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Polygraph Examiner Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Madera

Police Officer Trainee

Madera, CA · On-site

$64K - $82K/yr

Persons selected for further consideration will be required to successfully pass a polygraph examination, background investigation and chief's interview before being offered a conditional appointment.

City of Gardena

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 ...

City of Lakeport

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 ...

City of Lakeport

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 ...

City of Lakeport

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 ...

City of Tustin

Police Recruit

Tustin, CA

$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 ...

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Polygraph Examiner information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$66.8K

$115K

How much do polygraph examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 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.

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 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.

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 national certification requirements, which may include ongoing education and practical experience.

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.
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For Polygraph Examiner jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Polygraph Examiner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Polygraph Examiner job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,779 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

Sheriff's Correctional Deputy Cadet

Santa Clara County Office of the Sheriff

San Jose, CA • On-site

$8.3K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

County of Santa Clara:  Sheriff's Correctional Deputy Cadet (Unclassified)

Salary

  • Hourly: $47.98
  • Biweekly: $3,838.24
  • Monthly: $8,316.19
  • Annual: $99,794.24

Location: San Jose Metropolitan Area, California

Job Details

  • Job Type: Full-Time
  • Department: Custody Bureau
  • Bargaining Unit: 31

Position Description

Launch your law enforcement career with one of California's premier Sheriff's Offices. As a Sheriff's Correctional Deputy Cadet, you'll be paid while attending a state-certified academy and receive the training, skills, and experience needed to protect your community. This is the first step toward a challenging, rewarding career with excellent pay, outstanding benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

Note: Peace officers must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law (Government Code §1031, effective January 1, 2023).

Hiring Process:

Santa Clara County has partnered with Whalls Group to work with candidates throughout the hiring process.

The hiring process includes a written exam, physical fitness test, polygraph, psych examination, oral interviews and background investigation.

If you have already taken one of the following written tests in the last year, the County will accept your passing score:

  • S.T.C. Adult Corrections Officer (ACO) Examination
  • National Testing Network (NTN) REACT Examination for Corrections
  • P.O.S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB)

Typical Duties

Employees in this classification may perform duties including:

  • Attend California Correction Academy training
  • Participate in academic instruction, hands-on training, and physical conditioning
  • Complete training meeting California Standards and Training for Corrections (S.T.C.) requirements
  • Participate in defensive tactics, role-playing scenarios, and control techniques
  • Complete defensive tactics training, including:
    • Ground control
    • Baton training
    • Control holds
    • Takedowns
  • Serve as a Disaster Service Worker (DSW), when required
  • Perform other related duties as assigned

Employment Standards

Applicants must possess sufficient education, training, and experience to successfully perform the duties of the position.

Education: Graduation from high school or possession of a GED/equivalent.

Special Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Be at least 20 years old to apply and 21 years old before appointment
  • Have never been convicted of a felony
  • Pass a comprehensive medical examination
  • Meet vision standards:
    • Minimum 20/100 vision, correctable to 20/20
    • Normal depth perception
    • Normal color perception
  • Demonstrate and maintain the physical fitness required for the position
  • Successfully complete:
    • Background investigation
    • Fingerprinting
    • Criminal history review
    • Psychological evaluation
    • Polygraph examination
    • Medical examination
  • Possess legal authorization to work in the United States
  • Possess a valid California driver's license before appointment
  • Maintain County driver authorization

Disaster Service Worker Requirement

Pursuant to California Government Code Sections 3100–3109, all County employees are designated Disaster Service Workers (DSWs). Employees are required to complete DSW training and report to work during emergencies as directed.

Knowledge Required

Applicants should possess knowledge of:

  • Common computer systems and applications
  • English grammar, spelling, punctuation, and written communication

Skills and Abilities

Successful candidates must be able to:

  • Learn and apply departmental policies, procedures, laws, and regulations
  • Follow written and verbal instructions
  • Communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds
  • Establish and maintain professional working relationships
  • Use standard computer systems and software

Physical Requirements

Applicants must be able to:

  • Perform physically demanding tasks requiring:
    • Strength
    • Coordination
    • Endurance
    • Agility
  • Meet departmental uniform standards


    Employer Information

    County of Santa Clara

    70 W. Hedding Street
    San Jose, CA 95110

    Website: http://www.sccjobs.org

    #IND123

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