Each Developmental Center or Community Facility includes a 24-hour law enforcement agency called the Office of Protective Services that oversees law enforcement and investigative services. The Developmental Centers are staffed with police officers, investigators, and fire personnel. Our Community Facility is staffed with police officers and investigators.
- Be 21 years of age by the date of appointment.
- Have no felonies or other disqualifying misdemeanor convictions and meet the Office of Protective Services Professional Standards Branches Background Investigation Standards.
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible for application for U.S. citizenship.
- Possess a valid California driver’s license by appointment to the position.
- Completion of high school or equivalent to the completion of the 12th grade.
How To Apply for a Peace Officer or Investigator Position
Set up your CalCareers Account
- Visit CalCareer at jobs.ca.gov
- Create an account
- Begin filling in personal and employment information
Find the Position(s) That Interest You
- Visit DDS at Employee Opportunities
- Use “Advanced Search” on the CalCareers website (jobs.ca.gov) to sort vacancies by facility and classification type
Make Sure You Qualify
- View exam bulletins, duty statements, and classification specifications on the CalCareer website to determine your eligibility.
Take an Exam
On the CalCareer website, you can find the exam by viewing the vacancy you’re interested in and selecting the “Apply For This Job” and selecting “I do Not Have Eligibility” option, then following the instructions.
Apply
- Follow instructions to submit your application packet through the DDS website, or by mail.
- A standard State Application (Std. 678) is always required. Some vacancies may require submittal of a cover letter, resume, Statement of Qualifications, etc.
Note: All applications will be screened and only the most qualified (Completion of the POST) will be interviewed. May consider those currently enrolled in a POST approved academy, but must produce evidence of successful completion of the Basic Academy before they may be considered for appointment.
Last modified: June 5, 2024