CORPUS CHRISTI (Kiii News) -
Do you have what it takes to be a State Trooper? If so, the Department of Public Safety wants to hear from you. They have as many as 500 jobs to fill statewide.
Recruiter, Cpl. Maria Martinez, said more troopers are needed on Texas roads, and she is the person in charge of making it happen. Martinez is based out of Weslaco, but was in the Coastal Bend on Friday searching for new recruits who are willing to join their next academy.
Martinez said massive retirements and new specialized units have left them with the shortfall. Some troopers have also left due to new jobs involving Eagle-Ford Shale.
Starting salary while recruits are going through the Academy is $35,000. Then, after the first year on the job, the salary jumps to $47,000 a year.
"It's a great career. Every day is a different day," Martinez said. "Drug interdiction, DWI enforcement. It keeps us busy, of course. We are protecting and serving the community. It's rewarding in itself."
The Department also pays an additional $50 a paycheck, depending on your education. A master's degree gets you $150; being bilingual, an extra $50 per paycheck.
Anyone who is interested must first qualify. You must be at least 20-years old, but there is no maximum age limit. Also, you must have at least 60 hours of college credit, have two years in the military or have served two years as a peace officer. You also have to be in good physical condition to pass all the tests.
For a full list of details, go to www.joindps.com.
