Police Officer Lateral

We’re looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals who share our commitment to Community Policing—creating strong, lasting relationships, building trust, and working proactively with residents and businesses to address community needs. Our officers embody this approach by prioritizing safety, engaging collaboratively with the public, and delivering results that enhance the quality of life for those we serve.

Upon hire, lateral Police Officers will enter the department’s field training program. The duration of this program may be adjusted based on each officer’s prior experience and performance. We encourage interested applicants to explore more about our department on our website and review the full job description here.

As a full-time Police Officer Lateral, you will join our team to: 

• Respond to calls for service and provide compassionate, solution-oriented assistance
• Conduct investigations, interviews, report writing, and court testimony
• Engage proactively in community outreach and public education
• Apply de-escalation techniques and problem-solving with integrity
• Build strong partnerships through empathy, professionalism, and transparency

Eligible Police Officer Laterals will possess the following, at the time of application: 

• Law enforcement experience as a Police Officer within the last three years (in good standing, off-probation)
• California POST Basic Certificate
• 60 semester or 90 quarter college units
• Valid California driver's license 
• Minimum of 21 years of age
• Vision and hearing that meet POST standards

We're looking for individuals who are not only committed to public safety, but who also value connection, collaboration, and service. 

The ideal candidate:

• Leads with confidence, helping the community navigate challenges and find solutions
• Communicates clearly and effectively, verbally and in writing
• Builds trust through a friendly, approachable demeanor and a genuine desire to help others
• Stays focused and present, even while managing multiple assignments
• Balances confidence with compassion in every interaction

Submit your resume, application and California Basic POST Certificate online at GovermentJobs.com or to the Human Resources Department; City of Mountain View, 500 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA 94041, (650)903-6309. Please provide a valid email address on your application. This recruitment will be open on a continuous basis with a first review date of Friday, August 1, 2025 . Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply early.

*BONUS OPPORTUNITY
The $5,000 new hire bonus is reserved for new hires; current City of Mountain View employees are not eligible. Bonus is paid in two payments; $2,500 in your first paycheck and $2,500 following successful completion of the probationary period. 

Fine Print. 
Depending on the number of applications, the above process may be altered. Candidates with a disability who may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should advise the Human Resources Department upon submittal of application. Documentation of the need for accommodation must accompany the request. The City of Mountain View is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Candidates on the eligibility list must successfully pass a medical exam, psychological screening and an extensive background investigation conducted under POST guidelines, including a polygraph and a DOJ and FBI fingerprint check, prior to employment.  A conviction history will not necessarily disqualify an applicant from appointment; however, failure to disclose a conviction will result in disqualification or termination. Candidates with a disability which may require special assistance in any phase of the application or testing process should advise the Human Resources Division upon submittal of application. The City of Mountain View is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). The Mountain View Police Department is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for law enforcement agencies. 

NOTE: The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.

Salary : $143,096 - $173,768