Police Officer; Lateral​/Experienced

Position Overview

The City of Puyallup is hiring Lateral Police Officers. The position includes a $30,000 hiring bonus, paid in three installments of $10,000 upon hire, completion of the Police Training Officer program, and completion of probation. New officers receive 100 hours of vacation and sick leave upon completion of the program.

Monthly salary ranges from $10,221.00 to $10,759.00. Additional pay opportunities include patrol shift differential, education incentive pay, premium pay for specialty roles, and longevity pay starting after five years of service.

• Patrol designated areas on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, or vehicle, preserving law and order, preventing crime and ensuring public safety.
• Respond to calls involving fire, traffic accidents, domestic situations, robberies, misdemeanors, disturbances, and felonies, and take necessary police action.
• Conduct preliminary investigations at crime scenes, gather evidence, locate and question witnesses.
• Apprehend, interview, and arrest suspects; restrain suspects if necessary.
• Interview witnesses and collectors, perform surveillance, testify in court, and prepare reports using software applications.
• Assist other jurisdictions and agencies and participate in undercover investigations of narcotics, gambling, vice and other activities.
• Perform additional duties as assigned and respond to emergency duties at any time.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years full‑time police experience in Washington or 3 years in another state, with no break in service over 24 months.
• Graduate of a state or regional Basic Law Enforcement Academy or equivalent; equivalency examination within six months of hire.

Special Qualifications

• Minimum age 23.
• United States citizen, lawful permanent resident, or deferred action for childhood arrivals recipient.
• Proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking).
• Valid Washington State driver’s license throughout employment.

Desirable Qualifications

• Five or more years of police experience with a specialty beyond patrol.
• Associate of Arts degree in police science or Bachelor's degree in law and justice or related field.

Successful candidates must complete a 12‑month trial service period, obtain breathalyzer and radar operator certifications within the first six months, and maintain required physical fitness. Uniform must not display visible offensive tattoos or body art.

Abilities required include sitting and operating vehicles, driving, reading and writing reports, standing, walking, lift up to 20 pounds, operating firearms, and occasional swimming or rescue duties. Work is outdoors or in vehicles for up to 90% of the time with moderate to high noise exposure and temperature variations.

Qualified deferred compensation plan with City matching up to 4% of base wage. Group health insurance (medical, dental, vision), life and long‑term disability coverage. Medical premiums after first year may be fully paid by the City when wellness incentive is met.

The City of Puyallup is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and does not discriminate in any employer/employee relations based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, veteran's status or any other basis protected by applicable discrimination laws.