Entry Level Police Officer

Police Officer

Immediate opening! The Longview Police Department is in the process adding to our current entry-level Police Officer eligibility list.

The City of Longview requires entry-level candidates to first go through Public Safety Testing (PST) to complete a written exam and physical abilities test before continuing in the application process. Information about testing can be found on the PST website, Contact Public Safety Testing to get started today.

If you have not taken the PST written and physical ability tests, please do not submit an application at this time. Please only fill out and submit an application if you received a passing score from PST.

Your application will be used in the background process. Please complete each section carefully and thoroughly; including all work history and education. If you wish, you may also list voluntary positions as work history.

Patrol Officer - Training (first 6 months) $7,801 per month

Patrol Officer - Base Salary (after 6 months) $8,212- $10,092 per month

This position provides first line duty in the protection of life and property of the citizens of the community including the enforcement of laws and ordinances, the preservation of the peace, apprehension of criminals, control of non-criminal conduct and the application of services to the community. Police protection is provided by the City 24 hours a day. Individual officers may be assigned to either an 8, 9, 10 or 10.5 hour shifts, depending on shift assignment.

Responsible for assigned areas within the city for patrol by various means (i.e. patrol vehicle, bicycle, foot, etc.) for constant observation of all properties within the assigned area, work traffic on a selective basis and is available and responsible for answering all calls of any nature during assigned duty hours, (i.e. domestic, emergency, accident, etc.). Investigate crimes and complaints against persons & property such as murder, assault, manslaughter, robbery, rape, various sex crimes, burglary, theft and other reported crimes, and prepare and document appropriate reports and evidence. Perform public relations work in public safety, law enforcement, traffic accidents and crime prevention, and make routine checks of public dances, licensed liquor establishments and other public gatherings (i.e. sporting events, or other special community events). Render assistance and information to the public as well as emergency first aid or lifesaving methods to accident victims or persons unable to help themselves. Perform related duties as required.

Selection is based upon civil service rules. Testing includes a written exam, physical agility test, and oral interview. Incumbents must have a High School Diploma or equivalent, must be 21 years of age (must be a minimum of 20 1/2 years of age to test), a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident, possess a valid driver's license, successfully complete the 720 hour basic training academy during the initial period of employment; possess a current State Department of L&I Basic First Aid Card or ability to obtain within 90 days, and be certified by the Washington State Toxicologist in operation of the breathalyzer or ability to obtain within 90 days.

Without the required documentation, applications may be rejected. Please view the supplemental questions for a list of required documents.

Knowledge: American system of government, the judicial process, federal, state and local laws and ordinances; law enforcement policies and procedures; principles and practices of criminal investigation; identification and modern police administration; use and care of firearms and defensive weapons.

Physical: The incumbent must be physically capable of driving a vehicle safely under various conditions, including emergencies; frequently lifting, carrying, dragging, pulling and pushing objects of varying weight and size; standing, walking and running for extended times over various distances and conditions, such as pursuing a running suspect through yards and over fences and walls; observe and recognize people, activity, vehicles, street signs and environmental conditions from a reasonable distance during day and night; not posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or others, use only force objectively necessary to control situations and persons, including combative or fleeing suspects, able to operate a variety of firearms and weapons safely and proficiently. Occasional climbing stairs and/or ladders. Frequent bending/twisting at waist/knees/neck while performing duties. Occasional kneeling/crouching/crawling may be required in responding to emergency situations. Constant use of both hands and arms in reaching/handling/grasping/fingering while performing duties or while operating vehicle. Overhead reaching required. Constant use of sight, hearing and speech abilities necessary to perform essential tasks. Visual requirements include color and peripheral vision and hand/eye/foot coordination while operating vehicle.

Mental: Incumbents must be able to read and understand English language documents, legibly hand write accurate and grammatically correct reports; communicate effectively orally, in writing, and using the police radio; exercise good judgment in dealing with routine unusual situations; learn and comprehend factual information, policies, procedures and rules, and use good judgment and discretion in applying same to changing conditions in similar and non-similar situations; maintain composure and judgment during emergency or tense situations; confront problems and enforce laws; refuse to participate in or tolerate unethical behavior; not be subject to impeachment in court due to character, reputation, history of dishonesty or violation of law, including drug violations, act courteously toward others; take direction from supervisors; maintain good working relationships with other members of the Department and City; accept criticism and apply to performance, be dependable in meeting scheduled assignments; and work extended hours when required.

Working Environment: As a Police Officer, the incumbent is exposed to a wide range of negative and hostile physical and psychological factors. The incumbent frequently drives and walks in a wide variety of weather conditions which are not avoidable. In the performance of job duties, the incumbent must occasionally lift heavy objects and wrestle with combative criminals. Psychologically, the incumbent is exposed to verbal abuse and socially unacceptable behavior, and must at all times be mentally alert to potentially dangerous situations. The incumbent must be able to work evenings and holidays as assigned and respond to emergencies when necessary.