Police Officer - Entry Level

City of Bonney Lake; Bonney Lake (WA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Bonney Lake seeks entry-level police officers to join a dedicated team committed to community safety. Applicants must have a high school diploma and a valid driver's license. The role involves patrolling, enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, and participating in community programs. Strong candidates should possess effective communication and problem-solving skills, and be prepared for various work environments and physical demands.

Benefits

Premium pay for education and specialized roles

Opportunities for advancement

Qualifications

• Valid Washington Driver’s License or ability to obtain.
• Ability to read/write English.
• Legal status: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or DACA recipient.

Responsibilities

• Patrol, enforce laws, prevent crime, and ensure public safety.
• Respond to calls, document incidents, assist in investigations, and make arrests.
• Testify in court, maintain equipment, and perform related duties.

Skills

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Law enforcement tools

Personal computer

Vehicles

Job description

This is a continuous posting created to establish an eligibility list. Applications are reviewed throughout the year and will be contacted if they are moving forward in the process.

Entry level candidates must apply through Public Safety Testing to be considered for an entry level position with the City of Bonney Lake. Effective March 1, 2025, PST transitioned to a new written exam. To be considered for the City of Bonney Lake's new eligibility list, applicants will have to have passed this new written exam.

The City of Bonney Lake, located in East Pierce County, is one of the fastest growing cities in the county and Western Washington, with a population of just over 21,000 across 7 square miles. It offers a balanced lifestyle with opportunities for work, living, and recreation. The city is family-friendly, with affordable housing, shopping, trails, parks, lakes, an active community, and excellent schools. It features sweeping views of Mount Rainier from many vantage points.

The Police Department enjoys strong community support and is comprised of:

• 32 Commissioned Officers (Police Chief, 2 Assistant Chiefs, 5 Sergeants, 25 Police Officers)
• 7.5 Non-Commissioned Officers (including Community Service Officers, Records Clerks, Administrative Assistant, Child Passenger Safety Manager)

Beyond regular duties, officers have opportunities for ancillary roles such as Marine Services, Investigations, Tactical Response, Field Training, Traffic Enforcement, Public Information, School Resource, Collision Response, TAC, Firearms Instruction, among others.

Premium Pay

In addition to competitive wages and benefits, premiums include:

• Education: 2.5% for AA/AS, 5% for BA/BS
• Detective: 5%
• Field Training Officer: 5%
• Hazardous Duty: 2.5%, Motorcycle: 5%
• Longevity increases based on years of service, up to 4%

General Purpose

Perform a variety of police duties including protecting life and property, enforcing laws, crime prevention, investigation, maintaining order, and community engagement. Work is performed independently and in teams, following guidelines and exercising judgment. Contribute to the department’s mission and vision.

Supervision

Reports to: Police Sergeant. May work with new members, reserve officers, or volunteers as assigned.

Essential Functions

• Maintain knowledge of laws, policies, and procedures.
• Patrol, enforce laws, prevent crime, and ensure public safety.
• Respond to calls, document incidents, assist in investigations, and make arrests when necessary.
• Handle complaints, conduct investigations, and process evidence.
• Ensure compliance with legal and departmental standards.
• Participate in crime prevention and community programs.
• Respond to emergencies, provide first aid, and manage traffic and crowd control.
• Testify in court, maintain equipment, and perform related duties.

Education, Experience and License Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid Washington Driver’s License or ability to obtain
• Ability to read/write English
• Legal status: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or DACA recipient
• At least 21 years old at hire
• Pass entrance exams, medical, and background checks

Competency Requirements

• Knowledge of laws, police methods, evidence procedures
• Ability to operate police equipment and vehicle
• Effective communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability skills

Physical Demands

• Mobility within facilities, community, and vehicles
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and restrain individuals

Work Environment

• Indoor and outdoor work in various weather conditions
• Shift work including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Potential exposure to hazards and combative individuals

Reasonable accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities.

Tools and Equipment Used

Personal computer, vehicles, law enforcement tools.

Core Values

• Professionalism, Service, Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Teamwork