Police Officer

Essential Job Functions

1. Pro-active enforcement of all applicable criminal and traffic laws, including the issuance of citations.
2. Respond to calls for service from citizens.
3. Maintain high-visibility patrols.
4. Educate public and citizen contacts.
5. Prepare and complete all necessary reports and supplements.
6. Attend state mandated and supplemental training each year.
7. Testify in court concerning collection of evidence.
8. Preserve and enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Garland, Texas, by following the City's guiding principles.
9. Perform related duties as assigned.

Minimum Education & Work Experience

In accordance with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) minimum requirements:

Must be United States of America citizen at the time of application
At least age 18 and will have not reached the age of 45 prior to entering a beginning position in the police department
Must have either a High School Diploma or GED AND one of the following:
a. Associate degree or completion of 60 semester hours of college credit from an accredited college or university, with a minimum 2.0 GPA
b. Received an honorable discharge from the armed forces of the United States after at least two years of active duty service
c. Minimum of two years of service as a commissioned, full-time, paid peace officer (reserve peace officer status shall not be considered)
d. At least 21 years of age and have at least two years of continuous work experience for a local, state or federal government employer, or at least two years of experience as an emergency first-responder


** Education, prior police or military experience requirements must be met prior to academy start date.

Preferred Knowledge - Abilities & Skills

1. Communicate in the English language
2. Must be able to pass all steps in the Garland Police Department hiring process:

• Written Civil Service exam
• Physical agility test
• Detailed personal history statement
• Thorough background investigation
• Polygraph examination
• Oral interview board
• Psychological and medical examinations
• Drug screen
• Administrative review by the Chief of Police

Licenses & Certifications

Must possess a Texas Class "C" drivers license
Must be able to meet all minimum requirements under the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) for enrollment in a law enforcement training program