Lateral Police Officer

The City of Lynden is conducting this recruitment to establish an eligibility register for future vacancies. There is currently one (1) vacancy at this time. Candidates who successfully complete the examination and selection process will be placed on an eligibility register in accordance with Civil Service Rules, but placement does not guarantee employment. Patrol and Response Patrol city streets, parks, commercial and residential areas to preserve the peace and enforce the law, control vehicular traffic, prevent or detect and investigate misconduct involving misdemeanors, felonies and other law violations, and to serve and protect. Conduct patrol activities including directing traffic, investigating reported or observed violations of law, and responding to emergency radio calls. Investigate accidents, robberies, civil disturbances, domestic disputes, fights, drunkenness, missing children, prowlers, abuse of drugs, etc., and take appropriate law‑enforcement action. Investigation and Interrogation Conduct follow‑up investigations of crimes committed within the city limits, seeking out and questioning victims, witnesses and suspects, developing leads and tips, searching crime scenes for clues, analyzing evidence, and arresting offenders. Prepare cases for filing of charges, testify in court proceedings, and participate in investigations of criminal law violations occurring within the city limits. Interrogate suspects, witnesses and drivers, preserve evidence, and investigate and render assistance at the scene of vehicular accidents, summoning ambulances and other law‑enforcement vehicles, taking measurements and drawing diagrams. Reporting and Record Keeping Prepare a variety of manual and electronic reports and records. Communication and Coordination Maintain contact with police supervisory personnel to coordinate investigation activities, provide mutual assistance during emergencies, and provide general information about department activities. Coordinate activities with other officers or city departments as needed, exchange information with officers in other law‑enforcement agencies, and obtain advice from the City Attorney, Court Administrator, and Municipal Prosecutor's Office. Undertake community‑oriented police work and assist citizens with matters such as locked or stalled vehicles, crime prevention, traffic safety, and related issues. Special Assignments May be assigned specialized duties such as detective, armor, and field training officer. Other Duties Perform other administrative or technical duties as needed and assigned. General Entry Level Requirements U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States. Must be 21 years or older at the time of employment. No record of felony convictions or disqualifying criminal histories. Must be able to read and write the English language. Must be of good moral character and of temperate and industrious habits. Lateral Requirements Must meet all entry‑level requirements listed above. Must meet required physical, psychological, and medical standards, and the department's physical agility test. Must have a minimum of 12 months experience as a full‑time commissioned officer in a civilian governmental jurisdiction with no break of service of more than 24 months at the time of application. Successful completion of the Washington Criminal Justice Training Center Academy or Equivalency Test is required. Officers outside of Washington State must complete the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Equivalent Academy and Examination within one year of appointment. Education and Experience High school diploma or equivalent (GED). A two‑year community college degree or vocational school training in police sciences, law enforcement, criminal justice administration, public administration, or a closely related field is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the incumbent with the necessary qualifications may be considered. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of: Modern law‑enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment. Skills and Abilities: Support, promote, and model the city's mission, vision, and core values in all aspects of job performance. Maintain good physical condition to perform essential job functions. Proficiently operate a personal computer and relevant software. Learn applicable laws, ordinances, and department rules and regulations. Learn the city's geography. Exercise sound judgment in evaluation situations and in making decisions. Communicate in a clear, concise manner, both orally and in writing. Implement standard, established procedures and regulations and follow verbal and written instructions accurately. Respond effectively to the public both in person and through the telephone and electronic media in a manner conducive to positive customer relations. Plan, organize, and prioritize work to complete required tasks and meet deadlines. Deal effectively with sensitive issues and maintain confidentiality of information. Handle stressful situations, which may involve dealing with angry or upset individuals. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, outside entities, and the general public. Represent the city in a positive and professional manner. Verification & Additional Requirements Must have a valid Washington driver's license without a record of suspension or revocation in any state (or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment). Must pass appropriate background checks, including polygraph. Ability to meet department's physical standards and pass a medical exam. This position is safety‑sensitive and is subject to pre‑employment drug testing, including testing for cannabis. Must maintain required certifications such as First Aid, CPR, BAC, firearms, taser (if applicable), and any other certifications which may be required. The City of Lynden is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr