Lateral Applicant Qualifications Applications from experienced police officers are encouraged and accepted on a continuous basis. In addition to meeting the above requirements, all lateral entry applicants must have been employed on a full time basis as a general authority paid commissioned officer for a minimum of 12 of the last 36 months at the time of application. Applicants must also have successfully completed a basic police training academy and become certified by the Washington State Equivalency Academy within one year from employment. Commissioned academy graduates are assigned to the Patrol Division under the guidance of a Field Training Officer who instructs and guides new officers in the practical application of academy training. Lateral police officers are assigned directly to the Patrol Division with a Field Training Officer to provide orientation and training.
Performance is evaluated during the first year on a regular basis.
All Entry-Level officers serve an 18 month period of probation where job performance is formally evaluated by a supervisor. Outstanding Benefits Education Police Officers are encouraged to further their education. Insurance and Retirement Medical, dental and life insurance premiums are paid in full for the employee and eligible dependents. Vision and orthodontia coverage are included in the plans. Paid Leave Currently employees receive 12 days of sick leave and 12 holidays.