Lateral Entry Program

In an effort to attract experienced police officers, we are offering a lateral entry program. This program provides selected candidates with a higher starting salary as outlined below. The determination regarding whether a candidate qualifies for lateral entry will be made during the Chief's Review portion of the Selection Process.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a certified Texas Peace Officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE);
• Have at least 4 years prior work experience with similar duties in a comparable law enforcement agency; and
• Must not have had a break in service as a Police Officer of more than 180 days prior to the applicant's examination date.

Guidelines

• The lateral entry program is for pay purposes only and actual work experience in another law enforcement agency will not be considered for promotional eligibility requirements.
• The Chief of Police shall determine eligibility for lateral entry of police applicants. Eligible applicants may be placed up to Step 19.3 of the pay schedule (PDF). Officers placed through this lateral entry program will progress through the remaining steps as he/she completes years of service
• Longevity pay will be calculated in the same manner as all Police Officers. No credit will be given to completed years of service in other law enforcement agencies.
• Entry-level police officers placed up to Step 19.3 of the pay schedule must also complete a new hire probationary period.
• The Chief of Police's determination of whether an applicant meets the criteria of the lateral entry program and placement in the pay structure shall be final and non-appealable to the Civil Service Commission, arbitrator or to any court.

If you have any questions, please email: SMPD-Recruiting@sanmarcostx.gov