Police Officer - Lateral Detective

City of Forest Grove•Forest Grove, OR
•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Forest Grove is seeking qualified Lateral Police Officers who are interested in becoming detectives at our Forest Grove Police Department. This detective assignment is a five (5) year appointment with extension at the discretion of the Police Chief. A City of Forest Grove Police Detective will get to know businesses and residents; assist Patrol as needed; conduct complex and detailed investigations into criminal matters which are beyond the scope and/or ability of Patrol; enforce state and local laws; and demonstrate service orientation with an understanding of community-oriented policing. Detectives may participate in multiagency investigation groups, such as the Washington County Major Crimes Team. This position is generally a non-uniformed sworn law enforcement position that, in addition to a base salary and benefits, is eligible to receive: 5% investigations premium pay, a take-home vehicle and an annual clothing allowance of $590.00 (paid semi-annually: $295.00). This position is represented by the Forest Grove Police Association.

Requirements

  • Completion of the twelfth grade or equivalent
  • Completion of state certified police academy
  • Completion of a law enforcement field training program
  • Have been employed as a full-time sworn officer with at least five (5) years of experience
  • United States citizenship
  • Valid driver's license
  • 21 years of age at time of appointment
  • Acceptable criminal history with no felony record
  • Driving record that meets policy and department standards
  • Lateral Police Officers will be required to successfully compete Forest Grove Police Department's field training and evaluation program (FTEP).

Nice To Haves

  • College-level coursework preferred
  • Experience in detectives or similar investigative roles preferred
  • If no experience in detectives or similar investigative role, relevant experience in Patrol performing advanced investigations demonstrating knowledge of criminal and procedural laws; the ability to conduct complex investigations, including conducting interviews and/or interrogations, identifying, documenting and collecting evidence, and writing detailed reports; and experience preparing search and arrest warrants.

Responsibilities

  • Investigate complex cases including but not limited to child abuse, sexual abuse, rape, assault, robbery, homicide, and other person crimes; identity theft, forgery, theft, burglary, and other property crimes
  • Interview suspects, victims, and witnesses
  • Identify, collect, and process evidence
  • Recover stolen property
  • Document crime scenes or evidence using advanced technology
  • Prepare search and arrest warrants, as well as other court orders
  • Write reports that are accurate, detailed, and professional
  • Provide professional and effective courtroom testimony
  • Maintain good working relationships with businesses, residents, other law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors in the Portland metro area
  • Identify and locate suspects who are committing crimes in Forest Grove or other jurisdictions as directed or required
  • Respond when called to assist Patrol or partner agencies on major crimes or crimes that Patrol officers do not have the resources to investigate
  • Be available for on-call responsibilities on a rotational basis
  • Maintain a high level of knowledge regarding current case law and observe procedural law while performing investigative duties
  • Respond to calls for service if needed

Benefits

  • 5% investigations premium pay
  • Take-home vehicle
  • Annual clothing allowance of $590.00 (paid semi-annually: $295.00)
  • Oregon PERS retirement plan
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service