Entry Level Police Officer

City of Tumwater; Tumwater (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dynamic police department in a vibrant community as an Entry Level Police Officer. This role offers the chance to protect and serve while engaging with the community and ensuring safety. Candidates will undergo rigorous training and testing, including a written exam and physical ability test. The successful applicant will patrol city areas, respond to emergencies, and conduct thorough investigations. With opportunities for career growth and a commitment to community engagement, this position is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in law enforcement. Explore the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Tumwater while serving the community.

Qualifications

• Must pass a written exam and physical ability test for recruitment.
• Graduation from high school or GED equivalent is required.

Responsibilities

• Patrols areas to deter crime and enforce laws.
• Responds to emergencies and conducts investigations.
• Prepares case reports and testifies in court.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

First Aid

Problem-Solving

Physical Agility

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Firearms

Law Enforcement Equipment

Job description

If you have not taken the written test through Public Safety Testing, you will not be considered for this position.

PST Scores must be dated March 1, 2025, or later.

The Tumwater Police Department is continuously looking for Entry Level Police Officer candidates. We're searching for individuals to diversify and enhance our excellent team.

To be considered for the recruitment process, applicants for the Entry Level Police Officer position must first pass a written exam and physical ability test through www.PublicSafetyTesting.com. A fee is required to take the exam. Applicants that have scores submitted to Tumwater will be contacted with instructions to complete a city application. Applicants with a minimum of two (2) years of service as a commissioned law enforcement officer may apply as a Lateral Police Officer (see job posting).

Protects life and property through the enforcement of traffic, criminal and other State statutes, laws and City ordinances. Renders assistance to the public and investigates crimes for the purpose of detection, apprehension and prosecution.

Direct supervision is from a superior officer and works performed in accordance with well-established procedures, although individuals must exercise independent judgment in emergency situations. Supervision is not normally a function of this classification, but incumbents may act as a "coach" for reserve officers for newly hired police officers.

1. Patrols areas of the City in a patrol car or on foot to deter and discover crime and enforce traffic and criminal statutes and laws; issues citations to violators and arrests persons on misdemeanor or felony charges; handcuffs and searches arrested persons and takes them into custody as warranted; books arrested persons in a correctional facility.
2. Responds to emergency requests for assistance or to crime-in-progress calls and takes initial action as the situation requires; secures the scene; administers first aid as necessary; interviews available victims and witnesses and gathers evidence; completes incident and arrest reports; arrests suspects for probable cases in felonies.
3. Conducts detailed investigations into one or more type of crimes, including fraud, theft, burglary, narcotics, gambling, homicide, sex offenses and similar crimes; interviews witnesses, suspects and informants; analyzes and interprets data and evidence; performs stake outs and undercover operations; collects evidence; processes and logs evidence into custody and sends evidence to crime lab for analysis if required; participates in criminal investigations conducted by other law enforcement agencies.
4. Obtains search and arrest warrants; serves summons and subpoenas.
5. Performs traffic enforcement duties; responds to and investigates vehicular accidents; summons emergency medical assistance as required; assists visitors by providing directions and other information; performs breathalyzer tests.
6. Prepares case reports, confers with the City or District Attorney; testifies in court.
7. Conducts security checks of homes and businesses.
8. Makes presentations regarding law enforcement activities and crime prevention programs to school or community groups.
9. Assists in training new police officers and reserve officers in basic patrol functions and related duties.
10. Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge: Knowledge of modern methods, principles, techniques and practices of municipal law enforcement; knowledge of modern methods, principles, techniques and practices used in the prevention, investigation and suppression of criminal activities; knowledge of investigative and forensic techniques and procedures; knowledge of the rights of suspects and defendants; knowledge of the identification and preservation of physical evidence; knowledge of the behavior of criminals and causes underlying criminality.

Abilities: Ability to review a multitude of information related to a criminal incident; identify the key elements and develop a case which can be successfully prosecuted; to analyze stressful, hazardous or life-threatening situations quickly and objectively, and to determine the proper course of action; to read, understand and uniformly enforce laws, ordinances and rules and regulations; to cope with stressful situations firmly, tactfully and with respect for individual rights; to communicate effectively verbally and in writing; to write accurate reports of incidents; to use skill in the use and care of a variety of firearms and law enforcement equipment; to properly perform basic first aid; to perform hazardous tasks requiring strenuous physical exertion for limited periods of time; to recall facts and conditions observed while under severe physical and/or emotional stress; to testify clearly, cogently and with credibility in criminal court; to maintain harmonious working conditions with supervisors and co-workers.

Minimum Qualifications: To be considered for the recruitment process, applicants for the Entry Level Police Officer position must first pass a written exam and physical ability test through www.PublicSafetyTesting.com on March 1, 2025, or later. Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Must be able to pass, or have medical transcripts which demonstrate successful completion of, a LEOFF II medical examination or any other standard physical examination as any be required by the City of Tumwater or the State of Washington. Must be able to meet the requirements of the Rules and Regulations of the Civil Service Commission, which may encompass requirements regarding minimum age, education, physical strength and agility or other job-related qualifications. Must be able to successfully complete the Basic Academy presented by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission within fifteen months of date of hire.

Preferred Qualifications: One year of experience as a Police Officer with a municipal police department; certification in Basic Industrial First Aid by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries; Washington State Patrol Breathalyzer Certification; completion of an Emergency Vehicles Operators Course and Baton Training Course.

Special Requirements: A valid Washington State driver's license may be required.

Tumwater is a vibrant community, rich in history, community, and opportunity.

Nestled into the base of Puget Sound, Tumwater is the southern gateway to the Seattle/Tacoma metropolitan area. It’s just a little over an hour from the Pacific Ocean beaches, the Olympic Peninsula, and Mount Rainier with beautiful landscapes of prairie, river, estuary, and lush green trees. With its central location, Tumwater is a picturesque Northwest community with convenient access to arts, cultural and outdoor recreation.

Our vision is to create a future that is highly livable with diverse and engaged residents, a strong economy, and a healthy natural environment. Safe neighborhoods, quality schools, and a sense of community pride make Tumwater a great place to live, work, and play.

The City of Tumwater is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

The City of Tumwater is committed to wellness, safety, the environment and racial equity.