Police Officer - Entry

Hiring Process:

1. Written Exam: Taken through National Testing Network (NTN). 
   • A fee applies; candidates with financial hardship may request a voucher before registering by emailing [email protected]. 
   • Visit NTN FAQs for fee subsidy details.
2. 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.
3. Command Staff Interview & Ride Along: Candidates who pass the video interview will be invited for an in-person interview and ride along.
4. 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 [email protected].

Role of a Lake Forest Police Officer

• Patrol, respond to calls for police service, and self-initiated traffic and/or criminal investigations
• Demonstrate empathy for and assist individuals who are in crisis, living with mental health issues, facing drug addiction, or other life-altering problems
• Preliminary & follow-up criminal and traffic investigations, interviews, arrest and process offenders and testify in court 
• Takes an active role in community policing events and initiatives that build strong and trusting relationships within the community  
• Understand and respect racial and cultural differences and treat people with respect and professionalism.  
• Develop effective communication, human relation, and tactical skills

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.

Age Requirements: At least 21 and not more than 34 years old, unless otherwise exempt by Illinois statute (65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-6) - Applicants who turn 35 prior to being placed in eligibility pool will be disqualified; Applicants who reach 35 after being placed in eligibility pool will be accepted, however, once they reach 36, they cannot be appointed.

Additional Requirements: US citizen or qualified as a “protected individual” pursuant to 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3)(B); Must possess a valid driver's license; high school diploma or equivalent

Physical Ability Power Card: Successfully pass the physical ability POWER test through a certified testing agency within 12 months before the BFPC interviews

Local-certified POWER test sites:

1. NIPSTA (Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy) Glenview, IL. Website: NIPSTA or contact (847) 998-8090 x 106 or email [email protected]
2. Triton College, River Grove, IL. Website: TC POWER test or contact Continuing Education at contact Continuing Education at (708) 456-0300, Ext. 3500 or email [email protected]
3. Joliet Junior College, Joliet IL. Website: JJC POWER test or contact Ryan Harris at (815) 280-2674 or [email protected]

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.

• Starting Salary $85,831 
• Top Step $128,231 
  • does not include overtime or holiday pay
  • Salaries effective 05/01/2026
• 12-hour shifts, with every other weekend off
• Longevity pay
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision for officer and dependents
• 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