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Special Task Force Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of El Cajon

Police Recruit

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$38.54 - $93/hr

... Task Force, Traffic, Crisis Negotiation Team, Investigations, and K9 Unit Special assignments with the DEA Narcotics Task Force and FBI Safe Streets Task Force Support Divisions include Records ...

City of Turlock

Police Officer II

Turlock, CA · On-site

$8.0K - $9.7K/mo

... special assignments. This classification is assigned to the Turlock Associated Police Officers ... Task Force, Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force, Stanislaus County Auto Theft Task Force ...

Living Classroom

Volunteer Board Member

Los Altos, CA · On-site

Attend and support lively conversation at least two special events per year, including fundraising ... Serve on at least one board committee or task force. * Make a personal annual financial ...

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Special Task Force information

See California salary details

$19.2K

$82.8K

$127.3K

How much do special task force jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for special task force in California is $82,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Special Task Force?

A Special Task Force is a specialized unit within law enforcement or the military that is assembled to handle high-risk operations, such as counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, or organized crime investigations. Members of a Special Task Force are highly trained in tactics, firearms, and crisis management, often operating with advanced equipment and intelligence support. These units are typically deployed for missions that require skills beyond those of regular police or military personnel, ensuring effective response to complex and dangerous situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Task Force officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Task Force officer, you need advanced physical fitness, tactical training, law enforcement or military background, and often a relevant degree or specialized certifications. Proficiency with firearms, surveillance technology, communications equipment, and sometimes advanced driving or breaching tools is essential. Strong teamwork, stress management, quick decision-making, and adaptability are vital soft skills in this high-pressure role. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure safety, effective mission execution, and the ability to respond rapidly to complex threats.

What are some common challenges faced by members of a Special Task Force, and how are they addressed?

Members of a Special Task Force often encounter high-pressure situations that require quick decision-making and effective teamwork, such as crisis response or tactical operations. These challenges are addressed through rigorous training, clear communication protocols, and strong support systems within the team. Regular debriefings and mental health resources are also commonly provided to help manage the physical and psychological demands of the role. Collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and specialized units is frequent, ensuring coordinated and efficient responses to complex scenarios.

What is the difference between Special Task Force vs Security Guard?

AspectSpecial Task ForceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSpecialized training, certifications in tactical operationsBasic security training, licensing
Work EnvironmentHigh-risk, tactical operations, often on specialized missionsPatrols, access control, monitoring premises
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, military, law enforcementPrivate security firms, commercial properties

The Special Task Force and Security Guard roles differ mainly in training, environment, and scope. The Special Task Force handles high-risk, tactical missions requiring specialized skills, while Security Guards focus on routine surveillance and access control. Both roles are essential in security but serve different operational needs.

Do special task forces get paid?

Special task forces are typically composed of law enforcement or military personnel who are paid salaries or wages for their service. Compensation depends on the agency, rank, and location, and may include benefits such as overtime pay, allowances, or hazard pay. These roles often require specialized training and security clearances.

How to become a special task force?

To become a member of a special task force, candidates typically need a background in law enforcement, military, or security fields, along with specialized training and physical fitness. Applicants often undergo rigorous selection processes, including background checks, interviews, and skill assessments, and may require relevant certifications or clearances depending on the task force's focus. Building experience in tactical operations, communication, and problem-solving is also beneficial.

What does the special task force do?

A special task force is a team assembled to handle specific, high-priority missions that require specialized skills and coordination. They often work on complex operations such as investigations, crisis response, or security tasks, utilizing advanced tools and strategies to achieve their objectives.

What are popular job titles related to Special Task Force jobs in California?

For Special Task Force jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Special Task Force jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Special Task Force jobs in California are:

Special Task Force jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Task Force job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,829 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Task Force Officer (Homeland Security Investigations) - Los Angeles, CA

BNSF Railway

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$107K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

BNSF Railway rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

205th of 365 rated logistics

Job description

Be part of a team that values safety, inclusion, and excellence
We are one of the largest U.S. railroads transporting the nation's freight across 28 western states and 3 Canadian provinces. As a member of our team, you will play a role in supporting the movement of essential products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply, and power communities throughout America and the world.
We are committed to a culture where all employees are included, belong, and have equal opportunity to achieve their full potential. Come make a difference with us!
Learn more about BNSF and our Benefits
Job Location: Los Angeles
Other Potential Locations: Los Angeles, CA
Anticipated Start Date: 10/01/2025
Number of Positions: 1
Salary Range: $107,200 - $126,600
Apply early as this job may be removed or filled prior to the closing date, which is approximately seven (7) days after the posting date.
To learn more about our BNSF Police team, please view this video: Resource Protection
We are currently seeking individuals for nomination to serve with the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) as a Task Force Officer (TFO). This position will be assigned to HSI Los Angeles CA. As a TFO for HSI you will play a crucial role in combating transnational crime and enhancing national security through collaboration with various law enforcement agencies.
This Position will require a Full-Time commitment to the task force and will report to HSI Los Angeles Field Office. This position will be a patrol level assignment and can be tasked by the needs of BNSF Resource Protection Team to be reassigned as needed.
Key responsibilities may include:
Task Force Officer Responsibilities
  • Regularly brief and interact with HSI Executives and BNSF Special Investigations Leadership.
  • Provide subject matter expertise in terms of cargo theft and BNSF equities.
  • Investigative Duties: Task Force Officers (TFOs) are involved in identifying, investigating, and dismantling criminal organizations that threaten BNSF Supply Chain.
  • Collaboration: You will collaborate with federal, state, local, tribal, and international law enforcement agencies. This multi-agency approach enhances the effectiveness of operations against criminal organizations.
  • Training and Designation: As a TFO you will receive specialized training and will be designated under specific guidelines set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
  • Operational Support: You will provide logistical support for field operations, ensuring that adequate personnel and resources are available for railway investigations. As a TFO you will participate in multi-agency operations, contributing your BNSF Railway expertise to achieve successful outcomes.
  • Continuous Improvement: TFOs are expected to promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development within their teams, adapting to emerging trends in criminal activity to inform strategic planning.
  • Responsible for attending all Joint Terrorism Task Force, Homeland Security and local law enforcement meetings across their territory as a representative of BNSF Police.
  • Leads police operations and investigations, including working with local city, county and state law enforcement, local prosecutors, criminal task forces and numerous federal agencies to include: FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Patrol, Secret Service and TSA. These investigations may be extremely intricate, complex and confidential.
  • Plans, executes and develops team resources including personnel and equipment, supervises sensitive corporate and criminal investigations, provides accurate, detailed reports and provides court testimony when required.
  • Counsels and advises company officials and public law enforcement agencies on sensitive criminal investigations.
  • Maintains BNSF readiness to elevated threat by supervising police activity and countermeasures during a heightened security alert in area of responsibility.
  • Maintains and provides data for audit purposes (regulatory, internal and external).

The duties and responsibilities in this posting are representative categories to be used in deciding whether to apply for this position. This is not an exhaustive list of the position's duties.
At BNSF Railway, we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, showcasing their skills, experiences and development. We provide resources and tools to help you reach your full potential, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Must have satisfactorily completed basic police training at a recognized state certified academy
  • Must meet peace officer commissioning standards in state in which this job is posted and be commissioned as such and maintain a valid State Peace Office License in that state.
  • Must meet yearly state mandated police officer standards training and firearms proficiency qualifications.
  • Must meet BNSF Resource Protection Solutions Team standards as a Special Agent
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • Must be willing and able to travel as required
  • Must be able and willing to use the company's computer system for creating reports and databases
  • Must be physically and psychologically fit, able to successfully pass any required company evaluations and pass an extensive background investigation
  • Must successfully complete any required company training for this position
  • Must have broad knowledge of railroad industry and operations; particularly as it relates to handling emergency situations such as derailments, load securement, and like events
  • Must have a broad knowledge of criminal law and procedures
  • Must be able to successfully lead people, often in a stressful critical-event environment
  • Must be able to meet any government or Company training and retention standards
  • Must live or be willing to relocate within 50 miles of the assigned work location
  • Eighteen months of successful experience as a full time peace officer with a city, county, state federal or railroad law enforcement agency required

PREFERED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree

UNION:
  • Allied Services Division, Transportation-Communications Union
  • Dues required per union agreement

At BNSF, you will have access to a comprehensive and competitive benefits package including:
  • An industry-leading 401(k) and renowned Railroad Retirement program.
  • A range of robust health care options for you and your dependents (including domestic partners), including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, mental health, cancer support, and high-quality care network options.
  • Health care spending accounts (HSA) with employer contributions, as well as life and disability insurance, provided at no cost.
  • Family benefits including parental, pediatric and family building support, adoption and surrogacy reimbursement, and dependent care spending account (with employer match).
  • Access to discounts on travel, gym memberships, counseling services and wellness support.
  • Annual bonus (Incentive Compensation Program)
  • Generous leave / time off policies.
  • For more information, visit Benefits.

Please be aware of potential fraud that can occur when searching for new career opportunities. Please review our FAQ for more information and awareness.
All positions require pre-employment background verification, medical review and pre-employment drug screen. You can find more information by reviewing the Hiring Process. Federal authority requires BNSF employees, whose work requires unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities, to obtain a TWIC. More information is available at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic
BNSF Railway is an Equal Opportunity Employer, all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
SF: MO | ((mfield5)) | Operations - Resource Protection | Los Angeles, CA | 90058; 90040; 90023

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