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Narcotics Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lateral Police Officer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$7.2K - $9.6K/mo

Although most assignments will be patrol, experienced officers have the opportunity for special assignments in areas such as SWAT, Traffic, Detectives, Canine, Narcotics, Gangs, and Child Abuse. This ...

Police Officer - Entry

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

... who is addicted to narcotics, drugs or intoxicating beverages and is not currently in a ... for officer and dependents Vacation, Sick, & Holiday Time On-site gym (new building will have a ...

IPD Police Officer

Indio, 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 ...

This Targeting Officer position is located in Northern Virginia with flexible core hours.Key Role ... Develop expertise in the client's functional missions, including threats, proliferation, narcotics ...

This Targeting Officer position is located in Northern Virginia with flexible core hours. Key Role ... Develop expertise in the client's functional missions, including threats, proliferation, narcotics ...

This Targeting Officer position is located in Northern Virginia with flexible core hours. Key Role ... Develop expertise in the client's functional missions, including threats, proliferation, narcotics ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Narcotics Officer information

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$9

$31

$77

How much do narcotics officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for narcotics officer in the United States is $31.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.
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The most popular types of Narcotics Officer jobs are:

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The top employers for Narcotics Officer jobs are:

What states have the most Narcotics Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Narcotics Officer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Narcotics Officer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Narcotics Officer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,929 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Lateral Police Officer

City of Vancouver

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$7.2K - $9.6K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


City Of Vancouver rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 857 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Title

Vancouver Police Department Lateral Officer

Salary Range

$7,224.00 - $9,681.00

Job Summary

The Vancouver Police Department is currently offering a hire bonus of $25,000 for Lateral Officers. The Vancouver Police Department strives to be a full service organization with challenging opportunities in police work for individuals who are interested in providing quality law enforcement services to the public. Its officers are charged with protecting life and property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances including the prevention, detection and investigation of crimes and civil infractions and exercising of arresting authority. Although most assignments will be patrol, experienced officers have the opportunity for special assignments in areas such as SWAT, Traffic, Detectives, Canine, Narcotics, Gangs, and Child Abuse. This position is covered under the provisions of an agreement between the City and the Vancouver Police Officers Guild.

Job Details

Essential Functions:

  • Patrolling a designated area of the City;
  • Responding to a variety of calls for service involving criminal and non-criminal situations and taking necessary police action;
  • Preparing accurate reports;
  • Conducting investigations, collecting evidence and interviewing witness/suspects;
  • Testifying in Federal, State and local courts, and in administrative hearings;
  • Working in partnerships with the community to solve problems;
  • Developing public relation contact with civil groups, schools, businesses, neighborhood organizations and other law enforcement agencies;
  • Representing the police department to other city service areas, elected officials, outside agencies, and to various citizen groups;
  • Performing other duties required to accomplish the objectives of the position.

Qualifications

  • United States citizenship
  • 21 years of age
  • High School Diploma or its equivalent
  • Required Licenses and/or Certifications
  • Valid driver's license

The City of Vancouver requires successful completion of a thorough background investigation, and post offer psychological and medical examination, including pre-employment drug screen and a polygraph examination.

Job Posting End Date

Open Until Filled


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