Police Officer - Lateral

Bend Police Officer

Are you ready to make a real impact in one of Oregon's most vibrant cities? The Bend Police Department is calling on lateral officers who are driven, community-minded individuals to join our forward-thinking force. We're not just about law enforcement — we're about innovation, collaboration, and building trust with the people we serve.

As a Bend Police Officer, you'll be part of a dynamic team that values integrity, excellence, and teamwork. We're proud to serve over 106,000 residents through progressive, community-based policing that puts people first. Whether you're starting your journey or looking to advance your career, this is your opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference.

The position is represented by the Bend Police Association and is FLSA non-exempt — meaning you're eligible for overtime as you help shape the future of public safety in Bend.

Classification Framework:
Class Specifications | Police Officer | Class Spec Details

$10,000.00 Hiring Incentive

We offer new lateral police officers that possess a police certification through Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) or state equivalent.

• $5,000.00 to be paid in lump sum during normal payroll cycle
• $5,000.00 upon successful completion of probationary period, to be paid in a lump sum during the normal payroll cycle
• 40 hours of sick leave, available to use immediately with no waiting period
• 40 hours of vacation leave, available to use immediately with no waiting period

Job Highlights for Lateral Officers

• Starting Salary: $90,756.72 up to $ (with Advanced DPSST certification)
• Moving expenses reimbursement (up to $3,000)
• Supplied uniform and gear including vest
• 11.25-hour schedule that is four (4) working days followed by four (4) days off
• On-duty workouts, onsite mental health clinician, functional fitness, and more
• Educational Reimbursements
• Community Enhancement Program:
  Additional 2% to gross wages
• Language Fluency:
  Qualify for a $2.00 per hour increase for fluency in languages other than English, as approved by the Chief of Police
• VA On-the-Job training program available for our Veterans
• Additional Benefits:
  As noted within the Collective Bargaining Agreement

Lateral Police Officers may earn up to an additional 10% or 15% premium pay (depending on qualifications through DPSST)

• Pay Step 2: $7,563.06 (6-18 months of solo officer experience)
• Pay Step 3: $7,941.22 (18-30 months of solo officer experience)
• Pay Step 4: $8,338.30 (30-42 months of solo officer experience)
• Pay Step 5: $8,755.20 (42 or more months of solo officer experience)
• For out of state applicants, we are experienced in requesting reciprocity for your certifications and can guide you through the process

Our police officers demonstrate unwavering dedication in their service. During their time off, they enjoy the benefit of residing in a region that boasts over 290 days of sunshine annually, to take full advantage of Central Oregon.

• Floating the Deschutes River
• Skiing helor
• Exploring Smith Rock State Park
• Enjoying the natural beauty of Cascade Lakes for hiking, camping and scenic views
• Hunting and Fishing
• Old Mill District: restaurants with review views, walking paths, shopping and an amphitheater for concerts
• Last Blockbuster: visit the world's last remaining Blockbuster Video store for a walk down memory lane

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification. Shown are duties intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.

As a Bend Police Officer you will

• Carry out the mission of the agency as defined in the mission statement; models and promotes the core values of the organization.
• First, responders to incidents, you serve as a direct link between the department and the public.
• Respond to and investigate incidents and crime scenes, taking action at incidents, proactively patrolling assigned areas, engaging in information leading policing activities and making independent decisions…