Police Officer-Lateral

Salary : $101,495.16 - $123,368.00 Annually
Location : Police Department 215 W. Elm St. Lodi, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 6210.01.2026
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 01/26/2026


Job Description

The City of Lodi Police Department is currently recruiting for Lateral Police Officer. Qualified applicants must be currently employed as a Sworn Police Officer with another agency.
The Lodi Police Department is a diverse organization located in the heart of the Central Valley. We proudly serve a supportive community of 67,000 residents. We are committed to the 30x30 initiative, which is a pledge to increase women recruited by 30% by 2030. Women and those with diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

We have a wide range of collateral duties that include SWAT, Mobile Field Force, UAV, Field Evidence Technician, Motors, K9, and School Resource Officer.
***$10,000 HIRING BONUS***

$3,000 at completion of Field Training Program (6-8 weeks)

$3,000 at completion of probationary period

$4,000 at completion of one additional year of employment


with satisfactory performance review
Click for more information about the Lodi Police Department.
All applications and supplemental questions must be completed fully and submitted on an official City of Lodi application form. (Do not state "See Resume" on your application or supplemental questionnaire)
Job descriptions are intended to present a broad and general range of duties which includes, purpose, responsibilities, and scope of work. Job descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION

Under general supervision, performs a wide variety of peace officer duties involving community-based policing practices in the protection of life and property, enforcement of laws and ordinances, criminal investigation, crime prevention and suppression, case preparation and testimony, and providing information to the public; performs a variety of technical and administrative tasks in support of the Department; and performs related work as required.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direct supervision from higher level supervisory and management staff.

Examples of Duties
Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:
Patrols an assigned area in police vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, or on foot; answers calls for the protection of life and private property, and the enforcement of City, County and State laws; diffuses potential volatile situations, and determines appropriate course of action when faced with potentially violent situations.
Identify suspects and arrest/book appropriate individuals into custody, and completes appropriate written reports; serves warrants and subpoenas; conducts preliminary and follow-up investigations of prowlers, burglaries, thefts, robberies, accidents, deaths and other disturbances; collects and preserves evidence for court; determines what evidence should be collected;
Stops drivers who are operating vehicles in violation of laws; warns drivers against unlawful practices, issues citations and makes arrests as the situation warrants; conducts investigations of serious injury and fatality traffic accidents; directs traffic, including regulation of vehicle flow at emergency or congested situations;
Collects, processes, photographs and presents evidence using scientific techniques including fingerprints, fibers, blood and related physical evidence;

Conducts covert, undercover investigations as assigned; develops and maintains contacts with potential informants; contacts and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and the investigation of offenses; maintains contact with citizens regarding potential law enforcement problems and preserves good relationships with the general public;
Conducts staff recruitment background investigations;
Takes an active role in public education relative to crime prevention duties as required; may participate in public education programs and make presentations regarding traffic safety and a variety of crime prevention topics; may serve as department representative to other public agencies, tasks forces, or committees.
Practices principles of community oriented policing; actively engages the community to work together to solve problems of crime, disorder and safety issues and to improve the quality of life for everyone in the community;
Perform other duties related to the operation of the department and the City including additional duties that enable the department and City to meet the diverse needs of its community.

Typical Qualifications
Knowledge of:

Modern police methods and procedures including patrol, crime prevention, traffic control, investigation and identification techniques;
Proper operation of a variety of specialized police equipment and vehicles; offense and defensive weapons nomenclature and theory; appropriate instantaneous responses to life-threatening and otherwise volatile law enforcement situations
Federal, state and local laws and regulations regarding civil, criminal, and traffic violations and the conduct of law enforcement operations including arrest, search, seizure, incarceration, interrogation, investigation, and the use of deadly force;
City streets, buildings and geography.
Interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy.
Community Oriented Policing and problem solving.
Ability to:

Interpret and enforce laws, ordinances, and regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality; analyze situations quickly and objectively, and react quickly and calmly in emergency situations; safe use and appropriate use of firearms and other weapons;
Foster and develop collaborative partnerships with community members and organizations to pro-actively solve problems;
Learn the operation of standard equipment and facilities required in the performance of assigned tasks
Maintain department physical fitness standards for the purpose of pursuing, subduing, and arresting suspect, and defending against physical assault;
Prepare accurate and grammatically correct written reports; learn standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system; understand and carry out oral and written directions; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Work in a team based environment to achieve common goals; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education & Experience

Any combination of experience and education that would likely produce the qualifying knowledge and ability. A typical combination is:
Experience

Currently employed as a Sworn Police Officer.
Education

High school graduation or equivalent (General Educational Development certificate is acceptable); meet minimum peace officer requirements as established by P.O.S.T, and a graduate of a California Basic P.O.S.T. police academy.
Driver's License

Possession of a valid Driver's License issued from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
Age

Must be at least 20 years of age at time of examination and 21 years at the date of appointment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; or smell.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts; in high, precarious places; and with explosives and is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, extreme heat, and vibration. The employee may have exposure to blood borne pathogens, possible fights and confrontations, and contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

*FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Supplemental Information
Interested applicants must submit an online application at No paper applications will be accepted. For technical difficulties with your online application, please call the Neogov helpline at View phone number on click.appcast.io.
Telephone: View phone number on click.appcast.io. Persons with hearing impairment, please call the California Relay Service 7-1-1.
Evaluation of Qualifications: Application materials and resumes will be screened to determine if applicants are considered to be among the most qualified as outlined on the job announcement. Only applicants who are among the most qualified will be invited to participate in the testing process. Resumes may not be substituted for a completed application.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER - The City of Lodi is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a policy of fair employment practices regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex or sexual orientation, marital status, age, mental or physical disability or perceived disability, medical condition, pregnancy, political affiliation or belief, or other unlawful discrimination.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITY ACT - In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the City of Lodi provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations must contact the Human Resources Division upon application submittal to confirm the request.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION - City of Lodi is authorized and required by the state of California to access Local, State, and/or Federal criminal history as part of the testing process. This process can be completed by initial fingerprinting and/or a full Background investigation pursuant to Penal Code §11105(b)(10), §11105.3, §13300(b)(10); Education Code §10911.5; Public Resources Code §5164) and in compliance with the City of Lodi's Fingerprinting Policy and Procedure. As a future employee or volunteer, you are required to be fingerprinted and processed through the Department of Justice and cleared before you can start. All information obtained will be kept in strict confidentiality.
HIRING PROCEDURE - Applicants must possess the minimum qualifications by the final filing date. Eligible lists are established upon successful completion of the selection process. The candidates must be successful in each part of the testing. To fill each vacancy the hiring department will request names to be certified from the eligible list and will make a selection from this certification list.
CONDITIONAL JOB OFFERS - Conditional job offers are subject to successful completion of a medical drug screen and/or physical. Candidates should not quit or give notice to their current employer until final notification has been awarded by the Human Resources Division.
MEDICAL-DRUG SCREENING - All positions may be subject to a physical or drug screen issued by a qualified medical physician assigned by the Human Resources Division. Under the requirements of the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, the City of Lodi has been designated as a drug-free workplace.
APPOINTMENT - At the time of appointment all candidates will be required to execute an oath of allegiance and complete Form I-9 - Employment Eligibility Verification in compliance with the Immigration and Naturalization Act. United States citizenship is not required. All new appointees are required to successfully complete a probationary period of twelve months.
EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
SALARY - The starting salary is the first rate shown on the job announcement. Advancement to the higher steps of the salary range is based upon merit in accordance with the Salary Ordinance and Rules for Personnel Administration. Eligibility for the first merit increase is effective after 12 months and for additional merit increases after one year intervals until the employee has reached the maximum step.
HOLIDAY, VACATION, SICK, AND ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE - Holiday - An average of 13 paid holidays per year. Vacation - 2 weeks paid vacation annually, increasing with length of service depending upon the appropriate labor agreement. Sick Leave - 10 days per year depending upon the appropriate labor agreement. Administrative Leave - Management/Mid-Management positions receive 80 hours per fiscal year, and specified professional/technical positions receive 40 hours per fiscal year (Pro-Rated).
HEALTH INSURANCE - Medical, Dental and Vision plans are available for employee and dependents. A portion of the premiums may be the employee's responsibility.
LIFE INSURANCE AND LONG TERM DISABILITY - The City pays the full premium for employee and dependent life insurance, and offers a long-term disability plan that provides up to approximately 2/3 of an employee's salary.
RETIREMENT AND DEFERRED COMPENSATION - The City of Lodi is a member of the Public Employees' Retirement System (P.E.R.S.). Lodi is not a member of the Social Security System except for the required medical contribution. Employees may participate in a 457 Deferred Compensation program.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT - Employees may participate in a Section 125 Flexible Spending Account.
IMPORTANT NOTE: This bulletin does not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provisions or job duties contained in this bulletin may include modifications pending labor agreements and/or council approval.
NOTE: Employee Benefits stated herein are subject to change through the collective bargaining process and are not guaranteed.

VACATION:

0-5 years - 3.08 hours per pay period
6-11 years - 4.62 hours per pay period
12-14 years - 5.24 hours per pay period
15-20 years - 6.16 hours per pay period
2l years - 6.47 hours per pay period
22years - 6.78 hours per pay period
23 year - 7.09 hours per pay period
24 year - 7.40 hours per pay period
25 years - 7.71 hours per pay period

Maximum carryover is 2 times accrual rate per year. No cash out allowed.

SICK LEAVE:
144 hours/year

HOLIDAYS:
145 hours/year

HEALTH BENEFITS:
All employees are offered medical insurance for themselves and dependent(s) through CalPERS Medical Plans. Effective January 1, 2026, City shall pay a monthly maximum towards medical premiums as follows:

$1,051.97 per month for Employee Only
$2,103.95 per month for Employee +1
$2,735.14 per month for Family

If employee selects a higher cost plan, employee will pay the difference as a payroll deduction.

If an employee elects not to be covered by medical insurance through the City of Lodi, an additional:
$692.81 per month for family
$532.92 per month for employee + 1 dependent
$305.22 per month for single
will be added to either the employee's deferred compensation account or as taxable income on paycheck. In order to qualify for this provision, proof of group insurance must be provided to the City.

The City shall pay the full cost for the employee and their dependents dental premium for the term of this agreement. The City agrees to provide a vision care plan, equivalent to the VSP Plan B, with a $25.00 deductible for the employee and dependents: the entire premium to be paid by City. The City shall pay the full cost for the employee and their dependents chiropractic premium for the term of this agreement.


DEFERRED COMPENSATION:
A deferred compensation plan is available at the employee's option. The City matches up to 3% of the employee's base salary, subject to Federal Tax laws.

EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE PAY:
Bachelor's Degree: $200.00 per month; Basic POST Certificate $50.00; Intermediate POST Certificate 150.00; Advanced POST Certificate $300.00 per month.

The POST Incentives set forth in this clause are paid at the highest-level certificate held (i.e. they are not stackable).

EDUCATION ALLOWANCE:
Tuition Reimbursement up to $3000 per fiscal year as per City policy.

RETIREMENT:
New employees into the CalPERS retirement system are enrolled in the 2.7%@57, three-year average retirement formula. Employees hired after January 1, 2013, with less than a six-month break in CalPERS (or reciprocal agencies) are enrolled in the 3%@55, three-year average retirement formula. At present, employees will contribute towards the employee portion of their CalPERS retirement costs. If additional information is needed regarding CalPERS retirement plans/costs, please contact Human Resources.

Employees shall pay the employee portion of Retirement Benefits as follows:
Effective the pay period in which December 31, 2013 falls - 9%
01


I understand that in order for my application to receive every consideration in the selection process, I must complete all of the application (education, experience, etc.) along with the following Supplemental Questions and provide concise but detailed answers. I understand these responses must match the information I provide in the Work Experience and Education sections of my application. When answering narrative descriptions of my experience, I understand that I must include the name of the employer, dates of employment, and the name and phone number of my supervisor.

Do not refer to a resume or other documentation in lieu of completing the employment history section or responding to the supplemental questions; they will not be reviewed or considered. I certify that all the information provided on my application and this Supplemental Questionnaire is true to the best of my knowledge.

• I have read and understand the above instructions

02


This position requires that you possess and maintain a valid California Driver's License. Do you understand and meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

03


This position requires that you have experience as a law enforcement officer in California and possess a valid California Basic P.O.S.T. certificate.Do you understand and meet this requirement?

• Yes
• No

04


I have included a copy of my P.O.S.T. Basic Law Enforcement certificate. I understand that applications missing this documentation will be disqualified from the recruitment process. Do you understand and agree to this requirement?

• Yes
• No

05


Are you currently employed as a Sworn Police Officer?

• Yes
• No

06


Please list the name of the agency you currently work for, as a Sworn Police Officer, and how long you have been employed there.
Required Question