SLTPD opens police officer positions: Get paid to attend police academy

With an officer shortage in South Lake Tahoe, the police department is seeking applications for the position of "Police Officer Untrained/Trainee."

The City of South Lake Tahoe is looking for officers to fill a void created with the departure of four trained officers to other jurisdictions. If hired, candidates will get paid to attend the police academy and start with an annual salary of $63,505.52.

During Wednesday's Conversation with the Mayor, South Lake Tahoe Police Chief Brian Uhler said the process to hire takes a few months due to background checks and other required tasks. Uhler is also asking City Council at their November 13 meeting for another three staff members, two undercover officers and one school resource officer.

On an average there are three officers and one sergeant on duty at all times and ideally Uhler said they'd like four officers. Currently there are 41 sworn-in staff.

The job opening advertisement: The City of South Lake Tahoe invites you to join a department that serves the citizens of one of the most beautiful cities in California. South Lake Tahoe Police Officers perform a wide variety of duties to promote public safety, peace, and security. As part of their essential functions, they patrol beats to prevent and detect crime; respond to calls for assistance; conduct criminal investigations; interact with the community to build cooperation and support; pursue and arrest suspects; enforce laws; work with superiors, peers, and others as a team; prepare for court and give testimony; and fulfill other duties as required. This is more than a job; it is an opportunity to build a career of which you can be proud. Individuals who possess a strong work ethic, persuasive communication skills, team orientation, and commitment to community are encouraged to apply.

The Police Department will send candidate(s) selected for hire to a California Basic POST Police Academy. Candidates selected for hire are required to successfully complete the California Basic POST Police Academy as a condition of continued employment. Upon Satisfactory completion of the Academy, the police trainee will be appointed to the position of Police Officer while on probation for 18 months.

Desired Qualifications:

Military experience
College education
Bilingual (English/Spanish)
Five or more years of experience working for a law enforcement entity (i.e.: county jail, probation, etc.)

Eligibility Requirements:

Citizenship: Applicants must be United States citizens.
Age: Applicants must be at least 20 years old when they test and at least 21 years of age by the time of appointment as a sworn peace officer. (Civil Service Rule 210.10)
Driver License: Applicants must possess and maintain a valid driver license to operate an automobile at the time of application and throughout the selection process. Possession of a valid California Driver License is required prior to the date of hire.
Education: Applicants must be a U.S. High School Graduate or have passed a G.E.D. or the California High School Proficiency Examination or have an AA or higher degree from an accredited college or university.

For more information on applying, click here.