1

Polygraph Examiner Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

In addition, eligible candidates selected for hire from the certified list for Police Department positions will be required to submit to a polygraph examination, medical, visual, psychological and ...

Polygraph Examiner information

See Reno, NV salary details

$32.9K

$67.5K

$116.2K

How much do polygraph examiner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for polygraph examiner in Reno, NV is $67,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,400.00 and $85,200.00 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 Reno, NV? The most popular types of Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV are:
What are popular job titles related to Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV? For Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Polygraph Examiner jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Polygraph Examiner jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Polygraph Examiner job openings:
Infographic showing various Polygraph Examiner job openings in Reno, NV as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,467 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Washoe County School District rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

481st of 627 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Education Support Professionals - ESP/Classified - Other
Job Number 2000017801
Start Date
Open Date 07/01/2026
Closing Date 12/31/2026
Attachments
School Police Officer
SCHOOL POLICE OFFICER
This recruitment is for lateral Police Officers who hold a valid POST Category I/Peace Officer Certificate, and have completed a POST-certified Police Academy program.
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION
Under general supervision, routine security, peacekeeping, and other activities involving the protection of persons and property at assigned campus(es). Major emphasis is placed upon working positively with adolescents. Previous experience and/or educational training in working with young people is highly desirable. Incumbent performs related work as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Patrols campus parking lots, hallways and other district facilities to enforce state, federal, and local laws and District rules and regulations.
  • Removes disruptive or unauthorized individuals from classroom and/or campus.
  • Performs crime prevention, truancy prevention, crowd control and traffic safety activities.
  • Confers directly with and assists students, parents, law enforcement agency representatives, school officials and other District personnel in maintaining peace and security on campus.
  • Receives and responds to complaints and calls for protection of persons and property; cites and/or arrests violators as necessary.
  • Performs investigations of crimes by securing and preserving the crime scene for the collection of evidence, and interviewing victims, witnesses, and potential suspects.
  • Prepares original written reports of arrests, injuries, hazardous conditions, and general information; prepares and maintains daily activity logs.
  • Works day, night, and/or extra-curricular shifts. May be required to work on 24-hour call.
  • May testify in court or at administrative proceedings.

QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way to obtain knowledge and skills would be:
  • Education: Equivalent to a high school diploma.
  • Licenses/Certificates:
    • Possess and maintain a Nevada driver's license;
    • Nevada Peace Officer Standard Training (POST) and "Basic" Peace Officer Certificate (a Basic Corrections Certificate does not meet this requirement);
    • Completion of the Police Mountain Bicycle Training Course within one (1) year of employment;
    • First aid and CPR certificates.
  • Must be able to Successfully Complete/Pass/Obtain:
    • Nevada POST Physical Fitness Test
    • Written Civil Service Exam
    • Interview(s)
    • Comprehensive Background Investigation
    • Polygraph Examination/CVSA Examination
    • Medical Physical Examination - Fitness for Duty
    • Phycological Examination
    • Nevada POST Certified Law Enforcement Academy

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES
Knowledge (What you know)
  • Basic principles and practices of police work and law enforcement including:
    • Patrol
    • Investigation
    • Apprehension
    • Custody
    • Identification
  • Federal, state, and local laws, rules, and policies pertaining to educational institutions, such as:
    • Traffic safety
    • Crowd control
    • Adolescent development
    • Juvenile crime
  • Interviewing and counseling techniques.
  • Programs available for "at-risk" juveniles.
  • Welfare laws and regulations pertaining to juveniles.
  • Conflict resolution techniques.

Skills (What you can do proficiently)
  • Communicating effectively, verbally and in writing, with:
    • Students
    • Parents
    • School and District personnel
  • Crisis and counseling intervention.
  • Establishing and maintaining working relationships with others.
  • Recognizing various signs of abuse (e.g., drug, physical, sexual, mental).
  • Cognizing potentially dangerous situations and people accurately and efficiently.

Abilities (What you are capable of doing)
  • Thinking and reacting effectively in stressful and emotional situations.
  • Intervening in crisis situations.
  • Applying conflict resolution techniques in real-time.
  • Maintaining composure and judgment under pressure.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Lifting objects up to 25 lbs.: Frequently
  • Lifting objects over 25 lbs.: Rarely
  • Sitting for extended periods: Continuously
  • Standing for extended periods: Occasionally
  • Walking for extended periods: Occasionally
  • Bending or stooping: Occasionally
  • Reaching above shoulder height Occasionally
  • Pushing/pulling objects: Occasionally
  • Climbing stairs or ladders: Occasionally
  • Operating heavy machinery: Rarely
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions: Frequently
  • Exposure to loud noises: Continuously
  • Working in confined spaces: Rarely
  • Working at heights: Rarely
  • Working with hazardous materials: Rarely
  • Repetitive hand or arm movements: Rarely

Definitions:
  • Never: The activity or condition does not occur.
  • Rarely: The activity or condition occurs less than 10% of the time.
  • Occasionally: The activity or condition occurs 10-30% of the time.
  • Frequently: The activity or condition occurs 30-60% of the time.
  • Continuously: The activity or condition occurs more than 60% of the time.

THIS JOB SPECIFICATION SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO IMPLY THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE STANDARDS OF THE POSITION. INCUMBENTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW ANY OTHER INSTRUCTIONS, AND TO PERFORM ANY OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THEIR SUPERVISOR.
The Washoe County School District is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning and working environments for all students, staff, and visitors. The District prohibits bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and/or discrimination based on an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veterans or military status, marital status, disability or the presence of any sensory, physical or mental handicap in any of its educational programs/activities and employment, or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The district prohibits discrimination against any youth group listed in Title 36, as a patriotic society, (i.e. Boy Scouts of America) from access to public school facilities for use.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Washoe County School District is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The Washoe County School District is committed to providing all applicants and employees equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, military status, or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Here at Washoe County School District, we are a diverse group of people who honor the differences that drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our students and employees. We believe that through a culture of inclusivity, we have the power to reflect on the community we serve.
Internal Job Number 2026/27
Salary
Step 1: $28.32
Salaries are subject to adjustment and may increase and decrease each fiscal year. New employees hired by Washoe County School District are normally placed on the entry step of the grade of the position. View the salary schedules here.
Prior law enforcement experience may be considered when determining step placement upon hire.
Additional Job Information
Benefit packages are available for all employees, eligible employees who are regularly scheduled to work 27.5 hours per week or more receive full benefits of the District which include but are not limited to;
  • No waiting period on Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
    • Employees may select an insurance plan wherein WCSD contributes 100% of insurance premiums.
  • Sick Leave, Holiday Pay and Vacation Pay
  • Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
    • Contribution options will be explained in detail during the New Employee Orientation.
  • Salary Increases
  • Longevity Bonuses
  • Guidance Resources
  • And More - Visit our Benefits page for more information.

Temporary employees working less than 6 months do not receive benefits.
New employees will be fingerprinted upon hire and every five years thereafter and will have $58.50 deducted from their first paycheck to help defray the cost of fingerprinting. Non-licensed employees will have $58.50 deduction when their fingerprints are completed every five years. Fingerprint fees are subject to change.
The job offer is conditional until a report is returned from the FBI and Nevada Department of Public Safety that meets the standards of WCSD for employment purposes
Any applicant who would like to request a reasonable accommodation in any step of the selection process should contact Human Resources at (775) 348-0321

What Washoe County School District employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom