Lateral Police Officer - San Francisco Police Department

About the job

Join a world-class police department serving one of the country's most dynamic cities. San Francisco Police Officers promote safety with respect across diverse neighborhoods and settings—from foot patrols and squad cars to planned events and community programs.

Responsibilities

• Patrol districts; respond to calls and render aid.
• Investigate crimes; interview victims/witnesses/suspects; write clear reports.
• Enforce traffic laws; manage incidents and large events.
• Make arrests; testify in court; coordinate across units.
• Build relationships with residents and local businesses through community policing.

Requirements

1. Valid CA POST
   (Basic/Intermediate/Advanced) or Basic Course Waiver (BCW) for out-of-state.

2. Education
   U.S. high school diploma/GED/CHSPE or AA+ from a U.S.-accredited college.

3. Age
   At least 21 at appointment.

4. Drivers License
   Valid at application; CA DL by hire

5. Background
   No felony; no domestic-violence conviction; no firearm-prohibiting misdemeanor.

6. Work authorization
   U.S. citizenship not required—must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Compensation Benefit

• Exceptional Compensation
  $122,694–$192,072/year + $5,000 signing bonus (range includes retention pay).

• Streamlined selection
  Oral Interview (100%) for laterals; remaining steps include backgrounds and clearances

• Premiums & incentives
  6.25% night shift differential, specialty pays (e.g., Bomb Squad, K9, SWAT), bilingual & education pay, uniform/equipment provided, and overtime opportunities

• Time off & benefits
  Vacation 10/15/20 days by service years, 4 floating holidays, 13 sick days, and medical/dental/vision for officers and dependents. Pension: 3% of final compensation per year of service (up to 90% at 58)

Notes for candidates

• Typical police schedules are 40 hours/week across shifts; overtime may be required
• Pay differentials, specialty pays, and time-off policies are set by City/Union agreements and SFPD policy; see the official SFPD recruiting site for current details.

Government Administration · 10,000+ employees

The San Francisco Police Department serves one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse cities. Our mission is to protect life, safeguard property, prevent crime, and build trust through fair, respectful, and transparent policing.

SFPD officers work in close partnership with residents, community organizations, and local businesses to solve problems and keep neighborhoods safe. The department emphasizes de-escalation, crisis intervention, and community engagement, and provides paid academy training, continuous professional development, and clear career paths across patrol, investigations, traffic, airport, marine, and other specialized units.

We are committed to integrity, accountability, and service—reflecting the city we serve and strengthening public safety through empathy, professionalism, and innovation.