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Police Undercover Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer Position This job posting is for current, experienced police officers from other ... As required, may investigate gambling, morals, and narcotics offenses; act in an undercover ...

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Lateral Police Officer

Olympia, WA · On-site

$98K - $122K/yr

Lateral Police Officer Salary: $98,004.00 - $122,148.00 Annually Location: City Hall Campus ... and undercover operations, collects evidence; performs stake outs and undercover operations ...

New

Police Officer

Schertz, TX · On-site

$70K - $84K/yr

Other duties include testifying in court; and serving in plain clothes/undercover operations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: * Patrols assigned areas to maintain a visible police presence; searches for ...

Lateral Police Officer To qualify as a Lateral Police Officer, candidate must: * Have been employed ... and undercover operations, collects evidence; performs stake outs and undercover operations ...

New

Lateral Police Officer

Tumwater, WA · On-site

$98K - $122K/yr

Police Department Opening Date: 01/01/2020 General Statement of Duties/Supervision To qualify as a ... and undercover operations, collects evidence; performs stake outs and undercover operations ...

Lateral Police Officer

Frederick, MD · On-site

$71K - $81K/yr

Police Officer - Lateral Job Number: POS-L-2026 Department: Frederick Police Department Division ... assigned. • Perform undercover and surveillance activities • Develop and maintain good ...

Lateral Police Officer

Olympia, WA · On-site

$98K - $122K/yr

... and undercover operations, collects evidence; performs stake outs and undercover operations ... Assists in training new police officers and reserve officers in basic patrol functions and related ...

Police Officer

New Bern, NC · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

... undercover; processes crime scenes. May be assigned to special operations or technical support ... Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Some knowledge of police methods, practices and procedures; some ...

Police Officer

New Bern, NC · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

New Bern Police Department Division: Police Opening Date: 04/25/2018 Closing Date: Continuous ... Performs follow-up investigations; may work undercover; processes crime scenes. * May be assigned ...

... jail; may perform undercover or plain clothes duties. Participates in a program of public ... Requires successful completion of Police Academy Training Course. Requires possession of a valid ...

Police Officer

Wendell, NC · On-site

$58K - $106K/yr

However, Police Officers hired on higher levels may receive higher pay depending upon ... undercover activity Ability to work independently without close supervision and as a member of a ...

Conducts specialized undercover investigations as assigned. Responds to emergency calls to protect ... LATERAL ENTRY PROGRAM: Must have 2 years experience as paid full time Police Officer from ...

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Police Undercover information

See salary details

$19K

$44.6K

$74K

How much do police undercover jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for police undercover in the United States is $44,633.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is it called when you work for the police undercover?

When a police officer works undercover, the role is called an undercover officer or undercover agent. They operate secretly to gather evidence on criminal activities, often requiring specialized training and discretion. This work involves blending into the environment and maintaining confidentiality to succeed in investigations.

What do undercover police officers do?

Undercover police officers work covertly to gather evidence and investigate criminal activities such as drug trafficking, fraud, or organized crime. They often assume false identities, work in dangerous environments, and require skills in surveillance, communication, and discretion to successfully complete their missions.

What are some common challenges faced by police undercover officers, and how can new recruits prepare for them?

Police undercover officers often face challenges such as maintaining their cover identity, managing high-stress situations, and balancing personal safety with investigative objectives. New recruits can prepare by undergoing extensive training in surveillance techniques, communication skills, and stress management. It's also important to have strong support from experienced colleagues and supervisors, as teamwork and debriefing are essential for both operational effectiveness and personal well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police Undercover, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Undercover, you need comprehensive law enforcement training, investigative skills, and typically a police academy certification or equivalent experience. Familiarity with surveillance technology, evidence-gathering tools, and secure communication systems is crucial. Exceptional adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the ability to build rapport under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure undercover officers can safely gather intelligence, maintain their cover, and contribute to successful investigations.

What does 4 fingers up mean for cops?

In law enforcement, a gesture of four fingers raised often signifies support for a fallen officer or a specific unit within the police force. Police officers may use hand signals like this during operations or public appearances to communicate solidarity or specific messages discreetly. Understanding such signals can be part of training for undercover officers to maintain safety and coordination.

What are police undercover officers?

Police undercover officers are law enforcement professionals who assume false identities to gather evidence and investigate criminal activity without revealing their true affiliation. They may infiltrate criminal organizations, participate in sting operations, or gather intelligence on illegal activities. Their work is often dangerous and requires specialized training, discretion, and the ability to blend in seamlessly with suspects. The goal of undercover police work is to collect enough evidence to arrest and prosecute offenders while maintaining officer safety.

Is undercover police work legal?

Undercover police work is legal when conducted within the bounds of the law and with proper authorization, such as warrants or departmental policies. Law enforcement agencies follow strict regulations to ensure undercover operations do not violate citizens' rights or laws. Officers involved typically receive specialized training and operate under oversight to maintain legality and ethical standards.

What is the difference between Police Undercover vs Police Detective?

AspectPolice UndercoverPolice Detective
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training, possibly additional detective training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, operating covertly in various settingsInvestigative settings, offices, crime scenes, interviews
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, primarily in criminal investigationsLaw enforcement agencies, criminal investigations, case solving
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding covert roles in policingInvestigative roles and case work

Police Undercover officers focus on covert operations and operating discreetly in the field, often in criminal environments. Police Detectives handle investigations, interviews, and case management in a more visible capacity. Both roles require police academy training, but their work environments and methods differ significantly.

More about Police Undercover jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Undercover jobs? Cities with the most Police Undercover job openings:
What states have the most Police Undercover jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Undercover jobs include:
Infographic showing various Police Undercover job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,633 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Lateral Police Officer

Lateral Police Officer

Honolulu Police Dept

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$7.9K/mo

Other

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


Job description

Police Officer Position

This job posting is for current, experienced police officers from other jurisdictions only. If you do not qualify for our Lateral-Entry Program, we welcome you to apply to the Metropolitan Police Recruit position which is currently on recruitment. Lateral officers will be required to successfully complete a paid 12-week accelerated Lateral Academy and 9-week Field Training and Evaluation Program. Lateral officers will be credited up to nine (9) years of qualifying service from their current employer for salary and step movements only. Base salary for the 3 different steps are as follows:

  • 2-3 years of creditable service: $6,584 per month
  • 4-6 years of creditable service: $6,857 per month
  • 7-9 years of creditable service: $7,122 per month

In addition to the base salary, officers receive $658.67 Standards of Conduct Differential (SOCD) per month ($7,904 per year). The following are examples of duties and are not necessarily descriptive of any one position in this class. The omission of specific duties statements does not preclude management from assigning such duties if such duties are a logical assignment for the position.

  • Patrols an assigned area on foot or in a mobile vehicle. Watches for and prevents unauthorized activity. Makes arrests.
  • Conducts investigations of complaints, misdemeanors, felonies, traffic violations, crimes of violence, etc. Questions witnesses and suspects.
  • Directs and controls traffic. Conducts investigations of traffic accidents.
  • Responds to emergencies, maintains order, renders first aid, safeguards property, preserves evidence, and detains suspected violators of the laws.
  • Serves warrants, subpoenas and penal summonses.
  • Testifies in court.
  • Takes fingerprints as required.
  • Participates in stake-out, riot and crowd control.
  • May assist and participate in police-community relations activities. Gives talks and participates in panel discussions on juvenile delinquency, traffic safety and other issues.
  • As required, may investigate gambling, morals, and narcotics offenses; act in an undercover capacity; and participate in aerial patrols.
  • May be assigned to other specialized areas such as data processing, research and development, police activities league, junior police program, etc.
  • Familiarizes self with general and special orders, police bulletins and other related materials.
  • Prepares various reports.
Examination Process

Applicants need to be prepared to begin processing within two (2) months of submitting their application. The entire process can take as little as 4 1/2 months. Applicants who are not available for employment within the next 5-8 months should wait to apply. TRIP 1 - WRITTEN EXAM & PHYSICAL ABILITIES TEST (PAT) Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be contacted by HPD via email with additional information and instructions to self-schedule for Trip 1 which will be offered about once per month. Applicants need to schedule Trip 1 within two (2) months of their application date. WRITTEN EXAM Applicants will take a timed, multiple-choice exam which includes the following sections:

  • Observation and Memory
  • Written Communication
  • Reading/Understanding
  • Reasoning/Analytical Ability

To pass, applicants must score a 70 or greater. There is no recommended study material/guides. PHYSICAL ABILITIES TEST (PAT) Applicants who pass the written examination will move on to the PAT the next day. All events must be passed in order to continue in the selection process.

  • Agility Run - 18 seconds
  • 300-Meter Run - 69 seconds
  • Push Ups - 30
  • Sit Ups - 30 in 1 minute
  • 1.5-Mile Run - 17 minutes 31 seconds

Applicants who pass the PAT will continue through HPD's internal selection process which includes completing a online Personal History Statement (PHS), Background Investigation and Panel Interview (online). Applicants who successfully pass all of the pre-offer steps will be given a Conditional Offer of Employment (COE) and will be scheduled for Trip 2 (5 day trip).

Minimum Qualification Requirements

At the time of application, applicants must meet all of the following: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

  • High School Diploma or General Educational Diploma (GED)
  • Possession of a valid motor vehicle driver's license (type 3/automobile)
  • US Citizen, US National, or Legal Permanent Resident (green card holder)
  • Must be able to meet Federal and State eligibility requirements to possess firearms (no felony convictions; no misdemeanor convictions for domestic violence, other violent crimes, or illegal drug sales).

TRAINING REQUIREMENT Successful completion of a police academy which qualifies for the Honolulu Police Department Basic Course Waiver (BCW). To qualify for the BCW, the following is required:

  1. Successful completion of a minimum 200-hour general law enforcement basic training within the United States; AND
  2. Successful completion of 664 hours of general law enforcement training. The 664-hours training requirement may include the applicant's basic course.

Officers who have a valid California POST certificate or valid California POST equivalency certificate automatically qualify for the HPD Basic Course Waiver.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENT Currently employed as a commissioned/sworn law enforcement officer in full-duty status at a municipal, city, county or state law enforcement agency which is recognized by the Honolulu Police Department as performing equivalent duties. Experience with the current employer must include at least two (2) years of post-academy experience performing ALL of the following tasks:

  • Patrolling a geographical area
  • Responding to the full range of requests for police services including response to 911 emergency and non-emergency calls for service at residences, private properties, commercial establishments and government properties
  • Performing enforcement actions on the full-range of law violations
  • Conducting investigations of criminal activity that includes a variety of felony and misdemeanor offenses, and motor vehicle accidents/collisions.

In addition to meeting these minimum qualifications, we highly recommend applicants review HPD's Selection Standards to determine the likelihood in successfully passing the background investigation.

Additional Information

All notifications will be sent via email. Applicants are responsible for monitoring instructions and correspondence by checking email accounts in a timely manner. To ensure proper delivery, please use a valid email account, verify a correct email address is entered into the GovernmentJobs account that is used to apply, and check spam folders on a regular basis. Paper applications are not accepted for this recruitment.