Be the Difference

Sworn Officer Careers


If you’re ready to serve, SMPD is here to support your law enforcement career. Whether you’re a new recruit or a lateral, opportunity awaits.

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

Apply Now

Now Hiring 

Full-Time

Entry Level Police Officer

Salary Range: $147,685 to $202,285

The Santa Monica Police Department is hiring driven individuals ready to serve. No prior experience required; just integrity, heart, and the desire to make a difference. Begin your law enforcement career with full training and paid academy support.

Police officer in uniform smiling against a red background.

Full-Time

Lateral Police Officer

Salary Range: $147,685 to $202,285

The Santa Monica Police Department is seeking experienced officers ready to lead and serve. Transition into a department where your skills are respected, your career is supported, and your law enforcement experience makes an impact.

Headshot of an officer on a black background

Santa Monica California seal featuring palm trees
Santa Monica California seal
Police officer on a beach holding a radio, with a patrol vehicle and people in the background near the ocean.
Tactical soldier aiming rifle with red and blue lights in the background at night.
Police officer in uniform with a K9 dog on a sandy beach at sunset, pier and Ferris wheel in the background.
Police officer in uniform standing in front of a large government building with columns.
Two adults in uniforms pose outside; next to them, a vintage photo of two children sitting together indoors.

“Santa Monica PD has been the perfect place to advance my career from civilian Records Technician to sworn Police Officer. There are countless opportunities to grow and develop.”

Police officer on a beach holding a radio, with a patrol vehicle and people in the background near the ocean.

Officer Frausto

Police Officer

“In this job, no two days are the same. Working in a fluid environment demands trust, teamwork and the readiness to adapt at a moments notice.”

Tactical soldier aiming rifle with red and blue lights in the background at night.

Sergeant Hodgson

Patrol Sergeant

“Everyday, Norton reminds me why I love this job – loyalty, courage, and the bond of a best friend.”

Police officer in uniform with a K9 dog on a sandy beach at sunset, pier and Ferris wheel in the background.

Officer Garcia & Norton

K9 Officer

“Being an athlete wasn’t just about competition — it was about grit, discipline, and showing up for something bigger than yourself. That’s exactly what being a police officer is about, too.”

Police officer in uniform stands confidently in front of a large government building with columns.

Officer Thompson

Softball Player

“We were teammates before we were cops — brothers by blood, united by purpose.”  

Two adults in uniforms pose outside; next to them, a vintage photo of two children sitting together indoors.

Officers Joseph & Jacob Duncan

Brothers

Academy Life

Forge your Foundation

Recruits attend a POST-certified police academy and face physical, mental, and academic challenges to build discipline, confidence, and tactical skill. The training is demanding, but it prepares you to serve as a capable Santa Monica Police Officer.

Police officer instructing recruits standing in formation outdoors, highlighting training and discipline in law enforcement.

Your First Steps in the Field

Learn. Evolve. Succeed.

After the academy, new officers join Santa Monica’s Field Training Program, working side-by-side with experienced officers to respond to real calls, build confidence, and sharpen the skills needed to thrive in their law enforcement careers.

Police officers in tactical gear holding rifles, moving in formation near a building with a reserved parking sign.


Questions About Training? Let’s Talk.


We are here to guide you through every step of the process—just ask!

A skyline and sunset illustration
A skyline and sunset illustration smaller