Police Officer - Lateral

Position: Police Officer (Certified/Lateral)
Location: City of Keizer, Oregon
Department: Police, Patrol Division
Bargaining Unit: Keizer Police Association
Recruitment Opened: Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Recruitment Re-Opened: Monday, September 21, 2026
In-Person Interviews: Tuesday, October 20, 2026
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Salary: $34.59 - $45.70/hr, plus incentives as applicable (Salary will be updated after bargaining.)
At the Keizer Police Department (KPD) we are more than just a law enforcement agency-we are a tight knit group that values family and community. Our commitment to community safety is rooted in the values of fairness, integrity, and impartial policing. We believe in building trust through open communication and fostering positive relationships within our diverse and vibrant community.
We have identified five personal attributes to guide performance and the department's hiring, promotional and evaluation processes:
CONSCIENTIOUSNESS
Conscientiousness in law enforcement ensures meticulous attention to detail, adherence to ethical standards, and a commitment to thorough, responsible decision-making, contributing to the integrity and effectiveness of the criminal justice system.
COURAGE
Courage (integrity) is crucial for maintaining public trust, upholding justice, and ensuring officers act ethically and bravely in the face of challenges.
EMPATHY
Empathy is crucial because it fosters understanding, builds community connections, and promotes fair and compassionate treatment, enhancing the overall effectiveness and legitimacy of the justice system.
HELPFULNESS
Helpfulness cultivates positive community relations, promotes public safety, and strengthens trust by demonstrating a commitment to assisting and supporting individuals in times of need.
HUMILITY
Humility in law enforcement acknowledges that we can't police society on our own, fosters collaboration, and enhances community relations, creating a more approachable and empathetic force that prioritizes education and improvement.
LATERAL QUALIFICATIONS
Oregon lateral candidates must currently be certified as a Police Officer with at least two years' full-time experience upon date of hire.
Applicants from outside of Oregon, may or may not be considered laterals depending on training and experience. Per Oregon DPSST, out of state laterals are required to complete a Police Career Officer Development (COD) course or complete the Basic Police Academy.
Pay & Benefits
Placement on the Compensation Range & Step Schedule and consideration of hiring incentives will be dependent on the amount and type of qualified experience.

• Hourly rate: $34.94 - $45.70, plus applicable incentives
• Immediate incentives: 6% (additional 7.5% until Public Employee Retirement System eligibility) employer contributions to a deferred compensation 457(b) retirement account and 2% employer contributions to a retirement health savings program; no match required.
• Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision plans, term life and long-term disability insurance, FSA, HSA & LPFSA, paid time off (sick, vacation, holidays), City paid retirement contributions (PERS, deferred compensation, and retirement health savings), education incentives, fitness incentive program and on-site fitness center, and even access to an on-site massage chair!
• Language: 5% pay incentive for Spanish-speaking candidates
• DPSST Certification: 2.5% pay incentive for intermediate & 5% pay incentive for advanced
• Education: 2.5% pay incentive for Associates & 5% pay incentive for Bachelors
• Special Assignments: 5% pay incentive for K9, SWAT, & Motors

How to Apply

• Submit your up-to-date resume and completed supplemental questions through the City of Keizer's BambooHR system by the closing date. If you are a first-time user, you will be prompted to create a BambooHR account before uploading your materials.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) candidates and Veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Veterans requesting Veteran's Preference must complete a Veteran's Preference Form and provide required paperwork.
• Requests for accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act must be submitted in writing prior to the closing date of this announcement.

What to Expect After You Apply

• Confirmation Email: After submitting your resume and supplemental questions through BambooHR, a confirmation email will be sent to the email address associated with your BambooHR registration.
• Initial Screening: Application materials will be reviewed to verify that minimum qualifications are met and that all required information has been submitted.

• Personal History Questionnaire: Qualified candidates will answer a thorough Personal History Questionnaire.
• Interview Invitations: Candidates selected to move forward will be contacted by email to schedule an interview. Depending on the recruitment, this may include one or more interview rounds.

• Background Investigation: You will undergo a comprehensive background investigation. A background investigator will review your Personal History Questionnaire and may contact current and former employers, personal and professional references including family members. Your employment history, financial and credit history, driving, criminal history, and other areas will be investigated and thoroughly reviewed.
• Final Selection & Conditional Offer: Finalist(s) will receive a conditional job offer pending successful completion of required background checks and pre-employment steps.
• Status Updates: Status updates will be posted on the City's Current Job Openings page throughout the recruitment process, and application updates will be sent through the email listed on your application.

Why Work for the City of Keizer?
Located in Oregon's stunning Willamette Valley, Keizer is a vibrant community with easy access to mountains, coastlines, and forests, offering the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city resources. Join us, and you'll enjoy:

• Moderate year-round climate ideal for outdoor adventures
• A close-knit community that values innovation and service
• Engaging events like KeizerFEST, holiday parades, and more!

Join Us in Keizer!
The City of Keizer celebrates diversity and welcomes candidates with non-traditional backgrounds. If you're a problem solver with strong critical thinking skills, can effectively work with a diverse population, are able to de-escalate situations, build positive community relationships, and have a desire to serve the Keizer community, we invite you to apply now!
For questions or accommodation requests, reach out to HR at or .