Police Officer – Lateral & Cadet Tracks in Public Safety

City of San Marcos, Texas; San Marcos (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 97,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hiring incentive: $5,000 for TCOLE-off

Job summary

The City of San Marcos invites applicants to take a Civil Service Examination to establish an eligibility list for Police Officers. This list remains in effect for one year or until exhausted, with a December 28, 2026 deadline and a January 8, 2027 test date at the San Marcos Activity Center.

Starting salaries vary: Cadet $64,821; TCOLE Sworn Officer $73,734.83; Lateral entry up to $96,617.55. A $5,000 hiring incentive is available for certified TCOLE Officers from this list.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 20 years 6 months old at the time of the entrance examination.
• Meets TCOLE and Local Government code chapter 143 requirements.
• If not currently certified, must 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Law enforcement knowledge

Written communication

Verbal communication

Mathematical reasoning

De-escalation

Diversity awareness

Vehicle operation

Independent work

Teamwork

Education

High School diploma or GED

30 college credit hours

Military service / National Guard

Job description

The City of San Marcos invites applicants to take a Civil Service Examination to establish an eligibility list for Police Officers. This list remains in effect for one year or until exhausted, with a December 28, 2026 deadline and a January 8, 2027 test date at the San Marcos Activity Center.

Starting salaries vary: Cadet $64,821; TCOLE Sworn Officer $73,734.83; Lateral entry up to $96,617.55. A $5,000 hiring incentive is available for certified TCOLE Officers from this list.