Police Officer - Lateral

Washougal; Washougal (WA); On-site; USD 36,000 - 104,000; Full time

Job summary

Washougal is seeking a full-time law enforcement officer to enforce local, state, and federal laws within the Washougal area. The role requires maintaining discipline, ethical conduct, and strong communication skills while handling emergencies and public interactions.

Applicants must be at least 21, a US citizen or eligible resident, with a completed state academy and valid driver’s license; background checks and ongoing certifications are required for employment.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old with US citizenship or authorized resident status.
• Ability to pass a thorough background check including polygraph and medical exam.
• Must have completed a state certified law enforcement academy or BLEEA if applicable.
• Valid driver's license and firearms qualification maintained.

Responsibilities

• Uphold laws governing traffic, drug possession, and behavior.
• Respond to emergencies with calm, quick decision-making.
• Engage with the public tactfully and communicate effectively under pressure.
• Operate weapons and electronic devices as required for duty.

Skills

Communication

Problem solving

Teamwork

Leadership

Ethics

English proficiency

Observation

Attention to detail

Physical fitness

Discretion

Education

High School diploma or Equivalent

Law enforcement academy certification

Background check clearance

Tools

Basic computer skills

Job description

Qualifications

Job Specific Skills and Knowledge:

• Ability to maintain self-discipline and credibility through honest and ethical behavior and must have strong skills and abilities in a wide variety of areas including communication, creative problem solving, community service, teamwork and leadership.
• Knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local laws governing traffic, drug possession and use, and general behavior
• Understanding of City landmarks and geography; understanding of general geography of neighboring cities/counties
• Basic computer skills for report writing
• Safe and efficient driving skills
• Excellent physical condition
• Excellent analytical and investigative skills; attention to detail
• Ability to efficiently and effectively use firearms
• Ability to operate various electronic devices including two-way radios, tasers, radar speed units, cameras, etc.
• Ability to physically subdue violent or fleeing criminals
• Ability to remain calm, think clearly, and act quickly in emergency situations
• Ability to use courage and discernment in dangerous situations
• Ability to use tact and communicate effectively with the public and coworkers
• Ability to communicate and/or negotiate with dangerous, angry, and/or frightened individuals

Mental Activities:

• Interpersonal, teamwork, and customer service skills
• Ability to speak, understand, read, and write English
• Problem analysis and decision making skills
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and/or independent action
• Ability to exercise discretion in sensitive or confidential matters
• Mentoring skills

Physical Activities:

• Frequent standing, walking, stooping, repetitive motions of the feet, reaching, sitting, bending, kneeling, handling, feeling
• Continuous talking, hearing, fingering, repetitive motions of the hands and wrists, grasping
• Occasional running, fighting, wrestling
• Ability to push, pull, lift, and carry at least 80 pounds
• Ability to drive various automobiles, off-road vehicles, bicycles
• Ability to operate various weapons

Special Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Must be at least 21 years of age. No maximum age limit.
• Must be a United States Citizen or authorized resident alien
• Must be able to complete a thorough background check which includes a psychological and medical examination, polygraph and pre-employment drug screening
• High School diploma or Equivalent
• Valid driver's license
• Completed a state certified law enforcement academy. For Lateral officers that received accreditation outside WA state will be required to attend an 80-hour Basic Law Enforcement Equivalency Academy (BLEEA) through the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC)
• Received a final offer of employment, or be working as a full-time, commissioned law enforcement officer within the last 24 months.
• Maintained any mandated certification such as firearms qualification and first aid/CPR

Job ID 2026-2 Category Full TIme Positions Status Open Salary 2026:1 Year: $2,963.582 Years: $8,203.644 Years: $8,702.556 Years: $8,693.06 Posted January 2, 2026 Closing Open Until Filled