Lateral Patrol Officer

July 21, 2026

POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT

Lateral Patrol Officer

City of The Dalles Police Department

Department: Police Department

Compensation: $80,609.37 - $96,251.80 annually

Status: Full-time, FLSA Non-Exempt, Union-eligible

Closing Date: Open until filled. Applications received by 5pm 08/04/2026 will be considered for the first round of interviews.

Note:

This recruitment may be used to fill future vacancies.

The City of The Dalles Police Department is seeking an experienced, professional, community‑oriented patrol officer to join our team as a Lateral Patrol Officer. If you are committed to service, integrity, and building strong community relationships, we encourage you to apply for this career opportunity.

• Uphold and promote the department's mission, values, and directives through consistent professional conduct and decision‑making.
• Perform all assigned duties safely, efficiently, and effectively, demonstrating sound judgment and self‑initiative.
• Maintain personal conduct-on and off duty-in a manner that sustains public trust and confidence in the department.
• Work independently for extended periods with minimal direct supervision while exercising strong problem‑solving skills.
• Perform general law enforcement duties including responding to calls for service, patrolling, investigating complaints and crimes, conducting follow‑up, writing reports, and testifying credibly in court.
• Manage emergencies, protect people and property, secure and monitor prisoners, and operate vehicles and equipment safely.
• Use self‑directed work efficiently when not responding to calls by prioritizing tasks identified by supervisory personnel.
• Perform other related duties as assigned, including temporarily assuming additional duties when necessary.

• Commitment to community‑oriented policing
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Sound judgment, ethical decision‑making, and effective problem‑solving
• Professionalism and integrity
• Ability to interpret and apply laws and policies
• Strong report‑writing and computer skills
• Ability to remain calm in high‑pressure situations
• Ability to safely operate police vehicles and equipment
• Commitment to teamwork and exceptional public service

• Successful completion of a state‑certified police academy equivalent to Oregon DPSST (or applicable state standard)
• Current police officer certification (or eligibility for certification transfer/reciprocity)
• At least one (1) year of full‑time experience as a sworn law enforcement officer
• At least one (1) year of experience producing clear written and verbal communication in a workplace or organizational setting and following written and verbal instructions accurately
• Ability to testify in court with credibility and integrity

• Field Training Officer (FTO) experience
• Experience with modern policing technologies (RMS, CAD, digital evidence systems, etc.)
• Spanish language proficiency (written and verbal)
• Instructor certifications
• Firearms instructor or advanced firearms certifications
• Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) certification
• Specialized investigative, tactical, or supervisory training
• Other advanced law enforcement certifications and qualifications

Benefits

The City offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and HRA-VEBA.
• Long‑term disability and accidental death and dismemberment insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• City‑paid retirement contributions of 13.5% after one year of service.

Work is primarily performed outdoors and from a patrol vehicle, with conditions varying by shift. Officers must lift, push, pull, or carry heavy loads-over 100 pounds occasionally, 50 pounds frequently, and 20…