Sworn
Whether we are responding to emergencies, engaging with the community or working behind the scenes, our focus remains on fostering safety, building trust and ensuring justice for everyone in Los Altos.
We Believe In You
At Los Altos PD, we know what experienced officers bring to the table, and we’re here to help you thrive. Whether you’re looking for a healthier work-life balance, stronger support, or just a department that truly sees your value, you’ll find it here. Hear from real laterals who made the move, found their place, and rediscovered why they started this career in the first place. We don’t just welcome laterals, we believe in them.
Sworn Positions
If you’re interested in joining Los Altos Police Department, check out the open positions and apply today.
Academy Graduate
Calling all recent Police Academy graduates! Join our team as an officer and contribute to the City of Los Altos Police Department’s commitment to excellence.Â
Salary
Salary
$133,085.55 – $161,766.32 Annually
Incentive Pay
Incentive pay is in addition to your base salary.
- CIT pay: +1%
- Holiday pay: +5%
- Anti-Bias: +1%
- Intermediate POST Certificate: +5%
- Advanced POST Certificate: +2.5% (7.5% total above base if you have Intermediate and Advanced POST Certificates)
Benefits
Benefits
Medical Coverage
- CalPERS Medical Program
- Health Coverage Opt Out Option
Wellness Program
- Quality of Life Benefit
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Flexible Spending Accounts
Work/Life Balance
- Vacation
- Comp Time
- Sick Leave
- 14 City-Observed Holidays
- Holidays In Lieu
- On-Duty Workout
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
EXPERIENCE:
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is eligible and has applied for citizenship
- Must be able to successfully complete a 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or fewer
EDUCATION:
- Possession of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required
- An Associate Degree or completion of sixty (60) semester units of college level courses is highly desirableÂ
LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS:
- Must possess a valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
- Must possess certificate of completion or diploma from a POST-approved Police Academy
- Must provide verification of the following test results:Â (Verification must be provided on agency letterhead where test was administered, must include test results, and tests must have been completed within 2 year of application date and submitted prior to background process):
- Must have successfully completed the California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) with a T-score of 47 or higher.
- National Testing Network Exam Scores can be submitted in-lieu of PELLETB. Passing score is Video Score: 55, Writing Score: 65, Reading Score: 65.
- City of Los Altos will sponsor the cost to take the PELLETB! After you apply, please contact HR@losaltosca.gov for more information on how to schedule your PELLETB.
- Must have successfully completed the California POST physical agility test (known as the Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB) with a score of 320 or higher
- Must have successfully completed the California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) with a T-score of 47 or higher.
Lateral
Join our team of dedicated public safety individuals who all believe in serving our community with compassion and civility!
Salary
Salary
$133,085.55 – $161,766.32 Annually
Incentive Pay
Incentive pay is in addition to your base salary.
- CIT pay: +1%
- Holiday pay: +5%
- Anti-Bias: +1%
- Intermediate POST Certificate: +5%
- Advanced POST Certificate: +2.5% (7.5% total above base if you have Intermediate and Advanced POST Certificates)
Benefits
Benefits
Medical Coverage
- CalPERS Medical Program
- Health Coverage Opt Out Option
Wellness Program
- Quality of Life Benefit
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Flexible Spending Accounts
Work/Life Balance
- Vacation
- Comp Time
- Sick Leave
- 14 City-Observed Holidays
- Holidays In Lieu
- On-Duty Workout
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
EXPERIENCE:
- Patrol and/or investigative experience with a law enforcement agency is required
- Patrol and/or investigative experience with a California law enforcement agency is highly desirable
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is eligible and has applied for citizenship
- Must be able to successfully complete a 1.5 mile run in 14 minutes or fewer
- Knowledge of law enforcement terminology and Police Officer procedures is desirable
EDUCATION:
- Possession of a high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent is required
- An Associate Degree or completion of sixty (60) semester units of college level courses is highly desirableÂ
LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS:
- Must possess a valid California driver’s license with a satisfactory driving record
- Must possess a POST Basic Certificate
- This certificate is awarded to currently full-time peace officers of a POST-participating agency who have satisfactorily completed the prerequisite Basic Course requirement and the employing agency’s probationary period
Gear Up and Step into A Specialty
Whether you’re drawn to the precision of SWAT, the bonds of K9, the open road of Motors, the investigation work of a detective, or the cutting-edge world of drones and tech, this department gives you room to grow. In a city that embraces innovation, you’ll find your place on a team that values both skill and purpose. Ready to do more? Gear up and step up at Los Altos PD.
Recruitment Process
Prior to hire, candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment process, including a Live Scan background investigation. A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose a conviction will result in disqualification or termination. This applicant pool may be used to fill other vacant positions on an as-needed basis.
Please ensure the required POST Certification is attached with your application. Once your application is reviewed, you will be asked to complete a personal history statement as the next step in the process. Please review and sign the release of information authorization found here (Download PDF reader) and attach the signed copy to your application.
Apply
Personal History Questionnaire
Interview
Background Investigation
The Nose Knows
At Los Altos PD, balance isn’t just a goal, it’s part of who we are. Our K9 teams say it all. One dog is trained to apprehend suspects, and keep our streets safe. The other is trained to comfort, connect, and care for the emotional wellness of our staff and community. Together, they’re a symbol of what we stand for: Strength with compassion, readiness with reflection, and purpose with heart. This is the kind of balance we strive for every day, not just in the work we do, but in the lives we lead.
Opportunities
There are many opportunities at Los Altos Police Department that include Patrol, Traffic, Investigations, Crime Prevention, Canine, and SWAT.
K9
Drone & Tech
SWAT
Motorcycle Unit
Detective
Firearms Instructor
Peer Support Team
Defensive Tactics Instructor
TASER Instructor
Field Training Officer (FTO)
Wellness Team
Bike Unit
