Transit Police Officer - Lieutenant Operational Support

VIA Metro Transit; San Antonio (TX); On-site; USD 96,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

VIA Metro Transit in San Antonio, TX, is seeking a seasoned transit security leader to supervise officers, oversee parking programs, and ensure compliance with state and federal standards.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice or related field and at least five years of law enforcement experience, including supervisory duties. A CJIS background check is mandatory, with strict adherence to Texas law and VIA policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice or related field.
• At least five years of law enforcement experience, including two in a supervisory capacity.
• CJIS background check required and CJIS eligibility maintained.

Responsibilities

• Oversees and manages Transit Security Officers assigned to VIA properties.
• Administers parking enforcement and parking related programs across VIA properties.
• Supervises Transit Security Sergeants and evaluates performance for compliance with policies and objectives.
• Coordinates with local law enforcement and external partners regarding security and compliance.

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice or related field

Job description

95,790 - 114,947 USD per year

Posted 2 days ago

Description

Summary:

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF WORK:

Performs advanced administrative, supervisory, and coordination work in support of transit security operations, regulatory compliance, and departmental effectiveness. Responsible for implementing directives from the Chief of Police and System Security with an emphasis on administrative support, security program oversight, parking management, and compliance with applicable law enforcement standards.

Provides coordination between Transit Police, Transit Security Personnel, and VIA departments to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations across VIA properties. Provides leadership to Transit Security Sergeants and sworn personnel to ensure effective security and property protection. May assume command of sworn personnel during designated operations or critical incidents, as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Oversees and manages Transit Security Officers assigned to VIA properties, ensuring appropriate deployment of personnel.
• Administers and manages parking enforcement and parking related programs across VIA owned and controlled properties, including Park and Ride facilities.
• Supervises Transit Security Sergeants and evaluates performance to ensure compliance with departmental policies, procedures, and operational objectives.
• Works closely with VIA Fleet and Facilities to ensure police and security vehicle readiness and facility security.
• Ensures departmental compliance with all applicable Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) standards, including training, certification, and reporting requirements.
• Oversees evidence and property management functions ensuring proper handling, storage, documentation, audits, and disposition in accordance with legal and departmental requirements.
• Develops, reviews, and recommends policies and procedures related to transit security, parking management, evidence control, and operational best practices.
• Oversees security badges and assists with proxy access control for contractors and VIA employees.
• Serves as a liaison between Transit Police, Transit Security, and VIA departments to facilitate communication, coordination, and resolution of operational concerns.
• Coordinates with local law enforcement agencies, emergency services, and external partners regarding security, compliance, and joint operational efforts.
• Monitors and evaluates security systems, technologies, and deployment strategies to enhance safety of patrons, employees, and property.
• Utilizes computer-based systems for reporting, data analysis, fleet tracking, and operational oversight.
• Assists in the development, coordination, and delivery of training programs to ensure compliance with Local, State, and Federal requirements.
• Provides guidance, counseling, and discipline to assigned personnel in accordance with VIA policies.
• Researches, analyzes, and prepares reports, including statistical analyses, compliance documentation, and operational assessments.
• Participates in budget development and monitors expenditures related to security operations, contracts, and programs.
• Oversees scheduling, training, and deployment of transit security personnel and related services.
• Conducts administrative and internal investigations as assigned, including those involving policy compliance or internal misconduct.
• Represents VIA in meetings, presentations, and coordination efforts with internal stakeholders and external agencies.
• Responds to incidents and may direct operations involving sworn personnel when necessary, including emergencies or critical incidents.
• Uses sound judgement and law enforcement expertise to assist in resolving complex or sensitive situations.

This job description excludes marginal functions that are incidental to performing the job. Other duties may exist.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice or a related field and at least five (5) years of law enforcement experience, two (2) of which must be in a supervisory capacity. Additional related education or experience may be used in determining an equivalent combination.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

*Must pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility.

*Due to CJIS requirements related to system access, the following will result in being disqualified for this position: Felony Convictions, Felony Deferred Adjudication, Class A & B Misdemeanor Deferred Adjudication, Class B Misdemeanor Convictions, an Open Arrest for Any Criminal Offense (Felony or Misdemeanor), and Family Violence Convictions.

• Must have a valid and current Texas Peace Officer’s license and be eligible and qualified to be commissioned as a VIA Police Officer, as per the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE).
• Must have a valid Texas Driver’s License, a good driving record, and be qualified to operate a VIA police vehicle.
• Must provide approved handgun and able to show proficiency.
• Must have the ability to successfully complete joint law enforcement training programs and demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge, skills, and abilities provided in the training program(s).
• Must have a good knowledge of Texas Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and TCOLE rules and regulations.
• Must have effective communication skills and report writing skills.
• Must have a good knowledge of all VIA services and be able to provide information and assistance to the general public.
• Must demonstrate sound judgement, decision‑making ability, and the capacity to manage critical incidents.
• Must be proficient in the use of law enforcement systems, dispatch/communication systems, and standard office software.
• Must be able to deal tactfully and effectively with subordinates and the public.
• Must be able to travel off property in company vehicles.
• Must comply with dress and grooming codes.
• Must have mathematical skills to perform basic calculations.
• Must have the ability to respond to various situations and quickly analyze the facts to arrive at a just and clear‑cut decision.
• Must be able to maintain good work attendance.

Safety Accountability Statement:

• Employees must consider safety in all tasks performed, as well as demonstrate safe judgment and decisions that not only maintain their own safety; but that of fellow employees and customers.
• Demonstrate a professional commitment to assure compliance with all organizational policies, practices, and programs related to safety, health, and system security.
• Employees have a responsibility to identify and report hazards, as well as potentially unsafe conditions, to your immediate supervisor or Safety Department.
• Employees are responsible, a nd required , to stop a job/task to prevent an unsafe incident or act from occurring. This acknowledges the threat of potential injury, property damage and the opportunity for better judgment to be used.

Must comply with and support all applicable VIA EEO Policies and Procedures.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical ability required to be mobile, bend, stoop, stand, reach, and have sufficient mobility and strength to occasionally purse, subdue, and restrain offenders.

WORK ENVIRONMENTS:

Inside and outside work with irregular hours. Work hours could involve early morning, evening, late, or overnight hours, and weekends, split shifts and holidays.

Work involves being around moving vehicles and exposure to dust, fumes, gases, noises, and extremes in temperature/humidity.

VIA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, providing equal opportunity to all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, or disability.