

  • Perform law enforcement duties as a police officer, including responding to incidents and enforcing laws.

  • Complete required documentation and participate in background investigations and evaluations.

Job description

THE CITY THE CITY OF HEMET IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The City of Hemet is accepting continuous applications for Police Officer-Lateral (experienced). Apply immediately for consideration. Summary Description The City of Hemet is seeking highly motivated, career and community-oriented Police Officer Laterals to fill current and anticipated vacancies in the department.

The ideal candidates should be able to apply the concepts of community-oriented policing, while maintaining an effective enforcement profile. Note: "Lateral" is defined as current employment with a POST recognized law enforcement agency as a peace officer; or previous employment with a POST recognized law enforcement agency as a peace officer with a break-in-service not exceeding three (3) years. Candidates exceeding a break in service of more than three (3) years must have completed a POST Requalification course prior to time of application.

Out of state applicants must have achieved a California POST Basic Course Waiver. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT: Do you want to work for an agency where you can make a direct impact on your community. You can make a difference by joining one of the most progressive and professional police departments in Southern California.

The Hemet Police Department is an advanced agency devoted to community policing through proactive enforcement of laws, crime prevention activities, and extensive community involvement. Our community has shown strong support of its police department throughout its 100-year history. Hemet Police Department offers a variety of special assignment positions including motorcycle officer, school resource officer, investigator, narcotics officer, field training officer, gang officer, canine handler, and SWAT.

Patrol officers currently work mixed 3/12 and 4/10 shifts. Other non-traditional work schedules have been implemented by various bureaus within the department. Currently the City also deploys an assigned vehicle program for officers.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities To view the position's complete details, please click here. Supplemental Information TO APPLY: Submit an online application by the posted deadline with the following considerations: Complete all required fields on the application Attach a copy of one of the following: Basic POST Certificate, POST Requalification, or California POST Basic Course Waiver If you do not attach the required certificates, your application will not be considered. Special Requirements: Applicants must: (1) Possess a valid Class C California Driver License; and (2) Successfully pass a thorough background investigation, a polygraph examination, a psychological evaluation, fingerprinting, and a medical examination which will include a pre-employment drug screening.

As required by Commission Regulation 1008: Police Officer-Lateral applicants who have had a break of employment of three (3) years or more than three (3) years as a Peace Officer must have completed their re-qualifications course prior to time of application. RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS BUT MAY BE ATTACHED. CANDIDATES WHO REQUIRE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION IN THE SELECTION PROCESS SHOULD STATE THEIR NEEDS IN WRITING WHEN SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION PACKAGE.

THE PROVISIONS IN THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE. The City reserves the right to rate applicants based on a review of the application materials and to invite only the most qualified applicants to participate in the selection process.

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