Terence D. Jackson began his career with the Memphis Police Department on December 11, 1982, entering the Training Academy as a Police Recruit. Upon completion of Basic Training on April 16, 1983, he was assigned to North Precinct Charlie shift.

As a Patrol Officer, Officer Jackson was also assigned to the West Precinct Alpha and Charlie shift, Regional Medical Center Alpha shift, West Precinct General Investigation Bureau Bravo shift, Motorcycle, Crime Scene Investigation Alpha shift, and General Assignment.

On June 22, 1998, Officer Jackson was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. As a Sergeant, he was assigned to Vehicle Theft and Auto Cargo Task Force Bravo shift.

On June 17, 2005, Sergeant Jackson was promoted to Lieutenant. As Lieutenant he was assigned Airways Station, Organized Crime Unit/ Vice, Appling Farms Station Alpha shift, Canine Unit Alpha shift and Organized Crime Unit/CAT.

On February 18, 2019, Lieutenant Jackson was promoted to the rank of Major. As a Major, he was assigned to Special Ops Administration and Organized Crime Unit.

On July 31, 2023, Major Jackson was appointed to the rank of Colonel. As a Colonel, he was assigned to Crump Station Administration.

On January 4, 2025, Colonel Jackson was appointed to Deputy Chief of Investigative Services.