Lateral Transfer Officer

Cambridge PD:
Full-Time Certified | Lateral Transfer Officer

Final date to receive applications: Applications for the Cambridge PD's 2026 hiring initiative will be accepted through October 1, 2026.

Bring Your Experience Where It Matters Most. Step Into a Department That’s Built Different—Cambridge PD.

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You’ve already put in the work. Now it’s time to bring your experience to a department—and a city—that matches your level.

The Cambridge Police Department is seeking certified and lateral transfer officers ready to take the next step in their careers while serving one of the most dynamic, diverse, and forward-thinking communities in Massachusetts.

The Work: Cambridge is a busy, urban environment with a wide range of calls for service. Officers handle everything from quality-of-life concerns to complex invitations and critical incidents. Our patrol division operates on structured shifts designed to provide consistent coverage across the city.

In addition to patrol, officers have opportunities to work in specialized units, including:

• Criminal Investigations
• Youth Resource Officers
• Community Action and Outreach Teams
• Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Investigations.
• Behavioral health and co-response initiatives.

One of the defining features of our department is the Family and Social Justice Section, which focuses on supporting vulnerable populations, addressing behavioral health needs, and building long-term solutions alongside community partners.

Leadership and Growth: We encourage initiative at every level. Officers are given opportunities to develop specialized skills, take on leadership roles, and contribute ideas that improve the department. Training, mentorship, and professional development are priorities, not afterthoughts.

The Community: Cambridge is a vibrant, growing urban community of approximately 120,000 residents and the fourth largest city in Massachusetts. It is a global hub of innovation, education, and culture—home to Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and a rapidly expanding network of biotech and high-tech companies.

Our community is diverse and globally connected:

• 34% of residents identify as people of color.
• 34% of residents speak a language other than English at home.

Our Culture:

• Our department values professionalism, respect, and sound judgement.
• Officers are expected to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach every interaction with fairness and integrity. We operate in a community that is engaged and informed, and we embrace that as part of the job.
• You will be supported by leadership that is present, accessible, and invested in your growth. At the same time, you will be held to a high standard.
• We believe in backing our officers while also expecting accountability and strong decision-making.

Why Cambridge PD:

• A culture that values professionalism and respect.
• Leadership that is engaged and supportive.
• Meaningful work that goes beyond enforcement.
• Opportunities for specialization and career growth.
• A community that expects and support thoughtful policing.

If you’re looking for more than just a change of patch—this is where your experience can make a real difference. Join the Cambridge Police Department—where innovation, diversity, and community-driven policing define the future of law enforcement.

The Cambridge PD has outlined minimum qualifications and preferences that reflect the needs, values, and expectations of our department and community. In order to be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Required Supporting Documents:

• You must include an uploaded copy of both your MPTC-approved police academy graduation certificate and your active POST certification with your application.

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