
petaluma police department
The Petaluma Police Department is committed to maintaining public safety and building strong relationships with the community. With a dedicated team of sworn officers and civilian personnel, we work together to ensure Petaluma remains a safe and welcoming place for all residents. Our department values integrity, service, and professionalism, providing officers with the training and resources needed to excel in their careers.
Open Positions
Police Officer Trainee
Earn a base salary of $91,780 Annually
As a Police Officer Trainee, you will be a non-sworn, full-time employee of the City of Petaluma. This position offers a comprehensive training program designed to prepare you for a career in law enforcement. Trainees receive pay and benefits during their training period.
Minimum Requirements:
Age: Be at least 21 years of age at the time of graduation from the Police Academy.
Education: Have education equivalent to completion of high school.
License: Possess a valid California Driver License.

Police Officer (Academy Participant / Recent Graduate)
Earn base salary of $118,768 annually*
Salary with Specialty Pay up to $151,070
July 2025 - 3% COLA - $100,588 - $122,324 annually
This role is tailored for individuals who are currently attending or have recently graduated from a police academy. You will have the opportunity to apply your training and serve the Petaluma community.
Minimum Requirements:
Age: Be at least 21 years of age at the time of graduation from the Police Academy.
Academy Training: Be a current POST Academy Attendee or GraduateHave achieved a PELLET B T-Score of 42 or better or have the degree equivalent.
Education: Have education equivalent to completion of high school.
License: Possess a valid California Driver License.

Lateral Police Officer
Earn base salary of $118,768 annually* and a $25,000 HIRING BONUS*
Salary with Specialty Pay up to $151,070
July 2025 - 3% COLA - $100,588 - $122,324 annually
For experienced officers seeking new opportunities, the lateral position allows you to bring your expertise to the Petaluma Police Department.
Minimum Requirements:
Experience: Be currently employed as a peace officer in good standing by a California-authorized jurisdiction.
Training: Have successfully completed your Field Training program in your current agency.
Certification: Must possess a basic P.O.S.T. certification and maintain firearms qualification.
Education: Possession of a valid California Class C driver’s license.
License: Valid California Class C driver’s license.

perks & benefits
Special pays:
Uniform Pay
1.5% of Step 5 of Police Officer annual salary
POST Certificate Pay
5% for POST Intermediate Certificate, 7% for POST Advanced or Supervisory Certificates.
Bilingual Pay
up to $200 per month
Field Training Officer, Traffic Officer, Detective, K-9 Officer
5% as assigned
SWAT
2.5% as assigned
Shift Differential
3% if assigned to swing shift, 5% if assigned to graveyard shift
Longevity Pay
2.5% after 5 years, 5% after 8 years, 7.5% after 11 years, 10% after 15 years of service with the City
benefits:
CalPERS Retirement
3% at 55 for "classic" members, 2.7% at 57 for new members.
CalPERS Health Program
City pays 95% of Bay Area Kaiser rate premium for employee and eligible dependents
Holiday Pay
156 hours per year
Sick Leave
Earn 96 hours per year with unlimited accrual
Compensatory Time Off Bank
Earn hours at 1.5 times actual hours worked up to 240 hours
Vacation Time
Earn 80-200 hours per year depending on years of service as a Police Officer
Cash in Lieu of Medical/Dental Benefits
Receive 50% of Kaiser Bay Area premium and Dental premium as cash payment (with proof of other insurance for employee and eligible dependents)
Paid Parental Leave
Up to 8 weeks (or equivalent hours) of paid time for qualifying family bonding