The men and women of the Westminster Police Department take great pride in providing quality law enforcement services to the residents and businesses in the community. We have a long standing tradition of providing policing services in partnership with the members of our community. As a result of these programs and services, we are proud to police the citizens of Westminster.
The Westminster Police Department has a variety of professional positions available to qualified men and women who seek a challenging career and stable future in law enforcement. Commit to making a difference with one of the most reputable agencies in the county.
Traffic Unit/Investigations & Motor Officer assignments
General Detectives
Narcotics Unit
TARGET Gang Team
Family Protection Unit
Metro Team (community oriented policing unit)
Vice/Intelligence Investigators
SHIELD Officer
Administrative Services Bureau
Frequent special assignment rotation
We are looking for applicants who desire a career in public service, believe in Community Oriented Policing, enjoy cultural diversity, and are willing to be part of a creative team. Look below for common questions about becoming a police officer at our department.
Law enforcement is a unique and challenging career choice. This job is not for everyone. It is NOT a job you simply “try out.” If you have never researched police work before and know nothing about law enforcement, we highly recommend you take a detailed look into what we really do, how we do things and what it takes to do them.Prior to beginning any career in law enforcement you are required to complete a 6 month police academy, like the Academies offered at Goldenwest College and Rio Hondo Junior College. Ask about the pre-academy courses.
How do I start the process? All qualified applicants are welcome to apply, however, we are not always hiring. Availability depends upon vacancies for the position of Police Officer. If there is no vacancy for the position you desire, you may e-mail a resume to jbodine@Westminster-CA.gov.We will contact the most desirable applicants when the next testing process begins.
If you have any questions, please contact Officer Jim Bodine at (714) 548-3752.
PERSretirementCity paid - 3% @ 50 for sworn personnel
PERSretirementCity paid - 2.5% @ 55 for civilian personnel
10% special assignment pay (sworn personnel only)
Education pay - 5% for A.A. Degree, 10% for B.A./B.S. Degree
Continuous Meritorious Service pay, up to 10%
Bilingual pay $150 per month
Paid medical upon retirement
Bi-weekly payroll
120 hours vacation annually (up to 160 hours after 5 years)
Sick leave benefits (96 hours a year)
10 holidays (including 2 floating holidays)
3/12 and 4/10 work schedule
$967.00 per month for health benefits; unused balanced is reimbursed annually to the employee.
5% Field Training Officer pay
Education Reimbursement up to $1,000 per year
Employee credit union- deferred compensation
* Maximum compensation includes 10% Special assignment pay, 10% Continuous Meritorious Service pay, 10% Education pay.
** Maximum compensation includes 10% Continuous Meritorious Service pay, 10% Education pay.
What could disqualify me from becoming a police officer?
Felony conviction(s)-disqualification
Misdemeanor conviction(s)
Illegal drug usage
Job termination
Dishonesty
Financial Irresponsibility
All variables are subject to review and based upon the successful completion of a thorough background investigation.
What does it take to become a police officer?
Meet the minimum Police Officer Standards & Training (POST)Requirements.
Successfully complete a background investigation.
Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
A high school diploma or the G.E.D. equivalent (college is preferred).
A valid California driver’s license.
21 years of age or older.
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Vision 20/80 uncorrected; 20/20 corrected (color vision and hearing must be normal).
Good physical conditioning, height and weight proportional; occasionally requires extraordinary physical activity, for example: running, climbing, pushing, pulling, carrying and lifting objects.
What does the hiring process involve? Total commitment and determination are needed to initiate and complete the hiring process for interested applicants. Our hiring practice is thorough and we ask our applicants to understand we need them to commit to the process 100%.
You will be involved in an intense background investigation. There will be detailed and confidential information asked of you regarding your criminal history, illegal drug usage, personal finances, medical history, schooling, job history, including personal and job references, prior room mates, current and former spouses, landlords, current and past neighbors and many other resources helpful in determining moral character.
You will be subject to a polygraph examination, written and oral psychological examinations, a medical examination, oral interviews and a variety of requests for specific documentation and information in order to complete the hiring process.