Law Enforcement Officer

HIRING BONUS FOR LATERAL POLICE OFFICERS: $12,500

For comprehensive details regarding our department, including compensation and benefits such as educational incentives and a flexible work schedule, please refer to our informational brochure.

To be eligible as a lateral candidate, applicants must fulfill the minimum requirements outlined in the police officer job description and:

• Have completed a basic law enforcement training program recognized by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission;
• Have successfully undergone field training and completed probation as a full-time, active, sworn municipal, county, or state law enforcement officer;
• Have not been separated from law enforcement for more than 60 months at the time of hire;
• Be capable of performing all essential functions of the role.

Residency requirement: All police officers must reside within fifty (50) road miles of Port Townsend city limits within six months of hire date.

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the general oversight of a commanding officer, Police Officers are sworn law enforcement officials responsible for a broad range of public safety and community caretaking tasks. These include maintaining peace, safeguarding life and property, enforcing laws and regulations, preventing crime, investigating criminal activities, and providing safety education to the public.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Execute daily responsibilities in accordance with Washington State laws and departmental policies as authorized by the Chief of Police.
• Effectuate arrests, utilizing necessary force if required, employing handcuffs and other restraints; subdue non-compliant suspects using approved maneuvers and self-defense techniques.
• Draft investigative reports and other documentation, including sketches, utilizing proper grammar and mathematical calculations.
• Exercise independent judgment to determine reasonable suspicion for detainment, probable cause for searches and arrests, and appropriate levels of force.
• Operate law enforcement vehicles under various conditions, including emergencies requiring speeds exceeding posted limits and navigating unsafe road conditions.
• Communicate effectively over law enforcement radio channels while managing incoming and outgoing communications.
• Gather intelligence and conduct criminal investigations through interviews with victims, witnesses, suspects, and informants.
• Pursue fleeing suspects and perform rescue operations, which may require physical agility and endurance.
• Load, unload, aim, and discharge firearms from various positions, maintaining proficiency under stress.
• Conduct searches of individuals, vehicles, and locations, which may involve physical detection and prolonged walking.
• Engage in surveillance activities for extended durations.
• Perform patrol duties, including foot patrols and ensuring the security of premises.
• Demonstrate effective communication skills in court and formal settings through verbal testimony and presentation of evidence.
• Detect and collect evidence related to criminal offenses and hazardous conditions.
• Provide rescue assistance during emergencies, including traffic direction and administering first aid.
• Process and transport individuals in custody using appropriate restraints.
• Refer complex issues to a supervisor.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Understanding of crime prevention principles, law enforcement practices, and the criminal justice system.
• Familiarity with laws, regulations, and departmental policies.
• Ability to comprehend laws regarding arrest, search and seizure, and evidence rules.
• Capacity to respond swiftly and judiciously in emergencies.
• Flexibility and adaptability in decision-making processes.
• Knowledge of safe physical restraint methods.
• Proficiency in weapon handling and safety.
• Ability to maintain a cooperative attitude towards colleagues and the public.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including report preparation.
• Physical capability to perform job functions.
• Proficiency in computer and word processing software.
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to operate vehicles and related equipment.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid Washington State driver's license at the time of employment.
• Minimum age of 21 at the time of employment.
• Successful completion of a thorough background check, polygraph, psychological evaluation, physical agility test, and comprehensive physical examination prior to employment.
• No felony convictions or misdemeanors involving moral turpitude.
• Current first aid and CPR certification at the time of appointment.
• Completion of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission approved Basic Academy.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

• Employees must maintain all mandatory job-related certifications, including Washington State Peace Officer Certification, firearms qualification, first aid, CPR, and a valid Washington State driver's license.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Must be capable of performing all essential job functions at a level consistent with actual job performance requirements. This includes a high degree of physical ability, encompassing vision, hearing, speech, flexibility, and strength. Work may involve exposure to infectious materials while assisting victims and performing other duties. Responsibilities are frequently conducted outdoors, in patrol vehicles, and in office settings. The work environment may be noisy and distracting.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Consistent and punctual attendance.
• Possess a valid Washington Driver's License and maintain an acceptable driving record.
• Adhere to appropriate dress and grooming standards for the position.
• Utilize safety equipment and practices relevant to the role.
• Interact respectfully and tactfully with the public.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues.

The City of Port Townsend is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made based on job-related qualifications and competence, without regard to any individual's protected characteristics.

This job description does not imply that these are the only duties to be performed. The employee in this position may be required to follow additional job-related instructions and perform other duties as requested by supervisors.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change based on the needs of the City and job requirements.

BENEFITS

• WA State LEOFF pension plan
• Optional 457 Deferred Compensation with a 50% match of up to 4% of base earnings
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance through WA Teamsters Welfare Trust Fund
• Short-term disability insurance
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Sick leave accrual (1 day per month)
• Vacation accrual (starting at 8 hours per month)
• 12 paid holidays (accrued at 10 hours per month)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

COMPENSATION

Base pay: $ per hour (five-step system)

Total compensation range: $ per hour (including potential longevity, educational incentives, and specialty pay)

This position may be eligible for additional compensation as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement:

• Longevity pay starting at 1% after 2 years, up to 9% after 20 years
• Educational incentives: 3% for an Associate's degree; 5% for a Bachelor's degree
• Overtime pay
• Compensatory time
• Holiday pay for scheduled or called-in work on holidays
• Specialty pay for specific assignments

* Teamsters initiation fee and monthly dues apply.

** Officers may be required to work on holidays.