Job Information

LAKE FOREST, CITY OF
800 N FIELD DRIVE
LAKE FOREST, ILLINOIS 60045
847-810-3530

Bookmark: http://nationaltestingnetwork.com/publicsafetyjobs/fullJobDetails.cfm?agencyjobid=2462&jobid=1&agentid=1309

Updated: February 03, 2025

The Lake Forest Police Department is now accepting applications for Police Officers. Qualified candidates who complete the hiring process will be placed in a candidate pool, with multiple hires expected.

All interested applicants MUST apply to Lake Forest's Job Board to be considered. Transferred scores are not qualifying applications. If an applicant transfers their score, they must also apply online.

Position Title: Entry Police Officer

Salary Information: Starting salary for a police officer is $82,729 as of May 1, 2025, with a seven-step pay plan to a top salary of $123,596

The Lake Forest Police Department offers a variety of specialized roles with additional stipends to reward officers for their expertise and leadership:

Night Shift Differential: $1,400
Field Training Officer: $4,000
Evidence Technician: $1,700
Instructor Certification: $1,400
Officer in Charge: $2,000

These specializations provide opportunities for career growth, leadership development, and financial incentives, reflecting our commitment to supporting and rewarding our dedicated officers.

Benefit Information:

Excellent medical, dental, and vision for officer and dependents with low premiums
Vacation, Sick, & Holiday Time
On-site gym (new building will have a brand new, modern gym with other wellness facilities!)
Life insurance through Securian - 1x Salary guaranteed to Police Officers from the City
Education Reimbursement Program
Ongoing training initiatives
Various ancillary benefits through IPBC and EAP programs

Candidate Contact Person
Brina Diaz
HR Generalist
847-810-3533
hr@cityoflakeforest.com

City/County/Area Information: Lake Forest

Population: 19,253

Job Requirements

Age: Minimum of 21 years of age and not more than 34 years old, unless otherwise exempt by Illinois statute (65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-6).
US Citizen: Must be a U.S. Citizen or qualified as a “protected individual” pursuant to 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3)(B)
High School Grad/GED: High school diploma or equivalent
Valid State Driver’s License: Must possess or be able to obtain a valid class B non CDL or equivalent driver’s license
Necessary Certifications: Successfully pass the physical ability Peace Officer Wellness Evaluation Report (POWER) from a certified agency within 12 months prior to BFPC interviews.

Hiring Process:

Apply On Lake Forest's Job Board: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lakeforestil/jobs/4812595/police-officer-entry
Written Exam: Taken through National Testing Network (NTN).
- A fee applies; candidates with financial hardship may request a voucher before registering by emailing hr@cityoflakeforest.com. (Only applicable to new exam fees, not transfer score fee)
- Visit NTN FAQs for fee subsidy details.
- *PSSA is required*
Sparkhire Interviews: Candidates who pass the written exam will complete a one-way video interview. You’ll have 7 days to submit the interview after receiving the invitation.
Command Staff Interview & Ride Along: Candidates who pass the video interview will be invited for an in-person interview and ride along.
BFPC Interview: Final candidates will be invited for an in-person interview with the Board of Fire and Police Commission.

Physical Ability Power Card: Proof of a passing POWER test (within one year) is required at the BFPC interview. You may submit the card with your application or send it to hr@cityoflakeforest.com.

Employment Disqualifiers:

Criminal conviction for a felony crime, or certain misdemeanors as defined by Illinois statute (65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-6).
Previously dismissed from any public service for good cause.
Failure of any portion of the examination process, including but not limited to a medically provided drug screening.
Falsification of any part of the employment application or documentation.
Anyone who is currently using narcotics or drugs, or who is addicted to
narcotics, drugs, or intoxicating beverages and is not currently in a rehabilitation program.

Drug-Free Workplace Notice:

The City of Lake Forest and the Lake Forest Police Department are committed to a drug-free workplace. Applicants who use illegal drugs or abuse legal drugs at any stage of the process will be disqualified.

While past drug use won't automatically disqualify candidates, honesty is essential. Full disclosure of any past drug use is required at every stage of the process. Deliberate misrepresentation of drug history will result in automatic disqualification.

Join a thriving Police Department that’s investing in its people and facilities!
Anticipating the move to the new building in August 2026

Learn more about the new facility in the Lake Forest Love article, "Challenges with Current Police Station, Opportunities for a New Facility"

The City of Lake Forest is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, disability, age, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, LGBTQ identification, family status, or military status.

Women and minorities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Learn more about our Police Department by visiting our website!

Apply Now >