Careers

Professional Service.
Trusted People.
Real Possibilities.


SMPD offers more than a badge, it offers a career built on service, trust, and opportunity. Discover the diverse roles that support public safety and innovation.

Earn $147k-$202k Annually as an Officer. Text JOIN SMPD to 310-928-9650

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Find the Right Fit

Sworn Officer Roles

Sworn officers at SMPD serve a diverse, vibrant coastal city and work across a range of specialized assignments. Whether you’re a new recruit or a seasoned lateral officer, you’ll find opportunities to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact.

  • Iconic coastal city patrol
  • K9, SWAT, Detectives, UAS, and more
  • Entry level and lateral positions
Mounted police patrolling beach area with amusement park and mountains in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
An officer operating a drone on a grassy lawn
Officer in uniform poses with police dog against a blue background with an American flag and a police emblem.
Three uniformed officers in tactical gear stand outdoors in front of amusement park rides and parked cars.
Police officer on a motorcycle, wearing a helmet and smiling, with residential houses and trees in the background.
Three police negotiators standing outdoors facing away, wearing jackets labeled "Police Negotiator" in a green park setting.

Professional Staff Roles


Behind every officer is a team of dedicated professionals who keep the department running. From Jailers and Forensic Techs to analysts and administrative roles, professional staff members support the mission of SMPD through innovation, collaboration, and service.

  • Forensics, CSOs, Jailers, and More
  • Flexible Career Development
  • Team-oriented Environment
Two public service officers standing by a patrol car at sunset with palm trees and scooters in the background.
Three Santa Monica police officers smiling in uniform with department logos in the background.
Coast guard patroller on a boat watches a rescue helicopter flying over the ocean on a sunny day with a rainbow.

A Santa Monica Police Department badge illustration with skyline
A Santa Monica Police Department badge illustration

Your Future has a Foundation Here

Grow with SMPD: From Recruitment to Retirement


No matter where you start, SMPD provides the tools to go further. Whether you’re aiming for promotion or looking to move laterally into a specialized unit, you’ll find support, mentorship, and room to grow.

  • Promotions based on merit and performance
  • Opportunities in command and specialty units
  • Internal mobility across divisions
Police officer and a man shaking hands in front of a wall with a bronze relief sculpture, both smiling and outdoors.
Two men smiling, one in a police uniform, standing in front of Santa Monica Police Department banners.

Comprehensive Benefits


A career at SMPD comes with more than purpose. It comes with security. We offer competitive compensation and a full suite of benefits designed to support your health, wellness, and future.

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • CALPERS retirement and Deferred Comp Plans
  • Paid Leave and Holidays 
Santa Monica City Hall with blooming water lilies in the foreground under a clear blue sky.

Sworn Hiring Process

How to Become a Police Officer

Our hiring process is transparent, structured, and designed to set you up for success. From application to academy, we are with you every step of the way. Lateral officers follow an expedited version of this path.

Apply Online

Submit your application via an online portal and begin your journey with SMPD.

National Testing Network (NTN) Written Examination

Complete the NTN exam or transfer a valid score. Online and Secure. 

Physical Fitness Qualifier (PFQ)

Timed push ups, situps, 1.5 mile run, and a 165 lb dummy drag

Oral Interview

Meet with department representatives to assess your fit and motivation.
(Lateral officers start here)

Background Investigation

A thorough review of your personal, professional, and criminal history.

Polygraph Examination

Evaluates honesty and integrity.

Interview with Chief of Police

Meet with the Chief of Police. If successful, the Chief will extend you a conditional job offer.

Psychological & Medical Examinations

Ensure you are mentally and physically fit to serve the community.

Start the Academy

Get paid while you attend the 22 week POST certified police academy.(Laterals go straight to Field Training)

Have Questions?  

Whether You’re a Sworn Officer or Professional Staff, You Make a Difference

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A skyline and sunset illustration smaller