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Police Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Cathedral City

POLICE CADET

Cathedral City, CA · 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 ...

City of Rialto

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA · On-site

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

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.

US Department of the Army

$40K/yr

Four years of education above the high school level in an accredited school leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position, such ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$40K/yr

Four years of education above the high school level in an accredited school leading to a bachelor's degree in Police Science or a comparable degree program related to the work of the position, such ...

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All JobsPolice Science JobsPolice Science Jobs in California

Police Science information

See California salary details

$20.6K

$62K

$149.8K

How much do police science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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 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 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.

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 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.

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 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 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 job categories do people searching Police Science jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Police Science jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Police Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Police Science job openings:
Police Science jobs near you
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 CADET

City of Cathedral City

Cathedral City, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time, Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

POLICE CADET

Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cathedralcityca/jobs/newprint/5196345)

Apply

POLICE CADET

Salary

$16.90 Hourly

Location

Cathedral City, CA

Job Type

PART-TIME EMPLOYEE

Job Number

26-06

Department

Police Department

Division

Police Department

Opening Date

01/12/2026

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

NA

  • Description
  • Benefits
  • Questions

Description

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN A CAREER IN PUBLIC SAFETY?

THE CITY OF CATHEDRAL CITY HAS THE PERFECT OPPORTUNITY

FOR YOU TO GET FIRST HAND EXPERIENCE WITH THE DEPARTMENT.

APPLY TO BE A POLICE CADET TODAY!

THE POSITION

As part of the Police Cadet program, this position will provide a variety of community service and other municipal services including, but not limited to, providing assistance to the public at the front counter, processing reports and maintaining records and files, maintaining police vehicles, performing routine jail functions such as custodial checks on inmates, searches, booking, fingerprinting, and other jail duties, assist in the dispatch center, parking enforcement, and traffic control, and other duties as assigned.

Incumbents will work 16 hours a week for a maximum of 944 hours.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule to include emergency call-in, call-back, shift work, nights, holidays and weekends to accommodate City needs.
  • Graduation from high school or equivalent.
  • 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 university during the school year. All college/university course work must be, and continue to be, completed with a grade of "C" or better. Program age from 18 to 23 years old.
  • Must have a valid California class C driver license and acceptable driving record at time of appointment and throughout employment in the class series.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien who has applied for citizenship at time of appointment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work is performed indoors in a front counter or office environment and may occasionally be performed outdoors with full exposure to the elements. An incumbent drives a vehicle on City business, sits and stands for periods of time, uses a computer, walks and may run on slippery/uneven surfaces, climbs, kneels, crouches, twists, reaches, bends, crawls and grasps, lifts, carries, pushes, pulls and drags equipment and other items weighing up to 30 pounds.

TO VIEW THE FULL JOB DESCRIPTION, CLICK HERE. (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cathedralcityca/classspecs/newprint/1053208)

POTENTIAL CAREER PATH:

Cadets employed by the City may have preference for promotional opportunity as a Police Officer Recruit then Police Officer if they meet the requirements below:

Must be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment to Police Officer.

Must have one-year experience as a cadet.

Must pass a written exam.

Must pass physical agility.

Must pass oral interviews.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must submit an application on-line. Based upon the information presented on the applications, a limited number of candidates who possess qualifications most pertinent to the position will be invited to participate in the selection process. The selection process may include, but is not limited to the following components: application review and evaluation, written examination or exercise, physical examination, practical exercise and interview evaluation.

All notifications will be sent by email only (regardless of the notification preference selected during the on-line application process). Notifications will be sent to the email address listed on your on-line application.

All employment offers made by the City are contingent upon establishing proof of a prospective candidates legal authorization to work in the United States and successfully passing all components of the pre-employment process which may include, but is not limited to: comprehensive background check, criminal history check (livescan fingerprint check), polygraph examination, and post-offer medical evaluation with a drug screen.

What's Next? Apply today and share this posting with anyone else who may be interested!

The City of Cathedral City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the citizens we serve. We seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented individuals from a diverse candidate pool.

PT/RESERVE/VOLUNTEER EMPLOYEES NOT QUALIFIED FOR BENEFITS

01

Each applicant must complete this supplemental questionnaire as a part of the application screening and selection process. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, partial information, and reference to resume or application may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from information included within the application?

  • YES
  • NO

02

Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?

  • Yes
  • No

03

Do you have a valid California Class C driver license?

  • Yes
  • No

04

Are you currently between the ages of 18 and 21 1/2 years old? If you are over the age of 21 1/2, we recommend you apply as a Police Officer Recruit.

  • Yes
  • No

05

Are you currently enrolled in a minimum of 6 units in Police Science, Criminal Justice, Administration of Justice, or a related field in anticipation of obtaining an Associate Degree from an accredited college or university?

  • Yes
  • No

06

Are currently enrolled in (or have previously attended) a POST Basic Academy? If yes, please list the Academy and dates of enrollment. If no, type "no".

07

Are you willing to work a flexible schedule to include emergency call-in, call-back, nights, holidays and weekends?

  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

Employer

City of Cathedral City

Address

68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero

Cathedral City, California, 92234

Website

http://www.joincathedralcity.org

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