Recruitment

Interested in becoming a member of the Santa Ana Police Department?

ABOUT SANTA ANA
Santa Ana is a dynamic, growing city with a population of over 350,000 situated between Los Angeles and San Diego, measuring 28 square miles. The urban center and County Seat of Orange County, Santa Ana has a wealth of diversity, from its people and their rich multi-ethnic backgrounds to its skyline where historic buildings stand gracefully alongside contemporary office and retail complexes. Santa Ana residents enjoy a variety of recreational and educational activities, an ideal climate, and individuals who can provide the highest quality services to our community.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Successful officers are characterized by the ability to make sound decisions, which are based on fact, not emotion, quickly and repeatedly throughout the day. They demonstrate a strong sense of fairness and the ability to apply both the spirit and letter of the law within legal parameters of discretion. With a genuine concern for the safety of the community and the quality of life of its citizens, successful police officers are alert and ready to take action. They enjoy both working alone and as an integral part of a team effort. Ideal candidates are proficient in writing reports, handling paperwork, and willingly work varying shifts, including weekends and holidays.

SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS
  • Administrative/Training Services
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  • Homicide Investigations
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  • Air Support
  • Internal Affairs
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  • Background Investigator
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  • Juvenile Investigations
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  • Bike Patrol
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  • Motor Officer
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  • Business Liaison Officer
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  • Mounted Patrol
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  • Canine Handler
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  • Narcotics Investigations
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  • Career Criminal Unit
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  • Orange County Auto Theft Team
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  • Civic Center Patrol
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  • Polygraph Examiner
  • Collision Investigation Unit
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  • Public Information Officer
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  • Computer Support Services
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  • Range Master
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  • Court Liaison
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  • Special Enforcement Directed Patrol
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  • Driving Simulator Instructor
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  • Strategic Information Crime Analysis
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  • DUI Enforcement
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  • SWAT
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  • Gang Investigator
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  • Terrorism Task Force
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  • District Investigations
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  • Vice
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    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    • U.S. Citizenship or possess permanent resident alien status and have applied for citizenship
    • Must be a high school graduate, have passed the GED test, have passed the CA High School Proficiency Exam, OR have attained a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university (college work highly desirable)
    • At least 20.5 yrs of age at the time of application
    • Possess a valid California driver license at the time of appointment

    Disqualifiers (partial list):

    • Any felony conviction
    • Misdemeanor conviction involving crimes of moral turpitude
    • Three or more moving violations and/or at-fault collisions during the past 3 years
    • DUI conviction within 3-years
    • Criminal conviction, which prohibits firearm possession (Example: a Domestic Violence conviction)
    • Illegal drug use will be discussed on a case-by-case basis

    SELECTION PROCESS

    • Written Examination (some may be exempt)
    • Physical Agility Test
    • Oral Examination
    • Background Investigation
    • Background Oral Examination
    • Polygraph Examination
    • Psychological Examination
    • Medical Examination

    For more information, refer to the City website or call (714) 647-5340 or (714) 647-5353 for more information.

    For information on recruitment for non-sworn positions within the department or in other City departments, click here.