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Expect scenario questions on use of discretion, campus incidents, and working with non-police partners. Prepare examples of lateral experience: investigations handoffs, crisis response, and professional presence in a diverse community. Be ready to discuss why university policing fits your career next step.
Strong fit if you already hold P.O.S.T. certification, have lateral sworn experience, and prefer campus-based policing at California State University San Marcos over purely municipal street patrol. Less fit if you need remote work (this role is on-site) or are not already certified for lateral entry.
As a lateral Police Officer at California State University San Marcos University Police Department, your day centers on campus public safety: patrols of buildings and grounds, response to calls for service, incident reports, and coordination with campus partners. P.O.S.T. certification supports sworn duties such as enforcement, investigations support, and community-oriented contact with students, faculty, and visitors across shifts.
Prioritize current P.O.S.T. standing for a lateral hire, clear report writing, de-escalation and community engagement, campus-policy awareness, and reliable shift readiness. No certification cost figures are available in the provided data set.
The title targets Police Officer (Lateral/P.O.S.T. Certified) with the University Police Department, so current certification and prior sworn experience are central expectations.
No. The listing is treated as on-site campus work (remote flag is 0), consistent with university police duties.
The job location is listed as San Marcos, San Diego County, with the employer named California State University San Marcos University Police Department.
Public-domain labor data — prepare examples for 2–3 of these.
Website: californiastateuniversitysanmarcos.com
Public cache only — not an employee review.
California State University San Marcos seeks an experienced, P.O.S.T. certified Police Officer to join our University Police Department in San Marcos, San Diego County. This is a full-time law enforcement position focused on keeping our campus community safe through proactive patrol, emergency response, and community engagement. About the Role The University Police Department is responsible for the safety and security of our students, faculty, staff, visitors, and facilities. As a Police Officer, you'll provide essential law enforcement services across campus while maintaining the professional standards and community-focused approach that define our organization. What You'll Do Conduct regular patrols by vehicle and on foot to monitor campus grounds, identify hazards, and respond to incidents Prevent and investigate crimes including theft, vandalism, trespassing, and other violations occurring on university property Enforce California state laws, local ordinances, and campus policies with professionalism and discretion Make arrests and conduct apprehensions when warranted, following all legal protocols and documentation requirements Enforce parking and traffic regulations throughout campus Respond to emergency calls including medical situations, fires, accidents, and threats to public safety Provide assistance and information to students, visitors, and the public Document incidents and maintain detailed reports for administrative and legal purposes Collaborate with local law enforcement and community partners on safety initiatives What We're Looking For Valid California POST Certification (lateral hire requirement) Current valid driver's license with clean driving record Ability to work flexible schedules including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed Excellent judgment, communication skills, and ability to de-escalate conflicts Physical fitness to perform patrol duties and respond to emergencies Commitment to community-oriented policing and transparent law enforcement Pass a thorough background investigation, medical exam, and psychological evaluation About California State University San Marcos California State University San Marcos is a comprehensive public university serving a diverse student population in the heart of San Diego County. We're committed to providing a safe, inclusive campus environment where students can learn and thrive. How to Apply Submit your application through this job listing. Qualified candidates with lateral POST certification and current law enforcement experience are encouraged to apply.
Generated for personal interview prep · 2026-08-02 UTC · getajob.ai