Group of police officers standing behind yellow police tape in an alley, night scene with red and orange lights.

Essential Roles.
Real Impact.

Professional Staff Careers

Civilian professionals play a vital role at SMPD. Discover where your skills can support and serve our community.

Officer on a bicycle

Public Services Officer (PSO)

Support department security, front desk operations, and field response. PSOs also conduct periodic patrols and park checks to maintain safety and visibility across city properties.

Police officer smiling inside a small vehicle, Santa Monica Police Department patch visible, American flag sticker on door.

Traffic Services Officer (TSO)

Enforce parking regulations and assist with traffic flow. TSOs are on the move daily, helping to maintain order and mobility on city streets.

Forensic investigator photographing a motorcycle accident scene at night with yellow police tape in the background.

Forensics Unit

Forensic Specialists and Technicians process crime scenes, collect evidence, and support investigations through careful analysis and scientific expertise.

Police officer at a desk using a computer, wearing a Santa Monica police department uniform in an office setting.

Community Services Officer (CSO)

Assist with traffic control, reports, and scene security. CSOs play a vital non-sworn role in daily operations and often serve as a launching pad to sworn careers.

Group photo of Santa Monica Police Department officers and staff standing together in front of a department banner.

Community Engagement Team

Home to Public Information Coordinators and Crime Prevention Coordinators, this team manages public communication, events, safety education, and community engagement.

Dispatch

Dispatchers serve as the critical link between the community and emergency
responders, managing both emergency and non-emergency calls with precision. They
provide real-time information, guidance, and life-saving support to ensure First
Responders can effectively protect and assist the public.

Animal control officer joyfully holds a smiling dog in an outdoor fenced area.

Animal Shelter

Animal Control Officers and Care Attendants ensure humane treatment and public safety. SMPD operates a full-service, no-kill shelter dedicated to compassion and care.

Two uniformed officers standing in a hallway, one holding a door handle labeled "Secure Holding" with a visible corridor.

Custody Officer

Manage inmate care and facility safety in SMPD’s in-house jail. Custody Officers ensure legal compliance, safety, and professionalism in detention operations.

Person smiling while sitting at a desk in an office cubicle with a computer and desk fan.

Records Unit

From property clerks to records technicians, this team ensures precise recordkeeping , proper evidence handling, and responsive service for both officers and the public

Crossing guard holding a stop sign near a fence, standing on a city sidewalk during the day.

Crossing Guards

Crossing Guards ensure safe crossings for children and families near schools. This vital, public-facing role is ideal for those dedicated to community service and youth safety.

Two police officers in uniform talking and smiling inside a police department office next to a desk and computer.

Police Cadet

A part-time, paid development program for youth interested in law enforcement and supporting their community. Cadets support various units while gaining hands-on experience.

Person analyzing data on multiple computer screens in a dark office environment.

Crime Analysts

Responsible for identifying trends, sharing intelligence, and supporting predictive strategies, Crime Analysts guide field deployment and investigative priorities

Discover Professional Staff Roles

Professional staff are essential to every aspect of public safety. From records and forensics to outreach and animal care, civilian roles at SMPD offer meaningful careers that make an impact, enhance public service, and help advance our mission.

Curious about Professional Staff Careers? We are here to help!

Reach out to our team for more information about roles, hiring, or how to apply

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