Police Officer - BLEA Certified or Academy Graduate

About the role

The City of Mount Vernon seeks experienced police officers who are passionate about community service and ready to contribute to the city's mission of promoting, preserving, and delivering security.

Responsibilities

• Patrol designated areas in police vehicles and on foot to deter and discover crime.
• Aid persons in trouble and render public services as needed.
• Enforce traffic and parking ordinances, operate radar units, check vehicle IDs, and issue citations.
• Assist with traffic control, serve warrants, arrest suspects, and complete incident and arrest reports.
• Respond to reports of possible crime, investigate accidents, assist in stalled vehicles, and handle complaints.
• Investigate family disputes, report child abuse, and assist mentally ill individuals.
• Perform guard duty, transfer prisoners, and testify in court.
• Conduct thorough investigations, collect evidence, and present cases to the Prosecuting Attorney.
• Develop contacts, investigate stolen property, and perform undercover work.
• Respond to emergencies like bomb threats and conduct searches for hazardous materials.
• Represent the department in public speaking engagements.

Requirements

• Minimum of 21 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 90 quarter hours (60 semester) at an accredited college or university.
• Military veterans with a minimum of 60 credits on their JST may substitute for college education.
• U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident, or DACA recipient.
• Valid Washington State Driver’s License required before start date.
• Graduate of the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) Basic Academy or PRLEA graduate with WSCJTC recognition.
• At least 12 months full-time paid law enforcement experience within the past 24 months.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of federal and state laws, modern police methods, and investigative techniques.
• Ability to maintain self-discipline and ethical behavior.
• Physical fitness to perform strenuous tasks and observe details.
• Effective communication skills and ability to interact with diverse populations.
• Ability to analyze situations and make quick decisions.

Skills and Abilities

• Use and care of firearms.
• Investigative techniques and procedures.
• Clear writing and reporting skills.
• Quick analysis and decision-making.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and integrity.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurances.
• Life Insurance policy.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Department of Retirement Systems Retirement Plan.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Gym Membership reimbursement.
• Deferred Compensation (voluntary).

Pay

Pay steps are determined by the Police Chief based on training and work experience.

Schedule

Shift work is required, including weekends and nights.

Application Process

• Submit a cover letter addressing why you are interested in joining the Mount Vernon Police Department, why you want to serve the community, and why this career move is right for you.
• Attach your resume.
• Provide unofficial transcripts from all accredited colleges/universities attended, including explanations of credit hour conversions.
• Confirm your U.S. citizenship or legal residency status.
• Ensure you are at least 21 years old and have a valid Washington State driver’s license.
• Include proof of graduation from a WSCJTC Basic Academy or PRLEA graduate status.
• Document at least 12 months of full-time paid law enforcement experience within the past 24 months.
• Answer supplemental questions about your definition of policing, challenges in the profession, and a notable project or program you were involved in.