Police Officer - Entry

Port of Portland; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 70,268 - 95,068; Full time

Job summary

The Port of Portland Police Department is seeking Police Officer – Entry candidates to join a professional, growing team. Officers will serve as state-certified peace officers at Portland International Airport (PDX) and the surrounding area, protecting one of the region’s most visible and heavily traveled public spaces.

Compensation is determined by the collective bargaining agreement with base hourly rates starting at $39.744, corresponding to an annual salary of $82,667.52.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Eligible for police officer certification in Oregon.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Valid driver's license (Oregon or Washington) before hire, or ability to obtain.
• Ability to obtain security clearance for unescorted airport access.
• Able to meet physical performance standards and stamina.
• Fluent in English for instructions and reporting.
• Able to pass written and physical tests and pre-employment screenings.

Responsibilities

• Protect life and property at the airport and surrounding areas.
• Patrol by vehicle, bicycle, or on foot to deter crime and detect activity.
• Respond to reports of crimes and act appropriately.
• Maintain information through contacts and intelligence on criminal activity.
• Enforce statutes and ordinances, issue citations or arrest as needed.
• Process warrants, collect evidence, and file detailed reports.
• Provide public service and engage with airport tenants and stakeholders.

Skills

English proficiency

Physical fitness

Background checks

Criminal justice knowledge

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Position

Port of Portland Police Department is seeking high‑quality Police Officer – Entry candidates to join a professional, growing team. Officers will serve as state‑certified peace officers at Portland International Airport (PDX) and the surrounding area, protecting one of the region’s most visible and heavily traveled public spaces.

Selection Process

• Front Line National Written Exam
• Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT)
• Application Materials & Qualification Review
• Screening Interview
• Panel Interview
• Background Investigation
• Psychological Examination
• Executive Interview (discussion of background and psychological evaluation)
• Medical Examination
• Pre‑employment Drug Screening

Essential Job Duties

• Public Safety & Crime Prevention
  • Protect life and property at PDX.
  • Patrol designated areas by vehicle, bicycle, or on foot to deter crime and detect criminal activity.
  • Respond to reports of possible crimes and act appropriately.
  • Develop contacts to gather information and maintain intelligence on criminal activity and suspects.
• Law Enforcement & Legal Compliance
  • Enforce state statutes, port, and city ordinances; issue citations or make arrests as appropriate.
  • Serve search and arrest warrants, collect evidence, and complete detailed incident reports.
  • Respond to traffic and other accidents; administer first aid, interview witnesses, and complete accident reports.
  • Communicate in person, via radio, and through computer systems to broadcast and receive information.
  • Maintain clear documentation and reporting for law enforcement and airport security operations.
• Public Service & Community Engagement
  • Ensure public convenience and well‑being within airport facilities; address inquiries, resolve complaints, and provide personal security services as assigned.
  • Provide community services, presentations, and respond promptly to the needs of airport tenants, customers, and stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Eligible for police officer certification in the State of Oregon.
• U.S. citizenship.
• Valid driver’s license (Oregon or Washington) prior to hire, or ability to obtain.
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance for unescorted access to secured airport areas.
• Ability to meet physical performance expectations, including strength and stamina requirements.
• Proficiency in understanding and following oral and written instructions in English.
• Ability to pass required testing, including the written exam and physical abilities test.
• Ability to successfully complete all pre‑employment screenings (background investigation, psychological evaluation, drug test, and medical exam).

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in criminal justice, social science, or a related field.
• Experience in law enforcement, corrections, security, or a related field.

Salary

Compensation is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement and years of continuous service. Base hourly rates start at $39.744, corresponding to an annual salary of $82,667.52. Increments are made at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5+ years of service. Officers may also qualify for incentive or premium pay for certifications and special skills (e.g., language proficiency, DPSST intermediate or advanced certifications).

Equal Opportunity

The Port of Portland is an equal opportunity employer. Positions are open to all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. Employment decisions are made in compliance with all applicable laws.

Veteran Preference

Qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans’ preference under Oregon law. Veterans should submit the required documentation during the application process.

Background Checks and Drug Testing

The Port of Portland will conduct background checks and/or drug tests for positions where such tests are required by regulation or for other safety‑sensitive positions.

ADA Accommodation

Accommodations will be considered for applicants with a qualifying disability. Contact Human Resources at 503‑415‑6690 or email [e-mail] for assistance.

Contact

For questions about this position, contact [e-mail].