join the sacramento police department
The Sacramento Police Department strives to represent excellence in policing. We do this by anticipating trends, being proactive in all areas, and addressing potential crises before they arise. Our dedication to crime prevention is further strengthened through open and effective communication with the community we are honored to serve.
Open Positions
Police Officer Recruit
Start your career in law enforcement with the Sacramento Police Department. As a Police Officer Recruit, you'll attend a POST-certified Police Academy where you’ll receive paid training to develop the skills necessary to serve and protect the Sacramento community. This is a full-time, entry-level position for those who have not yet completed a police academy.
Must be at least 21 years old at time of appointment
U.S. high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
Must have completed at least 34 semester units (or equivalent quarter units) from an accredited college or university, OR 4 years of active military service
Valid California Class C Driver License
Legally authorized to work in the United States under Federal Law
No felony convictions
Must pass written exam, background check, medical exam, and psychological screening
Police Officer Lateral
Continue your law enforcement career with the Sacramento Police Department. Lateral Officers join the department with previous experience and are eligible for a streamlined hiring process, competitive pay, and lateral-specific incentives. Make an impact in one of California’s most dynamic cities.
Must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent
Must have completed at least 34 semester units (or equivalent quarter units) from an accredited college or university, OR 4 years of active military service
Must be currently employed as a peace officer in California
Possession of a valid P.O.ST. Basic Certificate issued by the State of California
At least two years of full-time sworn peace officer experience
Valid California Class C Driver License
- Legally authorized to work in the United States under Federal Law
No felony convictions
Must pass background check, medical exam, and psychological screening
Incentives
Guaranteed Pay Enhancements
Every new officer receives:
5.25% Holiday Pay
Additional 5% with a Bachelor’s Degree
That's 10.25% above the base salary right from the start if you have a degree!
Earn Even More Over Time
As you grow in your career and take on new responsibilities, you can qualify for additional incentive pay:
5% – Intermediate POST Certificate
8% – Advanced POST Certificate
5.5% – Detective Assignment
9.5% – Field Training Officer (FTO) Assignment
2% – Bilingual Pay
With time, experience, and the right assignments, you could earn up to 34.75% above the base salary through incentives.
Lateral Hiring Incentives
Sick Leave Bonus
New lateral hires receive a one-time sick leave bonus for use within their first two years:
1–5 years of experience: 40 hours
6–10 years of experience: 80 hours
10+ years of experience: 120 hours
Note: This sick leave has no cash value and expires after two years.
Supplemental Administrative Time Off (ATO)
Lateral hires may receive extra paid time off (ATO) to match what they would’ve earned if they had been with the City the whole time.
Total ATO + vacation time may be received up to the City’s limit (480 hours).
ATO has no cash value.
Why sacramento pd
Health Insurance
Annual Salary
Retirement Plan
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Wellness Program
Start Your Application
