Police Officer - Lateral

City of Bend•Bend, OR

43d•Onsite

About The Position

This recruitment is only open to current police officers or those who meet the minimum qualifications outlined in the minimum qualifications section of this job announcement. Are you ready to make a real impact in one of Oregon’s most vibrant cities? The Bend Police Department is calling on Lateral Officers who are driven, community-minded individuals to join our forward-thinking force. We’re not just about law enforcement — we’re about innovation, collaboration, and building trust with the people we serve. As a Bend Police Officer, you’ll be part of a dynamic team that values integrity, excellence, and teamwork. We’re proud to serve over 106,000 residents through progressive, community-based policing that puts people first. Whether you're starting your journey or looking to advance your career, this is your opportunity to grow professionally while making a meaningful difference. The position is represented by the Bend Police Association and is FLSA non-exempt — meaning you’re eligible for overtime as you help shape the future of public safety in Bend. Classification Framework: Class Specifications | Police Officer | Class Spec Details

Requirements

Must be a minimum age of 21 years.
Have completed a law enforcement field training program or passed a probationary period of not less than one (1) year with a law enforcement agency as a full-time sworn officer.
Have been employed as a full-time sworn officer within the last five (5) year period prior to the appointment of this position.
Be able to obtain reciprocity or already have; law enforcement certification by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).
An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.
Ability to successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation including a criminal history check.
Current and valid Driver’s License per City policies outlined in the Employee Handbook.
Ability to obtain Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) Certification.
Must be able to work various shifts and inclement weather as assigned.
Lift heavy gear and traffic hazards.
Develop and maintain physical fitness to subdue suspects and use appropriate physical force, move vehicles, and carry people.
Be flexible and available for rapid response needs and shifting priorities.
Keep updated on criminal intelligence, criminal/municipal statutes, training events and other briefing bulletins.
Must be able to be observant and aware while performing multiple tasks.
A completed online application
A formal Cover letter addressing why you want to be an officer with the Bend Police Department.
Attached valid Credentials, Certifications and Licensing

Nice To Haves

New lateral police officers that possess a police certification through Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) or state equivalent.
Lateral candidates who are certified officers and have successfully completed their previous agencies Field Training program.
Out of state applicants, we are experienced in requesting reciprocity for your certifications and can guide you through the process.
Candidates who meet the listed minimum qualifications, including an equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered for an interview.
Applicants who hold a four-year degree or already hold a DPSST Officer certification in Oregon are exempt from this requirement.
If you have tested within the past 12 months we will honor your scores.

Responsibilities

Carry out the mission of the agency as defined in the mission statement; models and promotes the core values of the organization.
First, responders to incidents, you serve as a direct link between the department and the public.
Respond to and investigate incidents and crime scenes, taking action at incidents, proactively patrolling assigned areas, engaging in information leading policing activities and making independent decisions to deter criminal activity.
Enforce laws and ordinances, making arrests, preserving crime scene evidence and performing preventative community policing.
Serve arrest and search warrants.
Direct traffic and patrol areas during incidents or any other occasion of a special or emergency nature.
Investigate crashes, completes reports, make arrests or issues citations; render first aid.
Conduct investigations concerning various types of crime, interviews witnesses and suspects, take photographs, fingerprint and gather evidence.
Attends judicial proceedings, presents evidence and provides credible testimony.
Participate in departmental meetings and attend in-service training classes and schools.
Book in prisoners and transport prisoners when necessary.
Assist other law enforcement agencies.
Complete reports, conduct follow-up investigations and re-contacts.
Render assistance to the public.
Comply with the safety requirements of the position and actively promotes safe work practices.
In an emergency event or an officially declared State of Emergency, responds as directed to ensure the restoration of essential public services, facilities and infrastructure.
Provide customer service and communicate effectively with citizens and coworkers.
Perform other duties as assigned or directed.

Benefits

$10,000.00 Hiring Incentive
40 hours of sick leave, available to use immediately with no waiting period
40 hours of vacation leave, available to use immediately with no waiting period
Moving expenses reimbursement (up to $3,000)
Supplied uniform and gear including vest
On-duty workouts, onsite mental health clinician, functional fitness, and more
Educational Reimbursements
Community Enhancement Program: Additional 2% to gross wages
Language Fluency: Qualify for a $2.00 per hour increase for fluency in languages other than English, as approved by the Chief of Police
VA On-the-Job training program available for our Veterans
The City of Bend offers an excellent competitive benefits package for Employees and Dependents for health and dental coverage, retirement benefits, and a robust paid leave program.