*Police Officer

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

POLICE OFFICER - LATERAL OPPORTUNITY

Bring your experience - or your soon-to-be-earned badge - to the San Marcos Police Department!

The San Marcos Police Department is seeking qualified candidates for a Lateral Police Officer opportunity. This posting is also open to individuals currently enrolled in a certified police academy who are expected to graduate soon. Starting salary is based on qualifications and experience.

A $ 5,000 hiring bonus is available: $2,500 is paid upon hire, with the remaining $2,500 paid upon successful completion of the San Marcos Police Department's training program.

Under general supervision, Police Officers provide professional, responsive, and community-oriented police services to protect life and property, maintain public order, and uphold the rights of all individuals. This role supports the mission of public safety by preserving peace, preventing crime, and fostering a safe and engaged community through lawful enforcement, proactive engagement, and service delivery.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

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 & PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Age: Must be at least 20 years and 6 months of age at the time of the entrance examination and not more than 50 years of age at the time of hire.
• Must meet all TCOLE and Local Government Code Chapter 143 requirements.
• If not currently certified, must successfully complete a police academy and obtain TCOLE Basic Peace Officer Certification.
• 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.

COMPETENCIES AND ENVIRONMENT

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.

The City of San Marcos offers its employees a broad range of benefits to enhance their personal and occupational lives. We are committed to a total rewards strategy that provides employees with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and an environment that supports a healthy work/life balance.

View Our Benefits Guide.

BENEFITS
Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage

• United Healthcare
• Choice Plus PPO Plan
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Wellness Initiatives
• Virtual Doctor Visits 24/7
• Dental Plan
• Base Vision Plan
• Premium Vision Plan
• Laser Vision Correction discounts

Retirement

• Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS)
• Mission Square Retirement Corporation - optional 457-deferred compensation plan & Roth IRA

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS & COMPENSATION

• Assignment Pay
• Bilingual Pay
• Education Pay
• On-Call Pay
• Shift Differential
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• City-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
• Voluntary Life, AD&D, and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Medical Concierge Service
• Vacation
• Sick Leave
• Holidays
• Longevity pay
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Activity Center Membership
• Direct Deposit
• Home Buyer Incentive Application
• Home Buyer Incentive Policy
• Paid Parental Leave
• Bereavement Leave