Lateral Police Officer - Join our Talent Pool

As an experienced law enforcement professional, you know that great policing is built on service, integrity, professionalism, and strong community relationships. The City of The Dalles Police Department is seeking dedicated, career-minded officers to join our Lateral Police Officer Talent Pool and be among the first notified of future employment opportunities.

By joining our Talent Pool, you'll establish an early connection with our agency and receive priority notification when lateral police officer positions become available. This allows interested candidates to stay informed, explore future opportunities, and receive expedited consideration when a recruitment opens.

What We Offer

The City of The Dalles provides a competitive compensation and benefits package designed to support you and your family. The City of The Dalles is NOT a PERS agency and operates our own generous retirement system. You can draw a PERS pension and build a City of The Dalles pension at the same time without penalty.

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• FSA and HRA‑VEBA
• Long‑term disability, AD&D, and Employee Assistance Program
• City‑paid retirement contributions (13.5% after one year of service)
• Opportunities for professional growth, training, and specialized assignments

• A commitment to community-oriented policing
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Sound judgment, ethical decision-making, and effective problem-solving
• Professionalism and integrity
• Ability to interpret and apply laws and policies
• Strong report-writing and computer skills
• Ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations
• Ability to safely operate police vehicles and equipment
• A commitment to teamwork and exceptional public service

Minimum Qualifications:

• Successful completion of a state‑certified police academy equivalent to Oregon DPSST (or applicable state standard)
• Current police officer certification (or be eligible for certification transfer/reciprocity)
• Ability to pass all required background checks, psychological evaluations, medical exams, and drug screening
• At least one (1) year of prior full‑time experience as a sworn law enforcement officer
• Ability to testify in court with credibility and integrity
• Must be at least 21 years of age.

Preferred Qualifications

While not required, the following experience and certifications are highly valued:

• Field Training Officer (FTO) experience
• Experience with report writing systems, digital evidence management, CAD, RMS, or other modern policing technologies
• Spanish language proficiency (written and verbal)
• Instructor certifications
• Firearms instructor or advanced firearms certifications
• Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) certification
• Specialized investigative, tactical, or supervisory training
• Other advanced law enforcement certifications and qualifications

Required Licenses & Certifications

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Basic Police Officer certification through a state public safety standards agency (or equivalent)
• CPR and First Aid certification (training provided if needed)

Be Ready When Opportunity Knocks

If you're looking for your next career move with a professional, community-focused police department, we encourage you to join our Talent Pool today. We look forward to connecting with dedicated officers who are committed to making a difference and serving the residents of The Dalles with pride and professionalism.

About The Dalles:

• Join a Welcoming Community - Experience the warmth of a small-town spirit where local events, farmers' markets, and festivals bring people together and create lasting connections.
• Thrive in a Growing Economy - Be part of a diverse and stable economy fueled by agriculture, technology, healthcare, government, and tourism. Your career can grow here.
• Embrace the Outdoors - With over 300 days of sunshine, enjoy easy access to the Columbia River Gorge for hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports - plus winter adventures are just an hour away at Mt. Hood.
• Balance Work and Life - Live surrounded by stunning riverfront parks, scenic trails, and a city that values thoughtful growth and a strong industrial and technology presence.
• Affordable and Accessible - Benefit from affordable housing, quality schools, and healthcare - all just 80 miles from Portland, combining small-town charm with metropolitan convenience.
• Be Part of Something Bigger - Join close-knit neighborhoods where community support is real and your contributions matter'

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