What are the responsibilities and job description for the Police Recruit position at City of Ontario?
Police Recruit
$7,306.00 - $8,883.34 Monthly
Police Officer
$8,070.40 - $9,812.40 Monthly (Upon successful completion of the academy)
Special Pays,
The City of Ontario Police Department provides numerous special pay opportunities as an added benefit to officers. Listed below are pay incentives that eligible officers receive in addition to their base pay:
- BILINGUAL PAY, EQUAL TO 6% OF BASE PAY
- EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE PAY, UP TO 7.5% OF BASE PAY (UP TO 8% OF BASE PAY EFFECTIVE 7/13/25)
- SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL PAY, UP TO 3% OF BASE PAY
- SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS:
- MOTORCYCLE PAY, EQUAL TO 5% OF BASE PAY
- AIR SUPPORT/HELICOPTER, EQUAL TO 5% OF BASE PAY
- AIRPORT OPERATIONS, EQUAL TO 5.12% OF BASE PAY
- CANINE PAY, EQUAL TO 5% OF BASE PAY
- PILOT PAY, EQUAL TO 8% OF BASE PAY
If you have a passion for public service and are looking to begin a career in law enforcement, the City of Ontario has a position for you! The Ontario Police Department has an exciting opportunity available for those who are looking to get their start as a Police Officer- Recruit. As a Police Officer - Recruit you will unlock your potential and launch your future career while making a positive impact on the community! Police Recruits attend a 24-week POST-certified Police Officer Training Academy. You will be trained in criminal law enforcement techniques, first aid, and physical conditioning. Upon successful completion of the academy, you will be promoted to the position of Police Officer. Police Recruits are sworn in as Police Officers at a base salary of $8,070.40 - $9,812.40 per month; this does not include incentive pay which you may be eligible to earn, such as bilingual pay, education pay, shift differential, etc. All new Police Officers complete a comprehensive Field Training Officer program, which provides close training and assistance in the field.
Why Ontario? Public Service is our way to make a positive impact on the community. Joining the Ontario team allows you to make a difference by playing a part in our approach to Public Service- Be Committed to the Community, Achieve Excellence through Teamwork and Do the Right Thing the Right Way. You will also have access to competitive pay and benefits, because we understand that in order for you to excel at work, you need to have a sense of security for yourself and your family. Being a part of the Ontario Police Department is the perfect stepping stone for you to be able to reach any level or division of law enforcement you are looking for. The OPD team is committed to helping their members grow and reach their career goals. Do not miss out on your opportunity to be a part of a growing and diverse team!
If your application is accepted, you will be invited to participate in a written examination. Dates and times will be available on a first come, first serve basis.
PELLETB Waiver Request:
Applicants who have taken the PELLETB within 365 days of the application and achieved a T-score of 45 or higher may request a waiver from the PELLETB. Applicants requesting to waive the PELLETB are required to submit proof of their qualifying T-score on agency letterhead from the agency that administered the PELLETB.Background Investigation
All appointments to this position are subject to a satisfactory background investigation conducted by the Ontario Police Department. The background investigation will include the following; passing of a polygraph test, the successful completion of a post-offer medical exam (including drug screen), and a 12 month probationary period. Candidates may be disqualified from further consideration during the background investigation for a variety of reasons including if they have: an excessive number of traffic citations and/or collisions; arrests and/or convictions; a history of illegal substance abuse; poor credit history (factors include bankruptcy, foreclosures, liens, repossessions, and recency); or thefts from a previous employer. For clarification of any of the above disqualifying reasons, please call Police Department Background Unit at (909) 408-1820. The following list describes some areas that are covered in the background investigation:
- Your relatives, references, and acquaintances are asked to comment on your suitability for a career in law enforcement.
- The information supplied regarding your educational history is examined and verified.
- You must list a history of your residences.
- Your work history and experience are examined with regard to your dependability, relationships with fellow workers, trustworthiness, and general job performance.
- Military service records are subject to verification.
- The background investigation considers your management of personal finances (however, being in debt does not automatically disqualify you).
- Your criminal, driving, and insurance records are evaluated. Felony convictions will be grounds for disqualification from the selection process.
The Ontario Police Department
The mission of the Ontario Police Department is to protect life and property, build and maintain authentic relationships, and enhance the quality of life in our community.
- TEAMWORK: Fulfilling community partnerships that instill pride, passion and commitment through communication and performance. Learn from the past and embrace the future through empowerment, respect, and cooperation.
- PROFESSIONALISM: It is not the job we do; it is how we do our job. We are engaging and considerate with our actions, image, and conduct.
- INTEGRITY: We hold honesty as our guiding principle. When faced with difficult decisions, we do the right thing, even in the face of adversity.
- ACCOUNTABILITY: We openly identify and address problems and willingly accept responsibility for our own actions.
- DEDICATION: We are committed to our craft and to the residents, businesses, and visitors of the City of Ontario.
Ontario is an economic leader in the Inland Empire, making it an excellent choice for a law enforcement career. We offer the opportunities and resources of a large department with the teamwork of a small one. Police Officers protect life and property through the enforcement of laws/ordinances and the provision of non-criminal services. Police Officers patrol an assigned beat to identify circumstances that indicate a threat to life or property and to take action to mitigate such threats.
The City of Ontario
The City of Ontario is a dynamic leading community in the Inland Empire with a variety of full-time and part-time employment and volunteer opportunities. Ontario is proud to have the reputation of being a progressive City, providing solid leadership to its citizens and business community. The City provides a full range of services to the community including Police, Fire, Management Services, Community Life & Culture, Community Development, Economic Development, Financial Services, Human Resources/Risk Management, Public Works, and the Ontario Municipal Utilities Company. The City's team is staffed with approximately 1,500 FTE diverse and talented employees who work to support a common goal of providing excellent service to the community.
The City’s vision for the future is very exciting, and we foresee tremendous growth within the year(s) to come. We invite you to learn more about the City of Ontario by reviewing the City’s website. A few useful links are listed below, including a link to the City’s 2024 State of the City video.
2024 State of the City (Video link)
The Ontario Plan (The City’s Comprehensive Business Plan for Development)
Smart Ontario (Information about recent City projects)
Downtown Ontario (What to do in Downtown Ontario)
Ontario's Police Department is at the forefront of law enforcement, including: an aggressive, proactive approach to law enforcement; community-based policing; SWAT unit; helicopter support; canine program; traffic/motorcycle program; forensics unit; and gang suppression unit. The Ontario Police Department also provides public safety for the Ontario International Airport (ONT).Education/Age
Equivalent to a high school diploma or recognized equivalent. Minimum age of 20.5 years at time of application.
Peace Officer Background Investigation
Candidates must demonstrate the ability to successfully complete a Peace Officer Background Investigation conducted by the Ontario Police Department.
Other Requirements
Candidates must possess a valid CA Class C driver's license and an acceptable driving record at the time of appointment. Uncorrected vision of at least 20/80 each eye, corrected to 20/20 with glasses or contact lenses, and normal color vision. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law
Desirable
Some college level coursework in criminal justice administration or a related field. Some knowledge of modern police practices and methods; current laws and ordinances, particularly those of arrest, search, and seizure, and the geography of the City. Bilingual skills are highly desirable.SELECTION PROCESS
Online Application / Supplemental Questions
Applicants must complete a City of Ontario employment application online. Applications and supplemental questions received in response to this job opportunity will be screened to determine if the applicant meets the minimum requirements of the position.
Written Exam
If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled to attend a written exam. Dates and times will be available on a first come, first serve basis. The exam is designed for an entry-level peace officer position, requiring no prior law enforcement experience. The Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) is designed by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). PLEASE REVIEW THE APPLICANT PREPARATION GUIDE / SAMPLE EXAM PRIOR TO TAKING THE WRITTEN EXAM.
The PELLETB is a multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank written examination designed to measure reading and writing ability. Applicants are given 2 ½ hours to complete the PELLETB, which contains five sections:
Applicants must complete a City of Ontario employment application online. Applications and supplemental questions received in response to this job opportunity will be screened to determine if the applicant meets the minimum requirements of the position.
Written Exam
If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled to attend a written exam. Dates and times will be available on a first come, first serve basis. The exam is designed for an entry-level peace officer position, requiring no prior law enforcement experience. The Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) is designed by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST). PLEASE REVIEW THE APPLICANT PREPARATION GUIDE / SAMPLE EXAM PRIOR TO TAKING THE WRITTEN EXAM.
The PELLETB is a multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank written examination designed to measure reading and writing ability. Applicants are given 2 ½ hours to complete the PELLETB, which contains five sections:
- Spelling (applicants select the correct spelling of a word from a list of options)
- Vocabulary (applicants select the correct meaning of a word from a list of options)
- Clarity (applicants select the sentence that is most clearly written from a pair of options)
- Reading Comprehension (applicants read a passage and answer questions about the passage's content)
The passing PELLETB T-Score for the City of Ontario is 45.0. Each agency is permitted to set their own passing PELLETB T-Score.
Interview
Only those candidates with an overall T-Score of 45 or higher will advance to an interview. An interview conducted by a panel from the Police Department will evaluate your experience and training, problem solving ability, inter-personal skills, communication skills, and interest in the position. Additionally, your employment, educational, criminal, and driving history will be evaluated.
Physical Agility Test (P.A.T.)
This test, which is scored on a pass/fail basis, evaluates candidates on various physical maneuvers. You should be in good physical condition to attempt the physical agility test. It is recommended that you begin a physical training program in order to prepare for the P.A.T. and the demands of police work; however, it is a good idea to check with your physician before starting such a program. You should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and athletic shoes for this test. Candidates who pass the P.A.T. are eligible to continue the selection process. The following events comprise the test:
Interview
Only those candidates with an overall T-Score of 45 or higher will advance to an interview. An interview conducted by a panel from the Police Department will evaluate your experience and training, problem solving ability, inter-personal skills, communication skills, and interest in the position. Additionally, your employment, educational, criminal, and driving history will be evaluated.
Physical Agility Test (P.A.T.)
This test, which is scored on a pass/fail basis, evaluates candidates on various physical maneuvers. You should be in good physical condition to attempt the physical agility test. It is recommended that you begin a physical training program in order to prepare for the P.A.T. and the demands of police work; however, it is a good idea to check with your physician before starting such a program. You should wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and athletic shoes for this test. Candidates who pass the P.A.T. are eligible to continue the selection process. The following events comprise the test:
- Body Drag - Lift a 165 pound dummy and drag it as quickly as possible for 32 feet (two trials).
- Obstacle Course - Run 99 yards going around or over obstacles, such as six-inch by six-inch pylons and a 34-inch saw-horse, which may be cleared by climbing, jumping or vaulting (two trials).
- Chain Link Fence Climb - Run five yards, then scale a six-foot chain link fence as quickly as possible, then run an additional 25 yards (two trials).
- Solid Fence Climb - Run five yards, scale a solid six-foot wood fence as quickly as possible, then run an additional 25 yards. This fence may be scaled in any fashion except by use of the fence supports (two trials).
- 500 Yard Run - Run 500 yards as quickly as possible on a paved road (one trial).
Background Investigation and Administrative Interviews
All appointments are subject to a satisfactory background investigation which will include the following; passing of a polygraph test, the successful completion of a post-offer medical exam (including drug screen), and a 12-month probationary period. Candidates may be disqualified from further consideration during the background investigation for a variety of reasons including if they have: an excessive number of traffic citations and/or collisions; arrests and/or convictions; a history of illegal substance abuse; poor credit history (factors include bankruptcy, foreclosures, liens, repossessions, and recency); or thefts from a previous employer. For clarification of any of the above disqualifying reasons, please call the Police Department Background Unit at (909) 408-1820. You begin the background investigation by completing the Personal History Questionnaire. On this form, you must provide the Department with a detailed summary of your educational, employment, financial, legal, and related histories. The following list describes some areas that are covered in the investigation:
All appointments are subject to a satisfactory background investigation which will include the following; passing of a polygraph test, the successful completion of a post-offer medical exam (including drug screen), and a 12-month probationary period. Candidates may be disqualified from further consideration during the background investigation for a variety of reasons including if they have: an excessive number of traffic citations and/or collisions; arrests and/or convictions; a history of illegal substance abuse; poor credit history (factors include bankruptcy, foreclosures, liens, repossessions, and recency); or thefts from a previous employer. For clarification of any of the above disqualifying reasons, please call the Police Department Background Unit at (909) 408-1820. You begin the background investigation by completing the Personal History Questionnaire. On this form, you must provide the Department with a detailed summary of your educational, employment, financial, legal, and related histories. The following list describes some areas that are covered in the investigation:
- Your relatives, references, and acquaintances are asked to comment on your suitability for a career in law enforcement.
- The information supplied regarding your educational history is examined and verified.
- You must list a history of your residences.
- Your work history and experience are examined with regard to your dependability, relationships with fellow workers, trustworthiness, and general job performance.
- Military service records are subject to verification.
- The background investigation considers your management of personal finances (however, being in debt does not automatically disqualify you).
- Your criminal, driving, and insurance records are evaluated. Felony convictions will be grounds for disqualification from the selection process.
- If you have a history of recent or prolonged use of illegal controlled substances (i.e., Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Marijuana, etc.), you may be dismissed from the process.
Conditional Job Offer
Following the successful completion of all prior steps, candidates may be made a conditional job offer. Job offers are conditional upon the successful completion of a medical evaluation and psychological examination.
Medical Evaluation and Psychological Examination
Prior to your actual appointment with the Department, you must pass a comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation. The medical exam verifies that you do not have conditions that would physically prevent you from performing all your duties as an Officer or that would be susceptible to the stress of the job. Such problems may be a cardiac problem or any ailment that restricts your physical movement. Because police work requires mental stability and strong moral character, you must pass a series of written psychological tests and an interview before you can be hired. A psychological exam is conducted by a City-contracted psychologist and involves series of tests, which profiles your personality type and evaluates your suitability for a career in law enforcement.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How will my responses to the Pre-Employment Background Questionnaire be used?
A: Your responses will be reviewed by Ontario Police Department personnel to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
Q: Does the City accept T-scores from another agency?
A: Yes, the City will accept a POST PELLETB T-Score of 45 or greater issued in the last 12 months. In addition, per POST and City of Ontario guidelines, the score must be typed on agency letterhead. The City will provide detailed instructions at a later date for those candidates with T-Scores from another Agency. You may not take more than one PELLETB in any 30 day period.
Q: I received a letter from another agency with a test score, how can I tell if it is a PELLETB T-score?
A: The letter will specifically state that the score is a "PELLETB T-Score." If in doubt, call the agency that conducted the examination. Do not call POST or the City of Ontario.
Q: Can I schedule a ride-along?
A: Ride-alongs are reserved for the candidates that successfully pass the oral interview and are in the background investigation stage.
How to Apply
Apply online by clicking on the "Apply" link at the top of this announcement. If this is the first time applying for a position using governmentjobs.com you will be prompted to create a new user account, otherwise log in with your user name and password. Your application and responses to any supplemental questions will be used to evaluate your qualifications for this position. It is suggested that your application include the following:
- List any relevant experience and education that demonstrates that you qualify for the position.
- List all periods of employment for at least the past 10 years, beginning with your most recent or present employer (including if applicable, all employment with the City of Ontario).
- Separately list each position held, including different positions with the same employer.
A resume may be attached to your application but will not substitute for the proper completion of your application. Applications that are not properly completed may be rejected.
NOTE: Transcripts from colleges, universities or technical schools outside of the United States must be assessed for U.S. equivalency by a NACES educational credential evaluation service. Failure to provide a transcript or credential evaluation report will result in your application being rejected and you will not be able to continue in the selection process for this position.
Supplemental Questions
To complete your application for this position, you will be prompted to respond to supplemental questions. This information will be used as part of the application screening and selection process and is designed to help you present your qualifications for this position. This may include a selection step in which your application and supplemental questions are reviewed and scored by a panel of raters familiar with this position.
Incomplete responses, false statements, omission, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Your responses should be consistent with the information provided on your application.
Please provide succinct, concise, descriptive, and detailed information for each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question.
Email Notices
Email is the primary way that the Human Resources or Hiring Department will communicate with you. Please check your email account (including the SPAM folder) on a regular basis for any emails related to the application or selection process. Emails from the city of Ontario will come from "@ontarioca.gov" or "governmentjobs.com." If you change your email address after submitting your application, please visit governmentjobs.com and update your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any additional questions regarding the application process, please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions page.
Salary : $87,672 - $117,749
