*Lateral Police Officer

Lateral Entry Program

The City of San Marcos offers a Lateral Entry Program. Eligible TCOLE-certified candidates may be placed at a salary of up to $92,016.710 per year, depending on qualifications. *Out-of-state Lateral Peace Officers are also eligible for placement at this level and will receive their full lateral pay while obtaining TCOLE certification.

Hiring Incentive

Officers hired from this list will be eligible for a $5,000 hiring incentive, with $2,500 paid at hire and $2,500 paid upon successful completion of training.

Physical Fitness Assessment

Candidates should be prepared to take the Physical Fitness Assessment.

Application Process

Applicants will be required to submit a Personal History Statement and supporting documents (e.g., high school transcripts, college transcripts, training documents) electronically to: SMPD-recruiting@sanmarcostx.gov. You will not be required to submit your Personal History Statement if you do not pass the physical fitness assessment. You will be contacted by email with information regarding the Personal History Statement. Due to the requirements in the Personal History Statement, please begin collecting the needed documents and information ASAP.

The following list highlights the main responsibilities of this position. While it covers the core tasks, it may not include every duty that could be assigned. Employees may be asked to take on other responsibilities as needed to support the team and department.

• Enforces local, state, and federal laws and ordinances in accordance with department policies and procedures.
• Responds to emergency and non-emergency calls for service, including crimes in progress, accidents, disturbances, and requests for assistance.
• Participates in crime prevention, criminal investigations, recovery of stolen or missing property, and the arrest and prosecution of offenders.
• Aids the sick and injured and supports other emergency services personnel.
• Prepares organized, detailed, and concise written reports and documentation using proper grammar and spelling.
• Engages in community policing efforts, including public education, mediation, and conflict resolution.
• Attends shift briefings, court proceedings, training sessions, and community meetings.
• Operates police vehicle and specialized equipment safely and effectively.
• Performs specialized functions based on assignment (e.g., K-9, SWAT, training, investigations).
• Maintains professional integrity, accountability, and adherence to department values and protocols.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Age: Must be no older than 50 years of age at the time of hire.
• Have at least one (1) year of prior work experience as a full-time commissioned peace officer with similar duties in a comparable law enforcement agency.
• Must meet all TCOLE and Local Government code chapter 143 requirements.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record.
• Extensive background investigation required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Thirty (30) college credit hours from a regionally accredited institution, or
• Two (2) years of active military service, or
• Six (6) years of reserve military service or National Guard experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of law enforcement methods, criminal justice systems, and applicable laws.
• Ability to read and interpret legal documents, maps, and reports.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in basic math and reasoning under stress.
• Ability to mediate, de-escalate, and resolve conflicts.
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to operate police vehicles and specialized equipment.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in high-pressure situations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position requires the ability to lift up to 75 pounds occasionally. Frequent activities include sitting, walking, running, handling, fine dexterity, vision, hearing, and talking. Occasional activities include standing, pushing/pulling, reaching, kneeling, crouching, crawling, twisting, climbing, and balancing. Must be able to physically restrain individuals and perform duties in various environments and weather conditions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Officers may be exposed to hazardous substances, infectious diseases, and physically combative individuals. The role requires shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. This is a safety-sensitive position.