Answer the Call

Explore The Possibilities.
Unlock Your Potential.
Discover Your Purpose.

Some careers are just jobs. Being a Police Officer is a Journey. If you ever wondered if your work could matter, it can. Right here at SMPD.

Earn $141k-$194k Annually as an Officer. Text JOIN SMPD to 310-928-9650

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Serving Santa Monica

Founded in 1875, Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal city known for its scenic beauty and strong sense of community. With iconic landmarks like the Santa Monica Pier, and world-renowned beaches, the city blends history, culture, and progress. Home to residents, tourists, and businesses alike, it’s a dynamic place to live, serve and protect

  • Full-service police department with 232 sworn officers and 240 professional staff
  • Protecting 8.3 square miles of dynamic, high-profile city space
  • 130,000 calls for service annually, with a proactive and community-centered approach
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Police officer smiling at Santa Monica Pier with Route 66 sign and people walking in the background.
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Life at SMPD

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The Force, The Family, The Friendship

At the Santa Monica Police Department, you are never alone. From day one, you become part of a tight-knit team that supports one another through every challenge. We foster a culture of respect, trust, and unity.  We believe the strongest teams build the safest communities.

  • Academy classes build lasting bonds from day one
  • Shift camaraderie fosters strong team trust
  • Peer support and mentorship at every rank
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Learn about training, advancement, and leadership opportunities.

Your journey of development does not stop at the Academy. We invest in your future. SMPD offers top-tier training, specialized assignments, and leadership development programs to help you grow and thrive in your career. There are many paths to your success.

  • Leadership development starts at the recruit level
  • Cross-training encouraged across divisions
  • Promotions and assignments based on merit and performance
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Discover how SMPD supports mental, physical, and personal health.

Your health and happiness matter. SMPD promotes a culture of well-being with a robust resilience program, mental health resources, peer support team, and flexible scheduling for certain units.  SMPD supports you physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

  • Flexible 3/12.5 and 4/10 shifts, promoting work/life balance
  • Paid on duty wellness time
  • Access to gym, martial arts room, wellness programs
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Competitive Compensation, Exceptional Support 


We take care of those who serve. SMPD offers competitive salaries, health coverage, retirement plans, and incentives for special units and educational advancement. 

  • Sworn Officers earn between $141k – $194k, with incentives
  • Educational incentive pay for 2 and 4 year degrees, or Intermediate/Advanced POST certificates
  • CALPERS Retirement, PEPRA 2.7% @ 57  for entry level, and 3% @ 50 reciprocity for laterals

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Police officer holding the American flag in a formal ceremony with colleagues standing nearby in uniform.
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“As a lateral from a large agency, I can say that Santa Monica PD has a family atmosphere that was missing in my former department. Everyone here looks out for each other.”

Police officer on motorcycle at sunset with amusement park in the background.

Officer Han

Motorcycle Officer

“The pride I feel wearing this badge comes from knowing that our family extends beyond City borders and reaches across the globe.”

Police officer holding the American flag in a formal ceremony with colleagues standing nearby in uniform.

Officer Hassan

K9 Officer

“Every day at SMPD reminds me why I chose this career — to help, to protect, and to leave a positive impact on a community I care about.“

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Officer Reese

Homeless Liaison Program Officer

“When I left the classroom, I wasn’t walking away from my students — I was walking toward a broader way to serve them. I still think about the kids I taught. I became a police officer to help protect the world they’re growing up in.”

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Officer Melendez

Former Teacher

“We were always protecting each other as kids. Now we wear the same badge and protect a whole community — together.”

Two police officers smiling outdoors; a separate image of two children, one holding the other, dressed in white outfits.

Officers Elvia & Jessica Medina

Sisters

“Woof… woof…”

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K9 Mylo

“I love how SMPD honors tradition and still maintains a focus on innovation.”

Officer mounted on a horse

Officer Barajas and Laredo

Mounted Officer


Opportunity awaits 

Explore Careers at SMPD Today

Whether you are looking to become an entry-level officer, make a lateral move, or join our professional staff, we have a position for you


From new recruits to seasoned professionals, SMPD offers diverse career paths, a supportive team, and the chance to serve a unique and vibrant community. 

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Not sure if you’re 
ready to apply?


We’ve got you covered. Learn what to expect, how to prepare, and what it takes to join SMPD—step by step

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Ready for Answers?

Get in Touch. 
Recruiters Are Just a Click Away.  


Don’t go it alone—our team is here to help you prep, plan, and apply with confidence. Reach out and let’s take the next step together to Join Santa Monica PD.

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