Pasadena Police Recruitment Event Aims to Draw Those Driven by a Higher Purpose

Across the United States, police departments are facing an unprecedented challenge. In an era marked by heightened scrutiny and a sense of disconnect between law enforcement and portions of the communities they serve, recruiting and retaining officers has become increasingly difficult. Yet, amidst this landscape, there are still many who hear the call to serve, driven by a profound sense of duty and a desire to make a difference.

On May 4, the Pasadena Police Department will open its doors to these individuals among others at its “May the 4th Be With You” Recruitment & Hiring Career Expo. More than just a clever play on the famous Star Wars line, this event actually will serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who choose to wear the badge, even in the face of daunting challenges.

Research suggests that the motivations of those aspiring to join the police force in 2024 are multifaceted yet deeply rooted in a commitment to service. For many, the desire to serve their community is a powerful driving force. These individuals are drawn to law enforcement by a genuine desire to ensure safety, foster peace, and make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Others are attracted by the promise of job security and the opportunity for career advancement. In an ever-changing economic landscape, the stability offered by a career in law enforcement is a significant draw. The structured hierarchies within police Departments provide clear pathways for growth, with abundant opportunities for promotion and professional development.

But perhaps most compelling is the intrinsic desire to help others that lies at the heart of many aspiring officers’ motivations. The core responsibilities of police work — protecting the public, assisting those in crisis, and serving as a reassuring presence in difficult times — resonate deeply with those who feel called to make a difference.

For these individuals, the Pasadena Police Department’s recruitment event offers a unique opportunity to take the first steps toward fulfilling that higher purpose. 

Attendees will have the chance to engage directly with officers and Department staff, gaining valuable insights into the realities of a career in law enforcement. They will explore static displays featuring police vehicles and equipment, witness a helicopter landing, and learn about the various roles and opportunities available within the Department.

According to a Department statement, “The Police Department said their goal in this recruitment effort is to create an inclusive and interactive environment where individuals interested in law enforcement can gain valuable insights and forge meaningful connections with the Department and its personnel.”

As of May 1, the Pasadena Police Department is advertising ten positions available for those ready to answer the call to serve. These include Police Officer (Lateral), Police Trainee, Police Cadet, Detention Officer, Helicopter Maintenance Technician, and Community Youth Advisor. Each role offers its own unique challenges and opportunities, but all share the common thread of serving the community and making a difference.

For lateral police officers, the Department is offering a substantial incentive package, including lump sum payments of $2,500 upon successful completion of one month of work, $2,500 after six months, and $3,000 upon completion of the probationary period. These officers will also receive an initial bank of 40 hours of sick leave.

Police trainees, on the other hand, will have the opportunity to start their careers in law enforcement with the City of Pasadena, gaining exposure to a wide range of assignments and opportunities. The Department is seeking dedicated and ambitious men and women who are committed to protecting and serving the vibrant, diverse community of Pasadena.

The Police Cadet program offers college students an introduction to and preparatory training for a career in law enforcement. Cadets perform a variety of tasks in various divisions of the Department, gaining valuable experience and insight into the workings of a world-class law enforcement agency.

For those interested in corrections, the Department is seeking a detention officer to oversee the housing, processing, and preparation of inmates for court appearances at the City’s Type-I jail. This role is crucial in maintaining order and security within the facility, ensuring the safety of both staff and inmates.

The Department is also looking for an experienced Helicopter Maintenance Technician to perform skilled technical work on the City’s helicopters and related equipment. This position requires a detail-oriented individual with a working knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration rules and regulations, manufacturer guidelines, and Department policies and procedures.

Finally, the Community Youth Advisor role offers an opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of young people in Pasadena. These advisors serve as positive role models, providing peer counseling and mentorship to youth at risk for delinquency through the Pasadena Activities League (PAL) Program.

For those who feel the call to serve, the Pasadena Police Department’s “May the 4th Be With You” Recruitment & Hiring Career Expo is an invitation to take the first steps towards a fulfilling career in law enforcement. 

The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, at 207 N. Garfield Ave., in the Pasadena Civic Center area.

Potential candidates are encouraged to register through https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0F4DAAAD2DAAFCC16-48672952-maythe#/.

Plenty of street parking will be available, City officials said.

For more information, call the Employment Services Desk at (626) 744-4505.

To learn more about the Pasadena Police Department, visit https://www.cityofpasadena.net/police/.