Police Officer: Certified

About the Role

Performs general duty police work in the enforcement of laws and ordinances.

Responsibilities

• Exercises powers of arrest and control; defends self and uses force and deadly force.
• Enforces motor vehicle laws; operates vehicle under emergency conditions and provides emergency assistance.
• Responds to crime scenes and performs criminal investigations; participates in special operations.
• Patrols a designated area on foot or in a radio and computer equipped vehicle to preserve law and order, prevent and discover crime, direct traffic, and enforce traffic and parking regulations.
• Answers calls and investigates complaints involving accidents, fires, misdemeanors, and felonies; investigates suspicious activities.
• Administers first aid, interviews witnesses, gathers information and evidence, makes arrests, prepares reports, and testifies as a witness in court.
• May be assigned specialized technical or administrative duties such as working the police desk, maintaining criminal records, license inspection, photographic and identification work, traffic safety training, field training, or radio operation.
• Advises the public on laws and ordinances, provides general information, and assists the public.
• Performs related work as required.

Requirements

• Completion of high school or equivalent.
• Successful completion of the Washington State Criminal Justice Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA).
• Possession of a valid driver’s license and a valid WSCJTC BLEA certification.
• Must be 20 years of age at the time of application and 21 years of age at the time of appointment.
• Must be within the normal weight range for height.
• Physical requirements (eyesight, hearing, and other physical abilities) consistent with state law and guidelines.
• Must pass a post-offer physical and psychological examination prior to appointment.
• A police record may be grounds for rejection.
• 18-month probationary period upon hire for entry-level and certified employees.

Examination Details

Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to be invited to take the examination. Those who pass will be placed on the hiring list.

• The examination consists of a Training and Experience Evaluation (T&E), a written test where applicants answer structured questions based on their previous experience, training, or education.
• This is an online examination requiring a computer. If you lack access, notify Civil Service for accommodation or use a public library.
• Upon passing minimum qualifications, you will receive a Personal History Statement to complete and submit along with the T&E. This is mandatory for a background investigation.