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Polygraph Examiner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Lancaster, CA · On-site

$51.89 - $66.23/hr

Polygraph Examination: Candidates may be required to undergo a polygraph examination. * Psychological Evaluation: A psychological assessment will be conducted to evaluate mental and emotional fitness ...

Police Trainee

Gardena, CA · On-site

$87K/yr

Written Exam - Pass/Fail Physical Agility - Pass/Fail Oral Interview - 100% Polygraph Examination - Qualifying Psychological Evaluation - Qualifying Medical Examination - Qualifying Background ...

Police Recruit

Tustin, CA · On-site

$38.03/hr

... and Polygraph Examination 5. Police Chief's Interview 6. Psychological and Medical Examinations (upon conditional offer of employment) Candidates successfully completing all components of the ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Polygraph Examination * Conditional Offer of Employment * Psychological Examination * Medical Examination PART III - PHYSCIAL AGILITY TEST Part I Testing is designed to evaluate your physical agility ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Polygraph Examination * Conditional Offer of Employment * Psychological Examination * Medical Examination PART III - PHYSCIAL AGILITY TEST Part I Testing is designed to evaluate your physical agility ...

Polygraph Examination * Conditional Offer of Employment * Psychological Examination * Medical Examination PART III PHYSCIAL AGILITY TEST Part I Testing is designed to evaluate your physical agility ...

Police Officer Trainee

Lakeport, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $24.89/hr

Polygraph Examination * Conditional Offer of Employment * Psychological Examination * Medical Examination PART III - PHYSCIAL AGILITY TEST Part I Testing is designed to evaluate your physical agility ...

Showing results 21-40

Polygraph Examiner information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$66.8K

$115K

How much do polygraph examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for polygraph examiner in California is $66,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,000.00 and $84,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a polygraph examiner?

A polygraph examiner conducts polygraph tests, also known as lie detector tests. Polygraph machines are used in law enforcement and criminal justice fields to screen applicants and conduct investigations. Polygraph examiners must be able to administer tests and interpret the results ethically and legally. They may also be called into courtrooms or during related investigations and must be able to explain the test results.

What are some common challenges faced by polygraph examiners during examinations?

Polygraph examiners often encounter challenges such as examinee anxiety, attempts at countermeasures, and the need to remain impartial during emotionally charged interviews. Managing rapport with examinees while upholding strict procedural standards is crucial. Additionally, examiners must accurately interpret physiological data and clearly communicate findings to investigative teams, which requires a balance of technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

Is a polygraph examiner a good career?

A polygraph examiner conducts lie detector tests, often working in law enforcement, security, or private sectors. The role requires specialized training, certification, and attention to detail, with job prospects influenced by demand in criminal investigations and security screening. It can be a stable career for those interested in forensic or investigative work.

How long does it take to be a certified polygraph examiner?

Becoming a certified polygraph examiner typically requires completing a specialized training program that lasts from several weeks to a few months, followed by passing certification exams. Candidates often need to have a background in law enforcement, psychology, or related fields, and must meet state or federal certification requirements, which may include ongoing training and practical experience.

What is the difference between Polygraph Examiner vs Polygraph Technician?

AspectPolygraph ExaminerPolygraph Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certification in polygraphy, often from a recognized certifying body, and sometimes a background in law enforcement or psychologyUsually needs technical training or certification in polygraph equipment operation but less emphasis on certification in polygraphy
Work EnvironmentConducts lie detection examinations, interacts directly with examinees, often in law enforcement or security settingsPrepares, maintains, and operates polygraph equipment, often working behind the scenes in labs or field settings
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by law enforcement agencies, government, or private firms for lie detectionEmployed by polygraph service providers, law enforcement support units, or research institutions

In summary, Polygraph Examiners focus on conducting lie detection tests and require certification and direct interaction with examinees, while Polygraph Technicians handle the technical aspects of polygraph equipment, supporting the examiners' work.

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

To thrive as a Polygraph Examiner, you need a background in criminal justice or psychology, successful completion of accredited polygraph training, and often law enforcement experience. Familiarity with polygraph instruments, data analysis software, and relevant certifications (such as APA or AAPP membership) is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain impartial help examiners gain trust and accurately interpret results. These qualifications ensure both the integrity and effectiveness of polygraph examinations in legal and investigative contexts.
What are the most commonly searched types of Polygraph Examiner jobs in California? The most popular types of Polygraph Examiner jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Polygraph Examiner jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Polygraph Examiner jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Polygraph Examiner jobs? Cities in California with the most Polygraph Examiner job openings:
Infographic showing various Polygraph Examiner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,779 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

$111K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

The Horizon 2 Program provides direct support to the United States Space Forces (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) mission in pioneering, developing and delivering sustainable joint space warfighting capabilities to defend the nation and its allies. The customer base is primarily within the Program Executive Office for Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power (SDA&CP). This is a diverse portfolio of 60+ space and ground based programs valued over $10B to develop, acquire, field, and sustain vital, cutting-edge military space capabilities for our nation's warfighters, civil space, and allies.

We are seeking several engineering positions in support of this program including:

-Model Based Systems Engineers and Senior Model Based System Engineers

-Lead Software Systems Engineer -Senior Principal Systems Engineer

-Principal Operations Integration Engineer

-Chief Launch Integration Engineer

-Chief Systems Engineer and Senior Systems Engineer

-Senior Software Engineer

-Senior Space Systems Engineer

-Principal Ground Systems Engineer

Required Qualifications:

Specific qualifications vary by position but basic qualifications include:

-Bachelors Degree

-Active TS/SCI and be willing to consent to a polygraph examination

-We are hiring at all levels of seniority from Junior to Senior and above