Patrol Officer; Lateral Entry

Lateral Entry Eligibility

Applicants who have a minimum of two consecutive years of full-time law enforcement service with no break in service for more than one year, at the time of application, and possess a current Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy Certificate or an Ohio State Highway Patrol Basic Training Certificate may apply for a lateral appointment without taking the civil service examination. Candidates laid off within one year from the date of application or placed in a part‑time or reserve position after having worked in a full-time position for two consecutive years within one year from the date of application may also apply, provided the candidate holds a current Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy Certificate or an Ohio Highway State Patrol Basic Training Certificate.

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to apply must submit all the following documentation:

• An application for Employment.
• A copy of the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy Certificate or the Ohio Highway State Patrol Basic Training Certificate.
• A current cover letter and résumé outlining prior law enforcement experience and training.
• Contact:
  Human Resources
• No documents that reveal a social security number.

All documents must be received by the closing date on this posting.

PHYSICAL ABILITY TESTING IS SCHEDULED FOR MARCH 31, 2026.

• Phase 1:
  Run 300 feet (100 yards) from the open driver’s door to the end of the pavement or stone path.
• Phase 2:
  Climb five steps, move approximately 75 feet in the prescribed direction, and descend five steps, stepping on all five steps.
• Phase 3:
  Move approximately 75 feet and jump over a box measuring 18 in H × 12 in W × 36 in L.
• Phase 4:
  Load six inert rounds into each of two pistol magazines (12 rounds). Charge the duty weapon with one magazine and fire six times with the dominant hand, reload, then fire six times with the non‑dominant hand.
• Phase 5:
  Move 75 feet, open the driver’s door, unlock the rear doors, remove the 165‑lb dummy from the right rear seat, and drag it 15 feet across a line on the ground.
• Phase 6:
  Move to the rear of the police vehicle and push a disabled vehicle approximately 20 feet so the rear bumper crosses the line.
• Phase 7:
  Re‑enter the driver’s seat, put the transmission shift lever in Park, remove the ignition and handcuff key, unlock a set of handcuffs, and raise both hands to stop the clock.

End of the Physical Ability Test.

Under the direct supervision of a Sergeant, a Police Officer patrols a designated area, ensuring compliance with applicable state laws and city ordinances; answers calls when a crime is suspected or an emergency exists; takes actions necessary to prevent crime, apprehend criminals, and maintain safety; assists citizens in a wide range of emergency and non‑emergency situations; and performs other related duties as directed by a Sergeant, Lieutenant, Deputy Chief, or Chief of Police.

• Drive a police vehicle and patrol an assigned area.
• Report unsafe conditions, such as obstructions in streets.
• Issue citations for traffic law violations.
• Makes arrests for criminal law violations, sometimes requiring physical effort.
• Transport prisoners.
• Investigate traffic accidents and other incidents.
• Conduct investigations of crimes and preserve crime scenes.
• Search homes and businesses for evidence.
• Testify in court.
• Assist stranded motorists and answer inquiries.
• Investigate potential criminal activity.
• Create and maintain records and reports.
• Takes statements from victims, witnesses and suspects.
• Secure arrests and search warrants as required.
• Interview juveniles, recommend charges, appear in court and work with school authorities.
• Direct and regulate traffic.
• Perform any other related duties as assigned.

• High School Diploma, G.E.D., or equivalent certificate.
• Minimum of two years full‑time law enforcement experience.
• Minimum of 21 years of age.
• Valid driver’s license and eligibility for city vehicle insurance coverage.
• Eligibility to work legally in the United States.
• Background free of prior felony convictions.
• Regular and…