Lateral Police Officer

Qualifications

All candidates must carefully review and understand the qualifications and processes of becoming a Wichita Falls Police Officer. Before proceeding, visit:
Police Recruiting. All candidates must complete a personal history statement found at the above URL. Lateral applicants must be TCOLE Certified. Federal and out of state candidates please contact the Police Training Division at  for more information.

The purpose of this position is to enforce federal, state and local laws and provide protection to citizens. This is accomplished by responding to general and critical incidents to investigate and enforce violations, patrolling geographical limits, responding to crime scenes, processing information; and identifying, restraining and/or transporting suspects. Additional duties include answering questions from the public, testifying in court, assisting other officers and departments, educating the public, and preparing and maintaining reports and logs.

Certification as a police officer by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Education. Employees, assigned to training duties, must also obtain certification as an instructor from the Commission. Officers, assigned to the Motorcycles, must possess a valid Texas Operators and Motorcycle License, Class C/M. Driver's License Required - Y Type - C Endorsements - N/A

Formal

Education:

Graduation from high school or GED Certificate with 12 semester hours credit from an accredited college or university with a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 Scale and successful completion of the prescribed course of instruction for Police Officers as administered by the Wichita Falls Police Department or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills:
Knowledge of modern police practices and methods. Knowledge of departmental procedures, rules and regulations. Knowledge of applicable federal, state and local laws and ordinances including laws of arrest. Knowledge of street layout and geography of the city. Ability to deal firmly and courteously with the public. Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Ability to maintain required records and to prepare reports.

Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively and to determine proper courses of action. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to meet such physical requirements as may be established by competent authority. Skill in the use of firearms and such other regular and special police equipment as may be assigned.

Code: 5241-7

Type: INTERNAL & EXTERNAL

Location:

POLICE CIVIL SERVICE

Grade: POLICE CS NE

Job Family: 33-3051.01 POLICE PATROL OFFIC

Job Class: POLICE OFFICER

Posting Start: 09/23/2025

Posting End: 12/31/9999

HOURLY RATE RANGE: $35.10-$40.85

• Entry level

• Full-time

• Other