Step into leadership
Early lateral hires will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact on the future of the department. As we continue to grow, you'll play a key role in shaping field training, operational standards, and daily expectations. You won't wait for years in a promotional bottleneck. For those ready to lead, this is a unique opportunity to step into impactful leadership roles and help build a department from the ground up.
Lateral Police officer
earn up to $142,521 per year
Lateral Police Officers bring prior law enforcement experience to enforce applicable laws and ordinances and protect life and property across the Metro transit system. Officers operate with a high level of independence, respond to emergencies, conduct investigations, and engage with the public while supporting Metro’s mission through professionalism, collaboration, and accountability.
This is a sworn, armed position with immediate opportunities for specialized assignments and leadership roles.
Must be 21 years of age or older at time of appointment
High school diploma, GED, or California High School Proficiency Examination (POST compliant)
Possession of a California POST Basic Certificate and successful completion of the probationary employment period with a law enforcement agency in the State of California.
Valid California Class C Driver License with a satisfactory driving record
Must meet all California POST requirements
Ability to remain firearm qualified
Must pass a background investigation, psychological evaluation, and medical examination
Subject to FTA-mandated drug and alcohol testing, including random testing
benefits
As a full-time sworn police officer with Metro DPS, you’ll receive a comprehensive and flexible benefits package designed to support you and your family. Through the Public Transportation Services Corporation, you can customize your coverage to fit your needs, whether that means enhancing your benefits, scaling back what you don’t need, or even waiving certain options for added credit. It’s a benefits program built around choice, value, and the people who keep Metro moving safely every day.
Retirement & Pension
PTSC Retirement Plan (Non-Contract Employees’ Retirement Income Plan)
Reciprocity with CalPERS (~700 CA public agencies)
Contributions (FY 2026):
Employer: 13.99%
Employee: 13.75% (portable)
Vesting: 5 years
Minimum Retirement Age: 52
Formula: 2.7% at 57
Medical Insurance
4 Medical Plan Options:
Blue Cross PPO
Blue Cross HMO
Kaiser HMO
Opt out of medical coverage and receive cash in lieu
Includes Vision (VSP or Kaiser Vision)
Dental Insurance
Delta Dental PPO
Delta Dental DHMO
Dental Health Service DHMO
Opt out of dental coverage and receive cash in lieu
Time Off With Pay (TOWP)
Accrued biweekly, can cash out at 100% when leaving.
In addition to the TOWP benefit, employees also receive 12 paid holidays per year.
Tuition Reimbursement
After probation:
Undergraduate: up to $250 per unit
Graduate: up to $375 per unit
Life Insurance
Metro pays: 1x annual salary
Option to purchase up to 4x salary
Flexible Spending Accounts (Pre-Tax)
Healthcare FSA: up to $3,400
Dependent Care FSA: up to $7,500
401(k) & 457 Plans (Non-Matching)
Up to $24,500 each plan
Age 50+: $32,500 each plan
Roth options available
Transportation Benefits
Up to $260/month transit subsidy
$20/month bike incentive
Free rides on Metro buses & trains (employee + eligible dependents)
On-Site Perks at Metro headquarters
Credit Union
Fitness Center
- Day Care
Cafeteria
hiring steps
Our hiring process is clear, supportive, and designed to prepare you for success as a Police Officer.
1. Application and Screening
After receiving your application submittal via NeoGov, applications will be screened for minimum qualifications. If you are successful, you will be invited to participate in the next step. Applicants who are not selected to move forward will be notified.
2. Oral Interview
A panel of Metro personnel will assess the candidate’s communication, decision-making, and understanding of law enforcement. Be prepared to answer questions regarding your background, motivations, and interest in Metro’s Department of Public Safety (DPS).
3. Livescan – fingerprinting
You will be required to undergo fingerprinting, which includes state and federal criminal history checks as well as a review of the Child Abuse Central Index.
4. Background Investigation
A completed Personal History Questionnaire must be submitted prior to the initiation of a background check. The background check follows the California Commission on Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) requirements. It includes a full review of criminal, driving, credit, military, and work history, plus reference checks to assess your suitability for a career in law enforcement.
Honesty is the best policy. At Metro DPS, we value honesty and integrity above all else. It is natural to have experiences that you may view as challenging or unfavorable; however, attempting to omit or misrepresent information can have serious consequences. We strongly advise taking the time to thoroughly review your background and experiences before proceeding.
5. Psychological Evaluation
This POST mandated evaluation confirms you are psychologically fit for duty. Exams are conducted by licensed professionals and assesses your readiness to perform the essential functions of a police officer.
6. Medical Exam
The medical examination is conducted in accordance with POST standards to determine a candidate’s ability to perform the essential job functions of a police officer.
7. Final Interview
Candidates who advance to the final stage of pre-employment will be invited for a final interview with the Chief of Police (or designee).
8. Post hiring: Field Training Program
For both academy graduates and lateral hires, Field Training will provide officers training on department-specific procedures, patrol operations, and policies. All officers must pass the evaluation phases of the Field Training Program.