Police Officer - Entry Level - Testing Information Only

City of Lakewood (WA); Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Lakewood Police Department is inviting motivated individuals to begin a career in law enforcement as an Entry-Level Police Officer. This informational posting outlines testing through Public Safety Testing (PST) and the steps to complete the written exam and Physical Ability Test (PAT).

Successful candidates progress through a multi-phase Civil Service process, including interviews, background checks, and medical evaluations, with a focus on integrity and public service to Lakewood's

Qualifications

• Be at least 21 years of age.
• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Possess a valid Washington State driver's license.
• Meet Department driving and background standards.
• Satisfy applicable physical, medical, psychological, and pre-employment screening requirements.
• College‑level coursework, bilingual abilities, specialized law enforcement training, and other relevant experience are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Candidates may advance to oral board interviews, eligibility list certification, a Chief's panel interview, a comprehensive background investigation, polygraph examination, psychological evaluation, and medical examination.
• All candidates must meet applicable City of Lakewood Civil Service Rules and hiring standards.
• Advancement is competitive; PST testing does not guarantee an interview, placement on an eligibility list, or employment.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Washington State driver's license

College-level coursework

Bilingual abilities

Specialized law enforcement training

Job description

Start Your Law Enforcement Career with the Lakewood Police Department!

The City of Lakewood Police Department invites you to take the first step toward a rewarding career in law enforcement as an Entry-Level Police Officer.

We are seeking motivated, service-oriented individuals who are committed to public safety, building community trust, and making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve. Whether you are beginning your professional career or bringing experience from another field, the Lakewood Police Department offers an opportunity to serve a diverse community and build a meaningful career in public service.

Our Commitment to the Lakewood Community

The Lakewood Police Department is dedicated to providing professional and responsive law enforcement services while protecting life and property, upholding constitutional rights, and strengthening community relationships.

Guided by the values of integrity, dedication, teamwork, competence, courage, and respect, our officers work alongside residents, businesses, and community partners to address public safety concerns and enhance the quality of life in Lakewood.

We welcome individuals who share these values and demonstrate sound judgment, accountability, and respect for others.

Getting Started: Public Safety Testing (PST)

The Lakewood Police Department partners with Public Safety Testing (PST) to administer the required written examination and Physical Ability Test (PAT) for entry-level police officer candidates.

To begin the process:

1. Visit www.publicsafetytesting.com and create or access your candidate account.




2. Select City of Lakewood Police Department as an agency of choice.




3. Register for and complete the required written examination.




4. Schedule and successfully complete the Physical Ability Test (PAT).




5. Ensure your qualifying test results are available to the City of Lakewood through PST.

Candidates must successfully complete both examinations to be considered for advancement in Lakewood's selection process.

Information about testing dates, locations, registration, and examination standards is available through PST.

What to Expect After Testing

Candidates who meet the preliminary testing requirements may advance to additional phases of Lakewood's Civil Service selection process.

These phases may include oral board interviews, eligibility list certification, a Chief's panel interview, comprehensive background investigation, polygraph examination, psychological evaluation, and medical examination.

All candidates must meet applicable City of Lakewood Civil Service Rules and hiring standards. Advancement is competitive, and successful completion of PST testing does not guarantee an interview, placement on an eligibility list, or an offer of employment.

Minimum Qualifications

Individuals interested in becoming an Entry-Level Police Officer must meet applicable employment standards, including:

• Be at least 21 years of age.




• Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.




• Possess a valid Washington State driver's license as required for employment.




• Meet Department driving and background standards.




• Satisfy applicable physical, medical, psychological, and pre-employment screening requirements.

College-level coursework, bilingual abilities, specialized law enforcement training, and other relevant experience are desirable.

A Career Serving Lakewood

Located in Pierce County in the South Puget Sound region, Lakewood is a diverse community with established neighborhoods, beautiful lakes, parks, businesses, and strong connections to Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

Lakewood Police Officers serve through emergency response, criminal investigations, traffic safety, crime prevention, and community-oriented policing.

The Department offers opportunities for professional growth, specialized training, and career advancement. The City of Lakewood also provides competitive compensation and a comprehensive employee benefits package.

Learn more about the Department and opportunities to serve at www.joinlakewoodpd.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The City of Lakewood is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and experiences who share our commitment to professionalism, integrity, and public service.

Important Notice – Informational Posting Only

THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS FOR RECRUITMENT AND INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. IT IS NOT AN APPLICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITH THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD.

Interested candidates must begin the process through Public Safety Testing (PST). Any additional City application requirements or selection instructions will be communicated separately, as applicable.

We appreciate your interest in joining the Lakewood Police Department and encourage you to explore the opportunity to serve our community.