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Police Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

POLICE OFFICER

Seal Beach, CA ยท On-site

$42K/yr

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position.Employment Type: OTHER

POLICE OFFICER

China Lake, CA ยท On-site

$42K/yr

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position.Employment Type: OTHER

POLICE OFFICER

Bridgeport, CA ยท On-site

$40K/yr

Successfully completing a four-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position. Such education must ...

Police Recruit

Mammoth Lakes, CA ยท On-site

$34.48/hr

An associate of arts degree from an accredited college with major course work in police science, criminal justice, or a related field is highly desirable. Ability to complete California POST-approved ...

POLICE OFFICER

China Lake, CA ยท On-site

$42K/yr

Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position.Employment Type: OTHER

POLICE CADET

Cathedral City, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

Must maintain a minimum of 6 units per semester in Police Science, Criminal Justice, Administration of Justice or a related field until obtaining an Associate's Degree from an accredited college or ...

Police Recruit

Mammoth Lakes, CA ยท On-site

$34.48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

An associate of arts degree from an accredited college with major course work in police science, criminal justice, or a related field is highly desirable. * Ability to complete California POST ...

Police Officer (Lateral)

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$138K - $168K/yr

Collect and present evidence using scientific identification techniques and testify in court ... The Lateral Police Officer position requires current law enforcement experience. Education: Sixty ...

Police Officer

El Centro, CA ยท On-site

$5.9K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Knowledge of Police science principles. * Knowledge of Police department policies, practices and procedures. * Knowledge of Theories of human behavior. * Knowledge of Federal and state laws, statutes ...

Police Academy Trainee

Chino, CA

$75K - $91K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

D (required); supplemental Police Science courses (preferred). Trainee Requirement: Currently enrolled and actively attending a California POST-certified Police Basic Training Academy; or Graduated ...

Police Recruit

Eureka, CA ยท On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented with some education in police science. * Some voluntary experience working with a law enforcement agency would be highly ...

Police Academy Trainee

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $91K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

D (required); supplemental Police Science courses (preferred). Trainee Requirement: * Currently enrolled and actively attending a California POST-certified Police Basic Training Academy; or

Knowledge of Police science principles. Knowledge of Police department policies, practices and procedures. Knowledge of Theories of human behavior. Knowledge of Federal and state laws, statutes ...

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA ยท On-site

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

High School diploma or equivalent supplemented by course work in police science, criminal justice or a related field. Licenses and Certifications: Must possess a valid California Basic P.O.S.T.

Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth (12th) grade supplemented with some education in police science. Some voluntary experience working with a law enforcement agency would be highly desirable.

Showing results 21-40

Police Science information

See California salary details

$20.6K

$62K

$149.8K

How much do police science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for police science in California is $62,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,679.00 and $68,056.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is police science?

Police Science is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the study of law enforcement practices, criminal behavior, crime prevention, and the legal system. It combines elements of criminal justice, sociology, psychology, forensic science, and public administration to prepare individuals for careers in policing and related fields. Students in police science programs learn about criminal law, investigation techniques, ethics, community relations, and evidence handling. This field aims to equip future law enforcement professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to serve and protect communities effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in police science?

To thrive in Police Science, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, investigative techniques, and law enforcement procedures, usually supported by a degree in criminal justice or police science. Familiarity with evidence management systems, forensic technology, and police reporting software is often required. Strong ethical judgment, critical thinking, and effective communication skills are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies are vital for ensuring lawful practices, thorough investigations, and positive community relations within law enforcement.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in police science roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in police science often encounter challenges such as managing high-stress situations, adapting to evolving technologies in law enforcement, and maintaining effective communication across diverse teams. To address these, ongoing training in stress management techniques, staying updated with technological advancements, and participating in team-building exercises are essential. Additionally, strong mentorship programs and collaboration with other departments can help individuals navigate complex investigations and develop their skills for career advancement.

What is the difference between Police Science vs Criminal Justice?

AspectPolice ScienceCriminal Justice
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Police Science or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Criminal Justice or related field
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsCourts, correctional facilities, law enforcement agencies
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily police departments and law enforcement agenciesCourts, correctional institutions, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for law enforcement careersRelated but broader focus on justice system

Police Science and Criminal Justice share overlapping credentials and work environments, often preparing individuals for careers in law enforcement. Police Science emphasizes practical policing skills, while Criminal Justice covers the broader justice system. Both fields are essential for careers in law enforcement and related sectors, with Police Science more focused on police operations and Criminal Justice on the justice process as a whole.

Is there a degree in police science?

Yes, many police science careers require or prefer a degree in criminal justice, law enforcement, or police science. These programs typically include coursework in criminal law, investigation techniques, and ethics, and may lead to roles such as police officer, detective, or crime analyst.

What can you do with a police science degree?

A police science degree prepares individuals for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, and related fields. Graduates can work as police officers, detectives, crime scene investigators, or in roles involving crime analysis and forensic technology, often requiring certification and practical training. The degree provides foundational knowledge of criminal behavior, law enforcement procedures, and investigative techniques.

What is a police science professional?

A police science professional studies law enforcement techniques, criminal behavior, and investigative methods to support crime prevention and investigation. They often work in crime labs, analysis units, or investigative teams, utilizing tools like forensic analysis and criminal profiling. Certification and knowledge of legal procedures are typically required for this role.

Which degree is best for a police science job?

A bachelor's degree in criminal justice, police science, or a related field is typically preferred for police science jobs. Some positions may require or prefer a master's degree or specialized certifications, especially for advanced or supervisory roles. Practical experience and knowledge of law enforcement procedures are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Police Science jobs in California?

For Police Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Police Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Police Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,010 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER

CNIC Careers

Seal Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$42K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

You will serve as a Police Officer in the Force Protection Division of Commander Navy Installations Command (CNIC) installations.
This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer.Qualifications:In order to qualify for this position, your resume must provide sufficient experience and/or education, knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are being considered. Your resume is the key means we have for evaluating your skills, knowledge, and abilities as they relate to this position. Therefore, we encourage you to be clear and specific when describing your experience.
GS-04: Your resume must demonstrate at least 6 months of general experience and 6 months of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-03 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector.
Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Knowledge of a body of basic laws and regulations, law enforcement operations, practices, and techniques.
2) Responsibility for maintaining order and protecting life and property.
General experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Experience in administrative, clerical, technical, or military work that involved protecting property, equipment, data, or materials.
2) Making judgments based on the application of directions, rules, regulations, or laws.
(NOTE: Your answer must be supported by information in your resume.)
GS-05: Your resume must demonstrate at least 1 year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-04 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
1) Issuing citations for violations of the law.
2) Preparing reports and orders for dissemination to other law enforcement officials.
3) Protecting property, equipment, data, or materials.
(NOTE: Your answer must be supported by information in your resume.)
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/police-series-0083/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Completion of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Uniformed Police Training Program is a condition of continued employment. Employee will be required to sign a continuing service agreement prior to travel to the academy. Agreement to Continue in Service - CSA, Agency requires 36 months of continued employment after the completion of required training from the FLETC in accordance with Title 5 USC 4108 and 5 CFR410.309. Failure to voluntary complete length of employment requirement can subject employee to reimburse to the agency for fees, such as tuition and related fees, travel, and other special expenses (excluding salary) paid in connection with the training.
This announcement uses the Defense Industrial Base, Major Range and Test Facilities direct hire authority to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to certain positions in the competitive service.Education:In lieu of specialized or general experience, you may qualify with the following education or combination of both education and experience:
GS-04: Two years of successfully completed study at an accredited school above the high school level with at least 12 semester hours in police administration, police law and evidence, police investigation, criminology, law enforcement, general law, or similar subjects closely related to police work.
GS-05: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position.Employment Type: OTHER