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.

Hiring Process

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.
- Visit NTN FAQs for fee subsidy details.
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.

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"

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

Role

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

NIPSTA (Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy) Glenview, IL. Website: NIPSTA or contact (847) 998-8090 x 106
Triton College, River Grove, IL. Website: TC POWER test or contact Continuing Education at (708) 456-0300 x 3500.
Joliet Junior College, Joliet IL. Website: JJC POWER test or contact Janet Graham at (815) 280-2674.

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.

Salary & Benefits

Starting Salary $82,729
Top Step $123,596
- does not include overtime or holiday pay
- Salaries effective 05/01/2025
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

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!

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