Washington State Patrol Lateral Trooper

About the Washington State Patrol

The Washington State Patrol is a nationally accredited law enforcement agency driven by integrity, commitment, and service. Our troopers are more than highway patrol – they are community leaders and lifesavers, making a real difference across the state every single day.

• Fast-Tracked Onboarding: Streamlined training tailored for experienced officers
• Career Advancement: Specialized units, promotion pathways, and leadership programs
• Statewide Reach: Influence safety on highways, in communities, and across jurisdictions
• High Standards & Camaraderie: Join an elite agency with strong values and lasting friendships

You are a current or former peace officer with transferable skills, integrity, and a desire for continued growth. Whether you are looking for bigger challenges, better support, or a more mission-driven agency – WSP is where your next chapter begins.

You will:

• Enforce traffic and criminal laws within assigned areas through proactive patrols, responsive service calls, and high-standard investigative practices
• Manage traffic flow and respond to collisions with professionalism and care
• Assist motorists, crime victims, and community members with integrity and empathy
• Serve as a liaison to governmental bodies and contribute to public safety initiatives
• Participate in specialized duties and task forces that reinforce statewide security

Washington State Troopers are trained to act decisively, communicate effectively, and respond to complex situations with precision and restraint. Daily responsibilities include:

• Patrolling designated areas 24/7 and responding swiftly to emergency service calls
• Conducting traffic stops, issuing citations, and making arrests when needed
• Operating patrol vehicles in both routine and high-intensity scenarios
• Executing advanced vehicle tactics including PIT maneuvers, spike strips, and roadblocks
• Pursuing suspects by vehicle or on foot while maintaining officer and public safety
• Conducting thorough searches for weapons, contraband, and evidence
• Assessing driver behaviors and administering sobriety tests for drug/alcohol impairment
• Providing roadside assistance and delivering emergency aid when lives are on the line
• Investigating collisions and crimes, collecting evidence, and preparing legal documentation
• Testifying in court proceedings as a professional witness
• Maintaining deep knowledge of state laws, legal procedures, and criminal codes
• Participating in crisis situations, civil disturbances, and community outreach efforts
• Inspecting and maintaining all issued gear and safety equipment

• Completion of a Basic Law Enforcement Academy and required probationary period at a current/former law enforcement agency.
• Must possess 12 or more months of traffic law enforcement experience.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Washington State Driver’s License.
• Possession of a high school diploma, GED, or state-recognized homeschool certificate.
• Successful completion of all hiring phases listed above.
• Willingness to work weekends, holidays, rotating shifts, and be on 24-hour call as needed.
• Compliance with narcotics and controlled substance restrictions, as outlined in WSP Hiring Standards.

Applicants must demonstrate good moral character. Any history of dishonesty, fraud, misrepresentation, or conduct that undermines trust or lawfulness may result in disqualification. A history of domestic violence automatically eliminates candidates per RCW 10.99.

• Administer basic first aid in emergency situations.
• Use force appropriately, including firearms when necessary.
• Communicate effectively via radio equipment and during critical incidents.
• Operate a…