Police Officer - Entry Level
Apply NowCompany: City of Lakewood, WA
Location: Lakewood, WA 98499
Description:
Salary : $7,422.00 - $9,867.00 Monthly
Location : Lakewood, WA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 2025 Entry Police Officer
Department: Police
Opening Date: 02/24/2025
JOB SUMMARY
SUBMIT AN ONLINE APPLICATION *AFTER* PASSING THE WRITTEN AND PHYSICAL ABILITY TESTS CONDUCTED BY PUBLIC SAFETY TESTING (www.publicsafetytesting.com) and MAKE SURE TO SELECT THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD AS YOUR AGENCY OF CHOICE IN YOUR PROFILE. Once you pass both the written and PAT with Public Safety Testing, you'll be advanced to the elgilbe list for interview and hiring consideration.
Under the direction of a Police Sergeant, perform general duty police work involving resolution of citizen and public safety concerns; the protection of life and property; the enforcement of laws and ordinances; the prevention and investigation of crimes; and maintenance of order.
The incumbent in this position: will help create and nurture a community oriented public safety department as envisioned by the City Council and set forth in the department vision and values statement; will respond positively to citizen concerns, encourage citizen involvement and the development of creative approaches to public safety; will participate in the coordination of Police Department efforts to impact perceived and actual crime problems; and will provide feedback to the department on community concerns and initiatives.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Essential duties may include but are not limited to the following
Attendance:
Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
May be subject to extended work hours and call back outside of normal shift hours or days.
Conduct Police Investigations:
Act as primary investigator of all crimes occurring within assigned areas during duty hours; make on scene arrests when warranted; protect crime scenes in situations warranting additional investigation; use varying and justifiable degrees of physical force to overcome resisting suspects and to protect self and others from injury.
Investigate and/or handle complaints involving family disputes, juvenile disputes, mentally disabled persons.
Investigate traffic accidents in various weather and traffic conditions; physically direct traffic; place temporary traffic control devices such as portable stop signs, barricades and other forms of directional signing as needed.
Knowledge of Regulatory Compliance/Laws:
Provide the public with general information on laws and ordinances; explain process of filing a formal complaint; direct citizens to appropriate authorities as necessary, reassure the public regarding concerns with safety.
Attend meetings, seminars and other training classes to maintain current knowledge of criminal and civil laws, as well as technical skills to remain proficient in the performance of duty; may train other employees.
Primary Duties:
Patrol designated area of city in police vehicle, on foot patrol, bicycle patrol and/or other conveyances on an assigned shift; patrol business and residential districts to provide an element of safety by obvious visibility; look for crimes or potential crimes or hazardous situations in progress.
Respond to emergency and routine calls for service.
Perform computer inquiries from the patrol vehicle and stationary terminals.
Serve and enforce civil process issued by the courts to include restraining orders, orders for protection, no contact orders, anti-harassment orders and subpoenas; serve arrest and search warrants.
Pursue fleeing suspects on foot and in vehicles; perform rescue and pursuit operations.
Provide first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons.
Take immediate action to remedy hazards and protect life and property.
Stop traffic violators and take appropriate remedial action; identify suspicious individuals and question their activities.
Apprehend violators or offenders of the law; in situations where lawful arrests are resisted, the officer must be prepared and able at times through training, judgment and high levels of physical exertion to use justifiable levels of force to overcome the resistance and protect citizens, themselves, and fellow officers.
Tactfully diffuse any verbal abuse which may occur in the course of performing work assignments. Endure verbal and mental abuse when confronted with hostile views and opinions of suspects and others encountered in an antagonistic environment.
Testify in court hearings.
Search for lost or wanted persons over varying terrain and conditions for extended periods of time.
Perform searches of people, vehicles, buildings and large outdoor areas which may involve feeling and detecting objects, walking for long periods of time, detaining people and stopping suspicious vehicles and persons.
Determine when a lawful search or arrest can or should be attempted; determine when and to what extent physical forces should be used, as governed by law and department regulations.
Read, review, interpret, serve and enforce various court orders.
Develop knowledge about known offenders and businesses possibly involved in or promoting criminal activity; correlate records of such criminal activity.
Recover lost or stolen property; lift and move commonly recovered items such as bicycles, televisions, stereo components, tools, automotive wheels and parts, and small safes without destroying or damaging items.
Assist in administrative duties such as coordinating multi-department response to persistent criminal activity, planning police/community relations events, and training, leading or coordinating non-sworn work units such as Parking Enforcement.
Prepare affidavits for search warrants; interview witnesses and suspects. Develop and use informants and other investigative aids; appear in court to present evidence and to testify against persons accused of crimes.
Provide assistance and referrals for domestic violence cases, indigent persons and stranded individuals.
Prepare material to present at training sessions for police officers or others, including schools, businesses, private citizen groups, etc.
Relationship Building/Management:
Attend neighborhood meetings and interact with community members to solve neighborhood problems, improve community and police relations and build public trust.
Report Writing:
Document incidents and actions by writing case reports and field interview cards; maintain daily logs and prepare other related reports.
Safety:
Actively champion a culture of and commitment to workplace safety through everyday actions and leadership.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Requires high school graduation or equivalent. College-level coursework in law enforcement or a related field, bilingual capability, and specialized law enforcement training are highly desirable.
Must be at least 21 years of age, possess a valid Washington driver's license and satisfactory driving record; meet department standards of physical ability; submit to thorough employment reference and background investigation; submit to psychological and general medical evaluation; and submit to FBI record check and polygraph examination.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
KNOWLEDGE OF:
City ordinances and applicable state and federal laws and WAC rules.
Department policy and procedure.
Modern police methods and procedures.
Criminal behavior and causes of underlying criminality and social, psychological and physical needs of criminals/inmates.
Geography and street locations.
Laws of arrest, search and seizure including legal ramifications of action taken.
Principles of crime and accident investigation.
Basic techniques of crime prevention and criminal investigation.
Identification and preservation of evidence.
First aid principles and application.
Organization and planning.
ABILITY TO:
Use and care for firearms.
Operate police vehicle and other police equipment.
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
Analyze dangerous situations rapidly and accurately.
Maintain control in stressful, hostile and hazardous conditions.
Enforce all applicable laws.
Prepare clear and concise reports.
Act without direct supervision and exercise independent judgment.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Communicate effectively in English with co-workers, superiors and the general public, both orally and in writing.
Interact effectively with individuals, groups and organizations representing a wide diversity of ethnicities, cultures, opinions and beliefs.
Cope with situations firmly, courteously and tactfully, and with respect to the rights of others.
Demonstrate the knowledge of and adherence to a high standard of personal and professional ethics.
Effectively deal with violations of rules, policies, and procedures on an impartial basis.
Maintain standards of physical fitness.
Recognize when the application of deadly force is appropriate under state law and department policy.
Employ deadly force in order to protect human life.
Operate a motor vehicle, computers/keyboards, B.A.C. verifier machines, telephones, police radios, mobile data terminals, tape recorders, firearms, batons, handcuffs and other police related equipment.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work includes indoor and outdoor environment; subject to adverse weather conditions and possible verbal abuse; employees may be assigned to work evening and weekend hours, and are subject to call out. The performance of police duties requires above average physical endurance in running, climbing and lifting, as well as good balance, hearing and vision. Incumbents in this classification may be exposed to gunfire, toxic chemicals, traffic hazards, occasional driving at high speeds, communicable diseases and physical abuse from hostile or disoriented individuals.
PHYSICAL ABILITIES
Constant Demands: Seeing, hearing, and speech abilities to perform essential functions and communicate with others. Requires mental acuity to ensure thorough mental analysis of situations in a fast-paced environment. Walking standing, driving lifting; carrying; climbing pushing/pulling; bending and twisting at the waist; crouching; kneeling/squatting; reaching (below the knees, knees to shoulder, and above the shoulders); foot controls.
Frequent Demands: Repetitive hand and arm motion; handling/grasping; fine finger manipulation; talking; viewing computer screen; using phone communications: sitting for extended periods of time.
HAZARDS
Exposure to physical hazard may occur when interacting with hostile participants with potential for violence.
FLSA DESIGNATION
Non-Exempt, eligible for overtime.
UNION AFFILIATION
Lakewood Police Independent Guild
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The City of Lakewood is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages, supports, and celebrates respect, empowerment, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for all. We welcome your contributions.
HIRING PROCESS SUMMARY
- Applicants must take and pass the written (minimum score of 80%) and physical ability (scored as pass or fail) test with Public Safety Testing at ; Candidates must pass both tests to continue in the process.
- A City of Lakewood employment application must be completed online at Participation in the process is limited to the first 100 qualified applicants who complete an online application.
- Successful candidates will be ranked on an initial selection list based on written exam scores.
- Top scoring candidates will be invited to participate in oral board interviews.
- A minimum passing score of 70% is required on the oral board interview.
- Successful candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list by a combination of scores from the written exam and the oral board interview.
- The written exam and the oral board interview are weighted equally.
- As applicable, veterans' scoring criteria and education preference percentages will be applied to the combined written and oral board interview scores.
- The highest scoring candidates will proceed to a Chief's panel interview. Any offer of employment will be conditional upon successfully passing a thorough background investigation, including (but not limited to) a polygraph, psychological evaluation, and a physical examination which includes drug testing.
HIRING STANDARDS
Applicants must review the Driving and Drug Usage Standards and self-screen for automatic disqualifiers before completing the supplemental questionnaire.
Driving Standards
The following driving standards represent the maximum allowable violations of driving laws and must not exceed six (6) total points in the last 36 months. As part of the background investigation, each candidate's driving record will be obtained and reviewed. Other driving offenses not listed here will be assessed point values on a case by case basis.
Points Driving Violations
8 Revocation of driver's license
8 Denial of issuance of driver's license
8 Negligent homicide
8 Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
8 Reckless driving (involving an accident)
6 Reckless driving (no accident involved)
6 Negligent driving (involving an accident)
4 Negligent driving (no accident involved)
8 Hit and run (attended)
6 Hit and run (unattended)
4 Driving while driver's license suspended
Speeding in excess of the posted limit
2 0-14 over
3 15-19 over
6 20-25 over
8 over 26
4 Convictions or forfeitures (paid fines) for other moving violations involving an
accident
2 Convictions or forfeitures for other moving violations each violation not involving an accident
Drug Usage Standards
It is common for candidates to have experimented with or casually used substances in their past. The following standards reflect the maximum allowable uses of these illegal drugs. Any uses over the allowed standard are automatically disqualifying. Each category mentioned below includes all derivatives of these controlled substances.
Drug Free: With the exception of marijuana, each applicant must be drug free for a minimum of three (3) years prior to application. Your stated past drug usage will be confirmed by a background investigation and a polygraph examination.
Marijuana
No use within the last twelve (12) months
Prescription Medication
Patterns of illegal use of obtaining prescriptions under false pretenses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Aerosols
Illegal use of aerosols will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Club Drugs
No use within the last three (3) years
Steroids
Use within the last five (5) years will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Stimulants/Amphetamines, Cocaine, Hallucinogens, and Opiates
No use for the last five (5) years
- No illegal drug use while employed in a criminal justice capacity (including volunteer, intern, Explorer and Reserve Officer Positions)
- Illegal manufacturing, cultivating or selling of ANY drug, including marijuana, will be carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Any other history or pattern of drug use outside these standards will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Note: While this list is not all-inclusive, use of any controlled substance not listed here will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Automatic Disqualifiers - applicants will be disqualified for any of the following:
Criminal Activity
- Any adult felony conviction.
- Adult misdemeanor convictions of moral turpitude (any conviction will be carefully reviewed).
- Been convicted of any crime under a domestic violence statute.
Employment
- Withdrawn from consideration for any (law enforcement/fire/corrections/dispatch) employment because of the following reasons: Untruthfulness.
- Been dishonorably discharged from the United States armed forces.
- Lied during any stage of the hiring process.
- Falsified his or her application, personal history questionnaire, or any other forms during the hiring process.
- Previous revocation or denial of (CJTC/POST) certified status or suspension of current (CJTC/POST) certified status.
Financial
- Failure to pay income tax or child support.
**Current credit accounts or unresolved accounts in collection will be carefully reviewed.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
for
LAKEWOOD POLICE INDEPENDENT GUILD MEMBERS
This is a summary of benefits and is not meant to be all inclusive. Please refer to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild collective bargaining agreement, City policies and plan booklets for details.
SALARY INCREASES
Step increases are granted upon completion of 12 months of actual service until the maximum of the salary range is reached. A maximum of 10% of professional development pay is available to qualifying employees.
HOLIDAYS
Employees accrue and take holidays on a basis equivalent to the employee's regularly assigned shift hours. The following are recognized holidays:
New Year's Day
M.L. King, Jr. Day
Presidents' Day
Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veterans' Day
Thanksgiving
the day after Thanksgiving
Christmas day
Employees regularly scheduled to work 5 8-hour days will accrue one floating holiday on their anniversary date.
ANNUAL LEAVE (PTO - PAID TIME OFF)
Annual leave is a benefit granted to employees to continue normal compensation during approved absences and is intended to encompass both vacation and medical leave. Annual leave is not available during the first 60 days of employment except for illness. Leave may be accumulated for succeeding years with a maximum accrual of 1400 hours; however, at the end of the calendar year, the amount carried forward into the new year shall not exceed 1200 hours.
Accrual Rate:
During the 1st year 216 hours of leave per year
After the 1st thru 4th year 240 hours of leave per year
After the 4th thru 9th year 264 hours of leave per year
After the 9th thru 14th year 288 hours of leave per year
After the 14th thru 20th year 312 hours of leave per year
After the 20th year 336 hours of leave per year
SHARED LEAVE
If an employee exhausts all paid leave, they may be eligible to receive donated leave to cover an unpaid absence caused by illness or injury.
MILITARY LEAVE
Employees who are members of any federal military reserve unit or the Washington National Guard will receive up to twenty-one working days of paid leave during each year beginning October 1 and ending September 30, while engaged in active training duty or active duty.
The City will maintain continuity of health benefits to employees' families when employees are ordered to involuntary active military duty. Military differential pay is available during active military duty of more than 30 days and for no longer than 24 months.
JURY DUTY LEAVE
Employees will be paid their regular compensation while serving on jury duty provided they forfeit the juror's daily stipend to the City.
RETIREMENT PLAN
Employees and the City make contributions to the Washington Department of Retirement Systems' LEOFF Plan.
Under Social Security's Government Pension Offset, any Social Security spouse's or widow's or widower's benefits you may be entitled to will be reduced based on any pension you receive from the City's retirement plan.
SOCIAL SECURITY REPLACEMENT
In lieu of Social Security, the City provides an alternative plan through the ICMA Retirement Corporation. The employee contributes 6.20% and the City contributes 4.77% of the employee's salary. The employee's investment choices range from conservative (low risk) to aggressive (high risk) opportunities. Employees are immediately 100% vested in the plan.
Under Social Security's Windfall Elimination Provision, any Social Security retirement or disability benefits you may be entitled to will be reduced based on any pension you receive from this replacement plan.
VOLUNTARY 457 DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN
Participation in a 457 deferred compensation plan is available to employees through payroll deduction. This is an optional investment program offered through the ICMA Retirement Corporation or Washington Department of Retirement Systems. The City matches an employee's contribution up to 6% of the employee's base monthly pay rate.
VOLUNTARY FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT
The Flexible Spending Account (IRS Section 125) is an optional tax savings program which is offered to employees annually. It allows employees to reduce taxable income by using part of their salary on a pretax basis to pay for out of pocket health care expenses and dependent care costs.
The effective date of health insurance is the first day of the month following hire.
MEDICAL INSURANCE
During the first year of employment, employees are required to enroll in the High Deductible Health Plan unless precluded by a documented, ongoing medical condition or if covered by insurance outside of the City.
Three medical plans are offered to employees and dependents through the Association of Washington Cities (AWC):
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is paid for by the City, and is a voluntary, confidential resource available to employees, dependents and household members. The EAP provides professional counseling assistance in addressing a variety of concerns ranging from substance abuse to relationship issues.
VISION INSURANCE
A separate vision plan provides for annual eye examinations for employees and dependents. A $25 deductible benefit is also provided for lenses, frames and contact lenses.
DENTAL INSURANCE
Washington Dental Service (WDS) Plan E insurance is provided through AWC. The City pays the entire premium cost for employees and dependents. This is an incentive based plan - 70% to 100% of Class I and Class II benefits (routine exams, basic cleaning, x-rays, fillings, etc.) are covered. Class III benefits (crowns, inlays and onlays) are paid at 50%. The dental plan pays a maximum of $2,000 per individual annually for covered benefits per incentive period (a calendar year). A separate orthodontia plan provides a one time orthodontia benefit of $1,000 for eligible children.
SURVIVOR INCOME LIFE INSURANCE*
A monthly survivor income benefit is paid to an employee's eligible spouse and children upon the employee's death. Prior to any reduction for Social Security survivor's benefits, a benefit amount equal to 30% of the employee's insured earnings is paid to the spouse or children, and 60% is paid if both spouse and children survive.
LIFE/ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE*
The City provides basic life insurance/accidental death and dismemberment insurance through Standard Insurance. The basic life insurance benefit is equal to the employee's annual salary rounded up to the next thousand to a maximum of $100,000. An additional life insurance benefit is provided through the Washington State Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). The benefit is $15,000 for loss of life and $85,000 for accidental death and dismemberment.
DISABILITY INSURANCE*
Short and long term disability insurance is provided through the Washington State FOP. The plan has a 29 day elimination period for off the job injuries and a 180 day elimination period for on the job injuries. The benefit amount is 66.67% of regular pay, to a maximum benefit of $7,500 monthly.
*The effective date is the first of the month following hire, unless an employee is hired on the first day of the month, in which case the coverage is effective immediately.
EMPLOYEES MAY ELECT TO ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING SELF PAY PLANS:
SUPPLEMENTAL LIFE INSURANCE
Employees may apply for $30,000 to $300,000 in supplemental term life insurance coverage. Spouses may also be insured. Premiums are paid entirely by the employee.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY (STD)
Short term disability insurance provides benefit payments to help replace lost income when an employee is disabled due to a non-occupational accident or illness. Pregnancy or its complications are covered provided enrollment in STD insurance is prior to conception. Benefits are payable for a maximum of 13 weeks. This benefit is offered to employees at the time of hire and annually thereafter.
ADDITIONAL INSURANCE PLANS
Additional insurance plans are available to employees through AFLAC, such as accident/disability, cancer, STD, dental and hospital intensive care.
01
Have you completed and passed the Written Exam with Public Safety Testing? * If you have not, STOP. Applicants are required to pass the Written Exam w/PST. We cannot process your application until this step is completed.
02
What was your score on Public Safety's Written Examination?
03
Did you select The City of Lakewood during your Public Safety Testing process? **We cannot process your application if this step is not done**
04
Lakewood Police Department standards require that you answer TRUE to questions 4-20 in order to be considered for this position. I understand that I will be disqualified from this process if I answer NO to any of the questions numbered 1-17.
05
I will cooperate in a background investigation by providing complete and truthful information to the investigators.
06
I will be completely truthful in a polygraph examination.
07
I have read and understand the automatic disqualifiers for driving, drug usage, and criminal activity as required by the Lakewood Police Department Hiring Standards (accessible by link on the job summary page, under education/experience requirements) and I remain eligible for hire.
08
I have obtained or can obtain a Washington State driver's license.
09
I have not been convicted of a felony as an adult (18 years of age or older).
10
I do not have a history of committing illegal acts which could undermine the public confidence in a police officer or the City of Lakewood Police Department. As a result, I believe I can pass an investigation which thoroughly covers my personal history including ANY illegal behaviors (misdemeanors or acts for which I was not caught), immoral acts, my work history, honesty and integrity.
11
I am able to perform the essential functions of police work with or without reasonable accomodation; essential job functions include running, subduing and detaining fleeing suspects, driving a vehicle, shooting a firearm, verbal communication with the public and writing reports.
12
I am willing to undergo a thorough medical examination.
13
I am willing to be evaluated by a psychologist.
14
I am willing to carry and use a firearm.
15
I will work any shift, including nights, weekends and holidays, as assigned by my superiors.
16
I can read, write, and speak the English language, so as to be easily understood by others.
17
I have never withdrawn my application from consideration for any (law enforcement/fire/corrections/dispatch) employment because of untruthfulness.
18
I have never been dishonorably discharged from any United States armed forces.
19
I have never previously been revoked or denied a CJTC/POST certified status, or have never had a current suspended CJTC/POST certified status.
20
I am at least 21 years of age.
21
Have you completed and passed the Physical Ability Test with Public Safety Testing? ** If you have not, STOP. Applicants are required to pass the Written Exam w/PST. We cannot process your application until this step is completed.
Required Question
Location : Lakewood, WA
Job Type: Regular Full-Time
Job Number: 2025 Entry Police Officer
Department: Police
Opening Date: 02/24/2025
JOB SUMMARY
SUBMIT AN ONLINE APPLICATION *AFTER* PASSING THE WRITTEN AND PHYSICAL ABILITY TESTS CONDUCTED BY PUBLIC SAFETY TESTING (www.publicsafetytesting.com) and MAKE SURE TO SELECT THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD AS YOUR AGENCY OF CHOICE IN YOUR PROFILE. Once you pass both the written and PAT with Public Safety Testing, you'll be advanced to the elgilbe list for interview and hiring consideration.
Under the direction of a Police Sergeant, perform general duty police work involving resolution of citizen and public safety concerns; the protection of life and property; the enforcement of laws and ordinances; the prevention and investigation of crimes; and maintenance of order.
The incumbent in this position: will help create and nurture a community oriented public safety department as envisioned by the City Council and set forth in the department vision and values statement; will respond positively to citizen concerns, encourage citizen involvement and the development of creative approaches to public safety; will participate in the coordination of Police Department efforts to impact perceived and actual crime problems; and will provide feedback to the department on community concerns and initiatives.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Essential duties may include but are not limited to the following
Attendance:
Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
May be subject to extended work hours and call back outside of normal shift hours or days.
Conduct Police Investigations:
Act as primary investigator of all crimes occurring within assigned areas during duty hours; make on scene arrests when warranted; protect crime scenes in situations warranting additional investigation; use varying and justifiable degrees of physical force to overcome resisting suspects and to protect self and others from injury.
Investigate and/or handle complaints involving family disputes, juvenile disputes, mentally disabled persons.
Investigate traffic accidents in various weather and traffic conditions; physically direct traffic; place temporary traffic control devices such as portable stop signs, barricades and other forms of directional signing as needed.
Knowledge of Regulatory Compliance/Laws:
Provide the public with general information on laws and ordinances; explain process of filing a formal complaint; direct citizens to appropriate authorities as necessary, reassure the public regarding concerns with safety.
Attend meetings, seminars and other training classes to maintain current knowledge of criminal and civil laws, as well as technical skills to remain proficient in the performance of duty; may train other employees.
Primary Duties:
Patrol designated area of city in police vehicle, on foot patrol, bicycle patrol and/or other conveyances on an assigned shift; patrol business and residential districts to provide an element of safety by obvious visibility; look for crimes or potential crimes or hazardous situations in progress.
Respond to emergency and routine calls for service.
Perform computer inquiries from the patrol vehicle and stationary terminals.
Serve and enforce civil process issued by the courts to include restraining orders, orders for protection, no contact orders, anti-harassment orders and subpoenas; serve arrest and search warrants.
Pursue fleeing suspects on foot and in vehicles; perform rescue and pursuit operations.
Provide first aid cardiopulmonary resuscitation to injured persons.
Take immediate action to remedy hazards and protect life and property.
Stop traffic violators and take appropriate remedial action; identify suspicious individuals and question their activities.
Apprehend violators or offenders of the law; in situations where lawful arrests are resisted, the officer must be prepared and able at times through training, judgment and high levels of physical exertion to use justifiable levels of force to overcome the resistance and protect citizens, themselves, and fellow officers.
Tactfully diffuse any verbal abuse which may occur in the course of performing work assignments. Endure verbal and mental abuse when confronted with hostile views and opinions of suspects and others encountered in an antagonistic environment.
Testify in court hearings.
Search for lost or wanted persons over varying terrain and conditions for extended periods of time.
Perform searches of people, vehicles, buildings and large outdoor areas which may involve feeling and detecting objects, walking for long periods of time, detaining people and stopping suspicious vehicles and persons.
Determine when a lawful search or arrest can or should be attempted; determine when and to what extent physical forces should be used, as governed by law and department regulations.
Read, review, interpret, serve and enforce various court orders.
Develop knowledge about known offenders and businesses possibly involved in or promoting criminal activity; correlate records of such criminal activity.
Recover lost or stolen property; lift and move commonly recovered items such as bicycles, televisions, stereo components, tools, automotive wheels and parts, and small safes without destroying or damaging items.
Assist in administrative duties such as coordinating multi-department response to persistent criminal activity, planning police/community relations events, and training, leading or coordinating non-sworn work units such as Parking Enforcement.
Prepare affidavits for search warrants; interview witnesses and suspects. Develop and use informants and other investigative aids; appear in court to present evidence and to testify against persons accused of crimes.
Provide assistance and referrals for domestic violence cases, indigent persons and stranded individuals.
Prepare material to present at training sessions for police officers or others, including schools, businesses, private citizen groups, etc.
Relationship Building/Management:
Attend neighborhood meetings and interact with community members to solve neighborhood problems, improve community and police relations and build public trust.
Report Writing:
Document incidents and actions by writing case reports and field interview cards; maintain daily logs and prepare other related reports.
Safety:
Actively champion a culture of and commitment to workplace safety through everyday actions and leadership.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Requires high school graduation or equivalent. College-level coursework in law enforcement or a related field, bilingual capability, and specialized law enforcement training are highly desirable.
Must be at least 21 years of age, possess a valid Washington driver's license and satisfactory driving record; meet department standards of physical ability; submit to thorough employment reference and background investigation; submit to psychological and general medical evaluation; and submit to FBI record check and polygraph examination.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
KNOWLEDGE OF:
City ordinances and applicable state and federal laws and WAC rules.
Department policy and procedure.
Modern police methods and procedures.
Criminal behavior and causes of underlying criminality and social, psychological and physical needs of criminals/inmates.
Geography and street locations.
Laws of arrest, search and seizure including legal ramifications of action taken.
Principles of crime and accident investigation.
Basic techniques of crime prevention and criminal investigation.
Identification and preservation of evidence.
First aid principles and application.
Organization and planning.
ABILITY TO:
Use and care for firearms.
Operate police vehicle and other police equipment.
Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
Analyze dangerous situations rapidly and accurately.
Maintain control in stressful, hostile and hazardous conditions.
Enforce all applicable laws.
Prepare clear and concise reports.
Act without direct supervision and exercise independent judgment.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Communicate effectively in English with co-workers, superiors and the general public, both orally and in writing.
Interact effectively with individuals, groups and organizations representing a wide diversity of ethnicities, cultures, opinions and beliefs.
Cope with situations firmly, courteously and tactfully, and with respect to the rights of others.
Demonstrate the knowledge of and adherence to a high standard of personal and professional ethics.
Effectively deal with violations of rules, policies, and procedures on an impartial basis.
Maintain standards of physical fitness.
Recognize when the application of deadly force is appropriate under state law and department policy.
Employ deadly force in order to protect human life.
Operate a motor vehicle, computers/keyboards, B.A.C. verifier machines, telephones, police radios, mobile data terminals, tape recorders, firearms, batons, handcuffs and other police related equipment.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Work includes indoor and outdoor environment; subject to adverse weather conditions and possible verbal abuse; employees may be assigned to work evening and weekend hours, and are subject to call out. The performance of police duties requires above average physical endurance in running, climbing and lifting, as well as good balance, hearing and vision. Incumbents in this classification may be exposed to gunfire, toxic chemicals, traffic hazards, occasional driving at high speeds, communicable diseases and physical abuse from hostile or disoriented individuals.
PHYSICAL ABILITIES
Constant Demands: Seeing, hearing, and speech abilities to perform essential functions and communicate with others. Requires mental acuity to ensure thorough mental analysis of situations in a fast-paced environment. Walking standing, driving lifting; carrying; climbing pushing/pulling; bending and twisting at the waist; crouching; kneeling/squatting; reaching (below the knees, knees to shoulder, and above the shoulders); foot controls.
Frequent Demands: Repetitive hand and arm motion; handling/grasping; fine finger manipulation; talking; viewing computer screen; using phone communications: sitting for extended periods of time.
HAZARDS
Exposure to physical hazard may occur when interacting with hostile participants with potential for violence.
FLSA DESIGNATION
Non-Exempt, eligible for overtime.
UNION AFFILIATION
Lakewood Police Independent Guild
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The City of Lakewood is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer that encourages, supports, and celebrates respect, empowerment, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for all. We welcome your contributions.
HIRING PROCESS SUMMARY
- Applicants must take and pass the written (minimum score of 80%) and physical ability (scored as pass or fail) test with Public Safety Testing at ; Candidates must pass both tests to continue in the process.
- A City of Lakewood employment application must be completed online at Participation in the process is limited to the first 100 qualified applicants who complete an online application.
- Successful candidates will be ranked on an initial selection list based on written exam scores.
- Top scoring candidates will be invited to participate in oral board interviews.
- A minimum passing score of 70% is required on the oral board interview.
- Successful candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list by a combination of scores from the written exam and the oral board interview.
- The written exam and the oral board interview are weighted equally.
- As applicable, veterans' scoring criteria and education preference percentages will be applied to the combined written and oral board interview scores.
- The highest scoring candidates will proceed to a Chief's panel interview. Any offer of employment will be conditional upon successfully passing a thorough background investigation, including (but not limited to) a polygraph, psychological evaluation, and a physical examination which includes drug testing.
HIRING STANDARDS
Applicants must review the Driving and Drug Usage Standards and self-screen for automatic disqualifiers before completing the supplemental questionnaire.
Driving Standards
The following driving standards represent the maximum allowable violations of driving laws and must not exceed six (6) total points in the last 36 months. As part of the background investigation, each candidate's driving record will be obtained and reviewed. Other driving offenses not listed here will be assessed point values on a case by case basis.
Points Driving Violations
8 Revocation of driver's license
8 Denial of issuance of driver's license
8 Negligent homicide
8 Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
8 Reckless driving (involving an accident)
6 Reckless driving (no accident involved)
6 Negligent driving (involving an accident)
4 Negligent driving (no accident involved)
8 Hit and run (attended)
6 Hit and run (unattended)
4 Driving while driver's license suspended
Speeding in excess of the posted limit
2 0-14 over
3 15-19 over
6 20-25 over
8 over 26
4 Convictions or forfeitures (paid fines) for other moving violations involving an
accident
2 Convictions or forfeitures for other moving violations each violation not involving an accident
Drug Usage Standards
It is common for candidates to have experimented with or casually used substances in their past. The following standards reflect the maximum allowable uses of these illegal drugs. Any uses over the allowed standard are automatically disqualifying. Each category mentioned below includes all derivatives of these controlled substances.
Drug Free: With the exception of marijuana, each applicant must be drug free for a minimum of three (3) years prior to application. Your stated past drug usage will be confirmed by a background investigation and a polygraph examination.
Marijuana
No use within the last twelve (12) months
Prescription Medication
Patterns of illegal use of obtaining prescriptions under false pretenses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Aerosols
Illegal use of aerosols will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Club Drugs
No use within the last three (3) years
Steroids
Use within the last five (5) years will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis
Stimulants/Amphetamines, Cocaine, Hallucinogens, and Opiates
No use for the last five (5) years
- No illegal drug use while employed in a criminal justice capacity (including volunteer, intern, Explorer and Reserve Officer Positions)
- Illegal manufacturing, cultivating or selling of ANY drug, including marijuana, will be carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Any other history or pattern of drug use outside these standards will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Note: While this list is not all-inclusive, use of any controlled substance not listed here will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Automatic Disqualifiers - applicants will be disqualified for any of the following:
Criminal Activity
- Any adult felony conviction.
- Adult misdemeanor convictions of moral turpitude (any conviction will be carefully reviewed).
- Been convicted of any crime under a domestic violence statute.
Employment
- Withdrawn from consideration for any (law enforcement/fire/corrections/dispatch) employment because of the following reasons: Untruthfulness.
- Been dishonorably discharged from the United States armed forces.
- Lied during any stage of the hiring process.
- Falsified his or her application, personal history questionnaire, or any other forms during the hiring process.
- Previous revocation or denial of (CJTC/POST) certified status or suspension of current (CJTC/POST) certified status.
Financial
- Failure to pay income tax or child support.
**Current credit accounts or unresolved accounts in collection will be carefully reviewed.
BENEFITS SUMMARY
for
LAKEWOOD POLICE INDEPENDENT GUILD MEMBERS
This is a summary of benefits and is not meant to be all inclusive. Please refer to the Lakewood Police Independent Guild collective bargaining agreement, City policies and plan booklets for details.
SALARY INCREASES
Step increases are granted upon completion of 12 months of actual service until the maximum of the salary range is reached. A maximum of 10% of professional development pay is available to qualifying employees.
HOLIDAYS
Employees accrue and take holidays on a basis equivalent to the employee's regularly assigned shift hours. The following are recognized holidays:
New Year's Day
M.L. King, Jr. Day
Presidents' Day
Memorial Day
Juneteenth
Independence Day
Labor Day
Veterans' Day
Thanksgiving
the day after Thanksgiving
Christmas day
Employees regularly scheduled to work 5 8-hour days will accrue one floating holiday on their anniversary date.
ANNUAL LEAVE (PTO - PAID TIME OFF)
Annual leave is a benefit granted to employees to continue normal compensation during approved absences and is intended to encompass both vacation and medical leave. Annual leave is not available during the first 60 days of employment except for illness. Leave may be accumulated for succeeding years with a maximum accrual of 1400 hours; however, at the end of the calendar year, the amount carried forward into the new year shall not exceed 1200 hours.
Accrual Rate:
During the 1st year 216 hours of leave per year
After the 1st thru 4th year 240 hours of leave per year
After the 4th thru 9th year 264 hours of leave per year
After the 9th thru 14th year 288 hours of leave per year
After the 14th thru 20th year 312 hours of leave per year
After the 20th year 336 hours of leave per year
SHARED LEAVE
If an employee exhausts all paid leave, they may be eligible to receive donated leave to cover an unpaid absence caused by illness or injury.
MILITARY LEAVE
Employees who are members of any federal military reserve unit or the Washington National Guard will receive up to twenty-one working days of paid leave during each year beginning October 1 and ending September 30, while engaged in active training duty or active duty.
The City will maintain continuity of health benefits to employees' families when employees are ordered to involuntary active military duty. Military differential pay is available during active military duty of more than 30 days and for no longer than 24 months.
JURY DUTY LEAVE
Employees will be paid their regular compensation while serving on jury duty provided they forfeit the juror's daily stipend to the City.
RETIREMENT PLAN
Employees and the City make contributions to the Washington Department of Retirement Systems' LEOFF Plan.
Under Social Security's Government Pension Offset, any Social Security spouse's or widow's or widower's benefits you may be entitled to will be reduced based on any pension you receive from the City's retirement plan.
SOCIAL SECURITY REPLACEMENT
In lieu of Social Security, the City provides an alternative plan through the ICMA Retirement Corporation. The employee contributes 6.20% and the City contributes 4.77% of the employee's salary. The employee's investment choices range from conservative (low risk) to aggressive (high risk) opportunities. Employees are immediately 100% vested in the plan.
Under Social Security's Windfall Elimination Provision, any Social Security retirement or disability benefits you may be entitled to will be reduced based on any pension you receive from this replacement plan.
VOLUNTARY 457 DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN
Participation in a 457 deferred compensation plan is available to employees through payroll deduction. This is an optional investment program offered through the ICMA Retirement Corporation or Washington Department of Retirement Systems. The City matches an employee's contribution up to 6% of the employee's base monthly pay rate.
VOLUNTARY FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT
The Flexible Spending Account (IRS Section 125) is an optional tax savings program which is offered to employees annually. It allows employees to reduce taxable income by using part of their salary on a pretax basis to pay for out of pocket health care expenses and dependent care costs.
The effective date of health insurance is the first day of the month following hire.
MEDICAL INSURANCE
During the first year of employment, employees are required to enroll in the High Deductible Health Plan unless precluded by a documented, ongoing medical condition or if covered by insurance outside of the City.
Three medical plans are offered to employees and dependents through the Association of Washington Cities (AWC):
- Regence High Deductible Health Plan with Health Savings Account. The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and dependents, and makes contributions to the Health Savings Account.
- Regence HealthFirst Plan ($250 deductible). The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and 86% of the premium for dependents.
- Kaiser Permanente Plan ($200 deductible). The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and 86% of the premium for dependents.
EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is paid for by the City, and is a voluntary, confidential resource available to employees, dependents and household members. The EAP provides professional counseling assistance in addressing a variety of concerns ranging from substance abuse to relationship issues.
VISION INSURANCE
A separate vision plan provides for annual eye examinations for employees and dependents. A $25 deductible benefit is also provided for lenses, frames and contact lenses.
DENTAL INSURANCE
Washington Dental Service (WDS) Plan E insurance is provided through AWC. The City pays the entire premium cost for employees and dependents. This is an incentive based plan - 70% to 100% of Class I and Class II benefits (routine exams, basic cleaning, x-rays, fillings, etc.) are covered. Class III benefits (crowns, inlays and onlays) are paid at 50%. The dental plan pays a maximum of $2,000 per individual annually for covered benefits per incentive period (a calendar year). A separate orthodontia plan provides a one time orthodontia benefit of $1,000 for eligible children.
SURVIVOR INCOME LIFE INSURANCE*
A monthly survivor income benefit is paid to an employee's eligible spouse and children upon the employee's death. Prior to any reduction for Social Security survivor's benefits, a benefit amount equal to 30% of the employee's insured earnings is paid to the spouse or children, and 60% is paid if both spouse and children survive.
LIFE/ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE*
The City provides basic life insurance/accidental death and dismemberment insurance through Standard Insurance. The basic life insurance benefit is equal to the employee's annual salary rounded up to the next thousand to a maximum of $100,000. An additional life insurance benefit is provided through the Washington State Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). The benefit is $15,000 for loss of life and $85,000 for accidental death and dismemberment.
DISABILITY INSURANCE*
Short and long term disability insurance is provided through the Washington State FOP. The plan has a 29 day elimination period for off the job injuries and a 180 day elimination period for on the job injuries. The benefit amount is 66.67% of regular pay, to a maximum benefit of $7,500 monthly.
*The effective date is the first of the month following hire, unless an employee is hired on the first day of the month, in which case the coverage is effective immediately.
EMPLOYEES MAY ELECT TO ENROLL IN THE FOLLOWING SELF PAY PLANS:
SUPPLEMENTAL LIFE INSURANCE
Employees may apply for $30,000 to $300,000 in supplemental term life insurance coverage. Spouses may also be insured. Premiums are paid entirely by the employee.
SHORT TERM DISABILITY (STD)
Short term disability insurance provides benefit payments to help replace lost income when an employee is disabled due to a non-occupational accident or illness. Pregnancy or its complications are covered provided enrollment in STD insurance is prior to conception. Benefits are payable for a maximum of 13 weeks. This benefit is offered to employees at the time of hire and annually thereafter.
ADDITIONAL INSURANCE PLANS
Additional insurance plans are available to employees through AFLAC, such as accident/disability, cancer, STD, dental and hospital intensive care.
01
Have you completed and passed the Written Exam with Public Safety Testing? * If you have not, STOP. Applicants are required to pass the Written Exam w/PST. We cannot process your application until this step is completed.
- Yes
- No
02
What was your score on Public Safety's Written Examination?
03
Did you select The City of Lakewood during your Public Safety Testing process? **We cannot process your application if this step is not done**
- Yes
- No
04
Lakewood Police Department standards require that you answer TRUE to questions 4-20 in order to be considered for this position. I understand that I will be disqualified from this process if I answer NO to any of the questions numbered 1-17.
- True
- False
05
I will cooperate in a background investigation by providing complete and truthful information to the investigators.
- True
- False
06
I will be completely truthful in a polygraph examination.
- True
- False
07
I have read and understand the automatic disqualifiers for driving, drug usage, and criminal activity as required by the Lakewood Police Department Hiring Standards (accessible by link on the job summary page, under education/experience requirements) and I remain eligible for hire.
- True
- False
08
I have obtained or can obtain a Washington State driver's license.
- True
- False
09
I have not been convicted of a felony as an adult (18 years of age or older).
- True
- False
10
I do not have a history of committing illegal acts which could undermine the public confidence in a police officer or the City of Lakewood Police Department. As a result, I believe I can pass an investigation which thoroughly covers my personal history including ANY illegal behaviors (misdemeanors or acts for which I was not caught), immoral acts, my work history, honesty and integrity.
- True
- False
11
I am able to perform the essential functions of police work with or without reasonable accomodation; essential job functions include running, subduing and detaining fleeing suspects, driving a vehicle, shooting a firearm, verbal communication with the public and writing reports.
- True
- False
12
I am willing to undergo a thorough medical examination.
- True
- False
13
I am willing to be evaluated by a psychologist.
- True
- False
14
I am willing to carry and use a firearm.
- True
- False
15
I will work any shift, including nights, weekends and holidays, as assigned by my superiors.
- True
- False
16
I can read, write, and speak the English language, so as to be easily understood by others.
- True
- False
17
I have never withdrawn my application from consideration for any (law enforcement/fire/corrections/dispatch) employment because of untruthfulness.
- True
- False
18
I have never been dishonorably discharged from any United States armed forces.
- True
- False
19
I have never previously been revoked or denied a CJTC/POST certified status, or have never had a current suspended CJTC/POST certified status.
- True
- False
20
I am at least 21 years of age.
- True
- False
21
Have you completed and passed the Physical Ability Test with Public Safety Testing? ** If you have not, STOP. Applicants are required to pass the Written Exam w/PST. We cannot process your application until this step is completed.
- True
- False
Required Question