Police Officer/Lateral Transfer

Join one of the highest-paid police departments in California. At the Santa Monica Police Department, competitive compensation is just the beginning. You will serve in a world‑class community that values purpose, community impact, and personal growth with a supportive team culture and many career development pathways. Salary Step 1 – $126,672 Step 2 – $132,924 Step 3 – $140,748 Step 4 – $148,560 Step 5 – $156,384 Additional Compensation and Benefits (not all listed) 100 % city‑paid medical premiums Ongoing overtime, call‑back pay, film assignments, wellness hour, military leave, paid parental leave, bereavement leave, FMLA, personal leave cash‑out, employee parking Longevity pay ranging from 2.7 % to 14 % of base salary based on years of service Educational incentive pay of 6 % (Intermediate) or 12.8 % (Advanced) of base salary Bilingual pay: $1,200 for other languages, $1,800 for Spanish Uniform allowance up to $2,000 annually Cash‑in‑lieu of ten hours per holiday, 35 hours paid quarterly (140 hours annually) Annual sick leave cash‑out up to 12 days and vacation cash‑out up to 120 hours as service years increase Responsibilities Patrol an assigned area using marked and unmarked vehicles, bicycles, motorcycles, horses, and all‑terrain beach vehicles, as well as on foot Maintain law and order, answer inquiries, and provide public assistance Respond to police service calls, traffic collisions, and other emergencies Investigate and prepare reports on offenses, collisions, and other incidents Make arrests, transport arrestees, issue citations, and serve warrants and subpoenas Direct traffic and attend court appearances as needed Observe and report hazards, abandoned or damaged vehicles or property, and malfunctions of city equipment Practice and maintain proficiency with firearms and other police equipment Attend training courses required by P.O.S.T. and the Chief of Police Analyze recurring patrol and specialized problems in collaboration with supervisors and peers, and help develop long‑term solutions Perform additional duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of law‑enforcement codes, crime‑prevention methods, evidence rules, arrest laws, investigation techniques, traffic and crowd control, and municipal equipment Strong customer‑service skills and grammar composition Ability to follow written and oral instructions and safety rules Decision‑making under pressure, including life‑threatening situations Effective verbal and written communication with the public and coworkers Sensitivity to community quality‑of‑life issues for residents, guests, and visitors Maintain a qualifying shooting‑range score as specified by the department Interact with culturally diverse populations Assess situations and determine proper courses of action Minimum Requirements Education: High‑school graduation or equivalent and completion of a California P.O.S.T. approved police academy Experience: One year of full‑time, paid service as a sworn peace officer with an organized local government agency, and current employment as a sworn peace officer in California Licenses and Certificates: Valid Class C driver license and regular Basic California P.O.S.T. Certificate Other Requirements: U.S. citizen or permanent‑resident alien eligible to apply for citizenship (must obtain citizenship within three years) Non‑user of tobacco products at hire Lateral transfers must pass an extensive background investigation and not have a misdemeanor involving domestic violence or a felony Maintain California residency within a 95‑mile radius of the department office post‑September 23, 2021 How to Apply Applicants must submit a clear, concise completed online City application by the specified deadline. Resumes, CVs, and cover letters are not reviewed. Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in an oral interview and a background investigation. Successful candidates will also complete a medical examination, which includes a treadmill stress test and drug screen. Diversity & Inclusion Statement The City of Santa Monica is an inclusive, culturally enriched community. We strive to attract and retain a highly talented workforce and celebrate the diversity of our employees. We are an equal‑opportunity employer and openly embrace diversity across race, religion, culture, and other protected statuses. Requests for Accommodations Special assistance with the application and examination process is available upon request for persons with disabilities. Contact Human Resources at (310) 458‑8246 for hearing‑impaired individuals. Working Conditions Work is performed both inside and outside in seasonal climates. Conditions commonly include slippery or oily surfaces, dust, dirt, and odors. Noise from traffic, police radio, and engine operation is frequent. The position requires availability for nights, weekends, holidays, on‑call, and overtime. Physical demands include arm and leg movements, driving, standing, sitting for long periods, bending, stooping, lifting, running, squatting, and climbing. Additional information is available at the agency website. #J-18808-Ljbffr City of Santa Monica