The Turlock Police Department is looking for a few good men and women, and in an effort to locate them, the department will hold a job fair from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Turlock Police Department, 244 N. Broadway.
Turlock PD currently has openings for eight police officers, three dispatchers and an evidence/property specialist.
The department is also offering bonuses up to $20,000 to police officers.
"It's kind of the norm right now because departments are competing for top-flight applicants," said Capt. Steve Rodrigues of the bonuses. "We're trying to find the right people to fit our community needs. We want somebody who wants to work for a police department that is heading in the right direction."
Graduates of the police academy, or police officers looking to make a lateral move, can make an annual salary of up to $97,608 - with a onetime signing bonus - and the potential to earn 34.5 percent more in incentives, a 3 percent/50 PERS retirement (for eligible police officers), four-days-on/four-days-off schedule, special assignment opportunities, and veteran preference points.
Academy trainee incentives include $3,000 at swearing-in date and $3,000 at completion of three years of service. A veteran who was honorably discharged will receive an additional $4,000 ($7,000 total) upon completion of three years of service from swearing-in date.
The incentive breakdown includes a $3,000 bonus at swearing-in date for Police Officer I and II positions and $3,000 upon completion of three years of service. A veteran who was honorably discharged will receive an additional $4,000 ($7,000 total) upon completion of three years of service from swearing-in date.
Lateral police officer incentives include $5,000 at swearing-in date; $5,000 upon completion of probation; and $5,000 upon completion of three years of service.
"We went before the city council a month and a half ago to get the signing-bonus incentive to help with our recruitment with laterals, and academy graduates," said Rodrigues. "We're looking to increase staffing levels to satisfy the highest level of customer service to public." Dispatchers need a high school diploma or GED certificate, and a certificate verifying they can type at least 35 words per minute. They can make up to $66,276 annually,
The evidence/property specialist - like dispatchers, a non-sworn position - performs administrative duties associated with the maintenance and control of police property, evidence, found property, supplies, and to protect the integrity of evidence throughout the judicial process. The job pays between $4,328 and $5,388 monthly. The closing date for applications is June 26 at 5 p.m.
Saturday's job fair is open to police officers, academy graduates or anybody interested in a career in law enforcement.
“We can answer questions and help those who are interested in becoming a police officer get on track," said Rodrigues.
For more information, visit cityofturlock.com and click on the Current Job Opportunities tab and scroll down to Police Department for all openings.
