Police Officer - Lateral

The City of Lake Forest is seeking experienced, dedicated law enforcement professionals to join our Police Department as Lateral Police Officers!

With more than 130 years of service to the Lake Forest community, our department takes pride in providing exceptional public safety services while fostering a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and community engagement.

Our officers have opportunities to gain experience in a wide variety of patrol and investigative functions, along with specialized assignments and participation in regional mutual-aid organizations, including NIPAS, LCMCTF, MCAT, and IMAT.

We value officers who are committed to serving their community, building meaningful relationships, and continuing to grow professionally. If you're looking for a department that values your experience, supports your development, and encourages you to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you!

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

Minimum Qualifications
To be considered for a Lateral Police Officer position with the Lake Forest Police Department, candidates must meet the following requirements at the time of application:

• Law Enforcement Experience: At least two years of full-time experience as a sworn, certified law enforcement officer within the past three years. Municipal law enforcement experience is preferred.

• Certification: Current certification through the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB), with no more than 40 hours of training required for recertification, OR successful completion of an out-of-state Basic Police Officer Training program that meets ILETSB reciprocity requirements.

  • Part-time law enforcement certification and corrections officer certification do not satisfy this requirement.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

• Driver's License: Possession of a valid driver's license.

• Work Authorization: Must meet applicable Illinois law enforcement eligibility requirements, including authorization to work in the United States and eligibility to possess a firearm under federal law.

• Background: Must meet applicable criminal history and background investigation requirements for appointment as a police officer under Illinois law.

Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with specialized training, certifications, or experience are especially encouraged to apply! Areas of interest include:

• Evidence Technician

• Firearms Instructor

• Field Training Officer

• Criminal Investigations

• Specialized Units or Regional Task Forces, including NIPAS, MCAT, and similar assignments

Additional Information
There are no residency restrictions for this position.Compensation & Benefits

• Starting Salary: $107,031 – $121,164, depending on qualifications and experience

• Specialty Pay & Stipends: Additional compensation opportunities for

  • Night Shift Differential

  • Certified Instructor

  • Field Training Officer

  • Evidence Technician

  • Officer in Charge

• Longevity Pay: Additional compensation recognizing years of service

• Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, personal days, and compensatory time

• Paid Parental Leave: Available following the birth or adoption of a child

• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance

• Professional Development: Tuition assistance program and ongoing training opportunities

• Retirement Benefits: Police pension program, voluntary 457 plan, and Roth IRA options

• Residency: No residency restrictions

This position is open until filled. There is no guarantee of further consideration for candidates submitting an application. Inclusion in any lateral entry candidate screening process shall be based upon the candidate's qualifications above the stated minimum qualifications and the hiring needs of the Department at the time of review. 

The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.