Campus Police Officer

Western Washington U; Bellingham (WA); On-site; USD 81,277 - 109,340; Full time

Job summary

Western Washington University is seeking dedicated individuals for the Police Officer role at its Bellingham campus. Officers will enforce laws, patrol the campus, and respond to emergencies while promoting community relations.

Ideal candidates will be 21 years of age or older, possess a valid driver's license, and must pass a physical ability test. Compensation ranges from $81,277 to $109,340 annually depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Must pass a physical ability test prior to hire and during the Basic Law Enforcement Academy.
• Legally allowed to work in the United States.
• Valid driver’s license is required.
• No record of felony convictions.

Responsibilities

• Patrol and protect the 220-acre campus and surrounding area.
• Enforce campus regulations and local, state, and federal laws.
• Respond to emergencies, incidents, and call-outs in a timely and professional manner.
• Conduct community outreach and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Skills

Physical ability test

Community outreach

Collaboration with police agencies

Enforcement of laws

Education

Accredited Associate’s degree or 90 undergraduate credit hours

Job description

About the Position

The Western Washington University Police Department (WWUPD) provides law‑enforcement services at its Bellingham campus and serves the university community 24 hours a day. Officers enforce campus regulations, local, state and federal laws, and work collaboratively with the City of Bellingham Police Departments, SWAT, and other agencies.

Responsibilities

• Patrol and protect the 220‑acre campus and surrounding area.
• Enforce campus regulations and local, state, and federal laws.
• Respond to emergencies, incidents, and call‑outs in a timely and professional manner.
• Collaborate with Bellingham Police Departments SWAT, Whatcom County Special Events Team, and other partners.
• Conduct community outreach and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
• Operate specialty positions such as Firearms, Patrol Tactics, Taser, Defensive Tactics, and EVOC instruction.

Required Qualifications

Entry Level (no previous law‑enforcement experience)

• 21 years of age.
• Legally allowed to work in the United States.
• Must pass a physical ability test prior to hire and during the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA).
• Valid driver’s license.
• No record of felony convictions.
• Completion of the Public Safety Testing process for application consideration.

Lateral Police Officer

• Experience as a fully commissioned law‑enforcement officer in Washington State or the ability to obtain a Washington State Commission through the Equivalency Academy upon hire.
• 21 years of age.
• Legally allowed to work in the United States.
• Must pass a physical ability test prior to hire and during the BLEA.
• Valid driver’s license.
• No record of felony convictions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Accredited Associate’s degree or 90 undergraduate credit hours or equivalent education/experience.
• Positive working relationships with diverse community members, including young adults, people of color, LGBTQ people, and other marginalized groups.

Conditions of Employment

All officers must comply with the university’s immunization policies, including proof of measles immunity within 60 days of hire. Applicants must also pass an extensive background investigation, polygraph test, psychological evaluation, medical physical evaluation, and fingerprint background check. The position requires a background check and a medical physical examination. Employers will also verify Employment Eligibility Verification required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Compensation

$81,277 – $109,340 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

EEO & Disability Statement

Western Washington University is an equal‑opportunity and affirmative‑action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy and parenting status), disability, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, or genetic information. The university is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Application Notes

The position is open until filled. Application materials should address experience related to the responsibilities and the required and preferred qualifications.