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Lateral Officers
Join as a Lateral Officer
The Midland Police Department offers a lateral officer program that allows police officers from other agencies to transfer and join the Midland Police force. Lateral officers are exempt from attending the Police Academy, and their field training is based on their experience.
Get Started
1. Complete the Eligibility Survey
Start by completing our online eligibility survey to determine if you meet the minimum qualifications for the Police Lateral Officer position. If you qualify, a member of the Midland Police Department recruitment team will reach out to you with next steps on how to apply.
2. Physical & Written Exam
Physical Exam: physical assessment includes a 1.5-mile run, 30 sit-ups, and 25 push-ups, with uniform standards for all applicants. Failing three consecutive assessments leads to a one-year testing ban. Bring a valid driver’s license, suitable clothing, and water. Testing is at Midland Police Range, 4214 FM 307, Midland, TX 79706.
Written Exam: given to applicants who pass the Physical Fitness Standards. It is a four-part law enforcement P.O.S.T. test covering Math, Reading, Grammar, and Writing. Calculators, dictionaries, and telecommunication devices, including watch alarms, are not permitted.
Upcoming Testing Dates
Location: Midland Police Range, 4214 FM 307, Midland, TX 79706
Physical Testing Overview: 30 Sit-Ups, 25 Push-Ups, 1.5 Mile Run (14m:46s)
Dates: Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 9 AM and Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 9 AM
3. Interview with Police Recruitment Team
After passing the physical and written tests, candidates will participate in an interview with our recruitment team to discuss your motivation, qualifications, and suitability for the role. This is an opportunity to showcase your commitment and alignment with our department’s values.
4. Background Check
Candidates must complete and return a Personal History packet by the specified deadline. The Police Department will conduct a comprehensive background check, verifying all details provided. Any omissions or falsifications will result in disqualification. Background investigators will reach out once they begin the process, which generally takes between one week and two months.
5.Medical Exam
Medical examination to ensure you meet the physical health standards required for the role.
6. Sworn Officer
Once hired, recruits will receive full pay and benefits. Graduates must pass the state peace officer licensing exam.
7. Field Training Officer Program
Lateral officers will have a Field Training Officer Program tailored to their experience. This will be a customized program.
8. Training Complete
Successfully complete all required training and evaluations, you will be assigned a patrol shift.
Education Requirements
- High school diploma
- GED holders must have at least 12 college credit hours from an accredited institution with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
- A specified number of accredited college hours or a combination of accredited college hours with qualified experience.
Physical Testing Requirements:
- 30 Sit-Ups, 25 Push-Ups, 1.5 Mile Run (14m:46s)
Additional Requirements
- Minimum Qualifications Midland Police Department is looking for Certified Peace Officers.
- For out-of-state offices, the pay scale is adjusted depending on the length of service.
- Out of state, lateral officers must attend a full-length police academy.
- Midland Police Department holds its own 21-week academy. Followed by a 17-week field training program.
- Lateral officers with a peace officers license in the state of Texas will NOT have to attend the academy.
Uniform and Equipment
Uniforms and Equipment: All uniforms and equipment are provided, with the exception of footwear. Uniforms are professionally dry cleaned at no cost to the employee.
Vehicle and Fleet
Personal Car Program: Established in 1978, this unique program allows officers to use a department-issued vehicle. The department maintains a safe and effective fleet by replacing one-fifth of its vehicles annually. Officers receive a vehicle upon completing the Field Training Officer (FTO) program.
Insurance and Health Benefits
Insurance: Employees are covered by major medical, hospitalization, dental, and life insurance. The City funds over 70% of the premiums, with optional participation beginning two months after employment.
Retirement
Retirement Plan: Employees are part of the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS). Contributions start at employment, with employees contributing seven percent of their wages and the City matching contributions two to one upon retirement. Employees can retire after 20 years of service, with benefits vested after five years. Prior or current military service can count for up to 60 months towards TMRS retirement.
Financial and Leave Benefits
- Deferred Compensation: Employees may participate in a deferred compensation program to shelter a portion of their salary from taxes.
- Vacation/Holidays: After one year of consecutive service, employees receive 15 days of annual leave and 10 holidays per year.
- Sick Leave: Employees accrue 10 days of sick leave annually, with unused sick leave being cumulative up to a maximum of 90 days.
The current starting pay for a Police Recruit is $72,103 annually. Police Officer's pay progression is based on a nine-step pay scale that is based on years of employment, annual evaluations, and TCOLE certificate level. The first four steps for Officers are listed below. There are separate pay scales for each individual rank above Officer. Additional Incentives are not calculated for pay scale.
| Rank | Annually |
|---|---|
| Police Officer Step 1 - Completion of probationary period | $79,201 |
| Police Officer Step 2 - 1 year of service | $83,172 |
| Police Officer Step 3 - 2-3 years of service | $87,313 |
| Police Officer Step 4 - 4-5 years of service | $91,424 |
Additional pay can be earned as follows:
| Course / Degree Completed | Monthly |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree (any field) | $99.00 |
| Associate Degree (Police Sciences) | $250.00 |
| Bachelor Degree (any field) | $180.00 |
| Bachelor Degree (Police Sciences) | $400.00 |
| Master's Degree (any field) | $230.00 |
| Master's Degree (Police Sciences) | $500.00 |
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| Intermediate TCOLE Certificate | $60.00 |
| Advanced TCL Certificate | $110.00 |
| Master TCL Certificate | $150.00 |
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| Maximum Incentive Pay Cap | $1000.00 |
| Major Schools Pay-FBI National Academy and Law Enforcement Management Institute | $75 |
Longevity is paid at a rate of $6.00 per month per year of service.
College tuition reimbursement is also available to those officers wishing to continue their education. Employees have easy access to a community college and an upper-level university.
Last Updated: 02/03/2026