Washington State Patrol Lateral Trooper

About the role

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're community leaders and lifesavers, making a real difference across the state every single day.

Responsibilities

• Patrol designated areas 24/7 and respond swiftly to emergency service calls
• Conduct traffic stops, issue citations, and make arrests when needed
• Operate patrol vehicles in both routine and high-intensity scenarios
• Execute advanced vehicle tactics including PIT maneuvers, spike strips, and roadblocks
• Pursue suspects by vehicle or on foot while maintaining officer and public safety
• Administer sobriety tests for drug/alcohol impairment
• Provide roadside assistance and deliver emergency aid when lives are on the line
• Investigate collisions and crimes, collect evidence, and prepare legal documentation
• Testify in court proceedings as a professional witness
• Inspect and maintain all issued gear and safety equipment
• Participate in crisis situations, civil disturbances, and community outreach efforts

Qualifications

• Completion of a Basic Law Enforcement Academy and required probationary period at a current/former law enforcement agency
• 12 or more months of traffic law enforcement experience
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Washington State Driver’s License
• High school diploma, GED, or state-recognized home school 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

Professional Integrity & Character Standards

• 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 patrol vehicle independently in routine and emergency situations
• Know when and how to deploy emergency lights and sirens
• Properly handle all issued equipment and demonstrate its effective use
• Provide credible courtroom testimony as required

Training Program

• Lateral Transfers: Complete a five-week trooper equivalency course followed by a five-week field training program with a senior WSP officer for a total of 10 weeks
• Out-of-State Peace Officers: Must complete a two-week Washington State equivalency course to obtain certification

Compensation

• Monthly salary based on seniority as a fully commissioned peace officer
• Shift Differential Pay, Education Incentive Pay, Geographic Pay, and Specialty Pay
• Paid Leave Time and Benefits

Supplemental Information

• Hiring Incentive: $20,000 hiring bonus
• Benefits may vary by job

How to Apply

To be considered, you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov. You must complete the entire application in order to be considered. Out of state applicants must be prepared to submit their Peace Officer Certification documents and Academy Syllabus to include the topic and hours of each course.