Entry Level Police Officer

Application Process 1. Test: Visit to participate in Law Enforcement Officer Testing. Select City of Sumner to receive your scores. The City utilizes a continuous testing process for entry‑level Police Officer positions. The City contracts with Public Safety Testing (PST) to administer both the written and physical agility portions of the selection process. An applicant must pass both before they can apply with the City. For information about testing, dates, and FAQ, visit the PST website. 2. Apply: Apply directly with the City of Sumner through the online application. Provide basic information. The City will use your Personal History Questionnaire for employment information. 3. Interview: After receiving your scores and application, the City will contact you to participate in oral boards. Candidates are selected in rank order based on PST scores. Pay and Working Conditions 2026 Pay Range: $45.61 – $58.36 per hour plus potential for education premiums. This is a full‑time position, a Fair Labor Standards Act position, a civil service employee, and eligible for representation through the Police Guild. Position Levels Entry Level Police Officer: 0 years’ experience as a fully commissioned law officer. Exceptional Entry Police Officer: Less than 2 years’ experience as a fully commissioned law officer, with no more than a 24‑month break in service. Lateral Police Officer: 2 or more years’ experience as a fully commissioned law officer, with no more than a 24‑month break in service. About Sumner The City of Sumner seeks to set the standard of excellence for a progressive small city. Sumner values diverse perspectives and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply. It has a population of just over 10,000, a historic downtown, and is connected to the Puget Sound region. Sumner has earned awards for its planning and police work and has a professional yet creative government structure. About the Sumner Police Department The Sumner Police Department has 21 commissioned officers, including a Police Chief, Deputy Chief, Sergeants, Detectives, a School Resource Officer, and Patrol Officers. Additional staffing includes administrative support, an Evidence Custodian, and a Parking Enforcement Officer. The department is state accredited, is guided by professionalism, integrity, teamwork, and commitment, and participates in multi‑agency teams for SWAT, Major Crimes, Civil Disturbance, Collision Investigations, and traffic emphasis. General Purpose Performs a variety of duties related to the suppression and prevention of crime, protection of life and property, and preservation of public peace. Responsible for enforcing laws and providing aid and information to citizens. Supervision Reports to Police Sergeants. Supervises the community and ensures laws and regulations are followed. Principal Responsibilities Patrol designated areas of the City during assigned shifts to preserve law and order. Answer calls and complaints involving traffic accidents, domestic situations, robberies, misdemeanors, disturbances, and felonies; take necessary police action. Observe, report, and act on conditions conducive to crime and danger; check buildings and residences for security; observe suspicious persons and vehicles. Issue infractions and citations, make arrests, transport persons taken into custody, or take other appropriate action. Prepare all forms, reports, and follow‑up reports necessary to file felony and/or misdemeanor charges. Prepare criminal cases for prosecution with the City or County Prosecutor; interact with prosecutors, attorneys, and court officials; testify in court as required. Conduct preliminary investigations at crime scenes; gather evidence; locate and question witnesses; testify as a witness. Patrol in a patrol vehicle, bicycle, or on foot; interview witnesses; collect evidence; perform crime scene work; conduct surveillance; apprehend suspects; prepare reports; assist other jurisdictions and agencies; participate in undercover investigations of narcotics, gambling, vice, and other activities; be available for emergency duties. Conduct investigation assignments of suspected illegal activity or follow‑up investigations of criminal cases; may conduct specialized investigations. Collect and document evidence; request laboratory analysis. Report traffic hazards and direct pedestrian and vehicular traffic flow when necessary. Disbursed unruly crowds; enforce vehicle operation and parking regulations; issue warnings, notices of infraction, or citations; respond to emergency calls including hazardous waste spills, bomb threats, and a wide variety of other calls. Determine the nature of a call, investigate circumstances, and take any necessary and prudent action; may call for assistance of supervisors if necessary. Takes command at scene of crime or accident; administers first aid; requests medical aid; takes statements; examines situation; records vital information. Perform community liaison activities; educate the public about crime prevention; provide general information on law and ordinances; explain the process of filing a formal complaint and alternatives available. Direct citizens to appropriate authorities; participate in crime prevention and community programs. Provide or assist in other functions such as drug awareness education, training management, scouting programs, etc. Serve and enforce civil processes issued by courts, including restraining orders, protection orders, and subpoenas. Serve arrest and search warrants; transport persons in police custody. Prepare and write a variety of reports and records, including incident reports, calls for service, property impoundment, accidents, offenses, damages, field interviews, and investigation results. Attend meetings, seminars, and training to maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of laws and technical skills. Ensure all equipment is clean, maintained, and operating properly. Maintain working relationships with surrounding departments and community agencies. Train new personnel in geographic and cultural characteristics of the city and general officer duties. Provide non‑emergency assistance to people in need. May provide booking services and back‑up assistance to dispatchers, jailers, animal control officers, evidence custodians, and records clerks as needed. Education and Experience Completion of the twelfth grade. Successful graduation from the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Must obtain and maintain Washington State Peace Officer Certification. Must be at least 21 years of age. Special Requirements Valid Washington State driver’s license with a driving record free from serious or frequent violations. Pass a background check. Attain successful completion of training requirements prescribed by the Department. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Federal, state, county, and city laws, regulations, and ordinances. Criminal behavior and underlying causes; social, psychological, and physical needs of criminals. Standard police practices, methods, and procedures. Safety standards, procedures, and precautions in police activities. Methods of investigation, apprehension, and rules of evidence. Basic first aid and CPR procedures. Safe and appropriate use of firearms and other police‑related tools. Abilities Apply principles and techniques of modern crime prevention, investigation, and evidence presentation. Physically handle persons resisting arrest. Meet minimum standards of strength, agility, and endurance specified in the Cooper Test or other approved test. Interact with the public in a tactful, pleasant, and courteous manner. Follow oral and written directions. Maintain composure under adverse conditions such as public harassment, critical injuries, and death. Establish effective working relationships with co‑workers, other organizations, and the public. Analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine a proper course of action. Present evidence in court effectively; observe and remember details such as names and incidents. Use firearms and other tools safely, including vehicle operation. Contribute to the Department’s mission. Communicate effectively in speaking and writing English. Forms Waiver and Authorization to Release Information Pre‑Employment Investigation Discovery Waiver Veterans' Preference Veterans must complete and sign the Veterans Scoring Criteria Status Declaration form and provide service verification. These documents must be attached to the application to receive Veterans' Preference points. Selection Guidelines Formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, reference check. Job‑related tests may be required. Background Checks Prior Employment Verification – confirms employment history and role. Personal and Professional References – contact references listed. Employment Eligibility Verification – Form I‑9. Educational Verification – confirms claimed educational institution and credentials. Criminal History – review of convictions, probation, and related factors. Motor Vehicle Records – required for positions involving driving. Credit History – required for positions handling funds. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change by the employer as needs and requirements evolve. #J-18808-Ljbffr