Police Officer - Lateral

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Port of Portland Police Department, 7240 NE Airport Way, 3rd Floor, Portland 97218, OR
Job Type: Full-Time Represented
Job Number: 02151
Division: Aviation
Department: Aviation Security & Public Saf
Opening Date: 03/01/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt

The Position
We are hiring Lateral Police Officers for the Port of Portland!

The Port of Portland Police Department is looking for dedicated and experienced police officers to join our dynamic team. As state-certified peace officers, our police officers primarily serve at the Portland International Airport and the surrounding areas, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and supporting federal aviation regulations.

Our department is comprised of over 65 sworn officers and 8 non-sworn staff. In addition to uniformed patrol, we offer specialized assignments in areas such as detectives, canine handlers, TriMet, Metro, bomb technicians, and task forces.

Our mission is clear: to proactively protect the safety and security of the traveling public, with a strong focus on preventing potential threats to the aviation industry.
Lateral Transfer Eligibility: To be considered as a lateral applicant, candidates must be currently certified or eligible to be certified as a Police Officer in the State of Oregon without the need to attend the Basic Police AcademyAdditionally, applicants must have at least three years of experience as a state-certified police officer.

Please note: Applicants under investigation during the background check process will not be eligible for employment.

SALARY INFORMATION:
Salary is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement and years of continuous service. Lateral Officers are credited with previous years of service for purposes of placement on the salary scale up to the top scale with a minimum of 5 years of service. All required uniforms and equipment are supplied by the police department.

Contract Salary Scale:Hourly: Salary:Start:$39.744$82,667.521 year:$42.187$87,748.962 years:$44.777$93,136.16 3 years:$47.542$98,887.36 4 years:$50.319$104,663.52 5 years+: $53.332$110,930.56
NOTE: : In addition to the base salary, officers may qualify for incentive/premium pay for certifications, special skills, and specialty assignments as outlined in the CBA. Examples include:

• 10% for DPSST Advanced certification or 5% for DPSST Intermediate certification
• 5% for working as a Detective.
• 5% for being a certified member of the Rapid Response Team (RRT)
• 3% for Language proficiency (test required)
• 6% for working as a certified Canine Handler
• 6% for working as a certified Bomb Technician
• 10% when training recruits as a Field Training Officer (FTO) or 5% when Instructing

SELECTION PROCESS:

• Application Material Review
• Oral Board Interviews
• Conditional Offer
• Successful completion of ORPAT TEST (by time of hire)
• Background Investigation (Applicants cannot be under investigation at time of background)
• Psychological Exam
• Chief's Interview
• Medical Exam
• Pre-employment drug screening
• Employment Confirmation

TESTING PROCESS:
Port of Portland Employment Application: To be considered for this position, applicants MUST complete the Port of Portland's employment application by visiting our website: Please ensure your application reflects all relevant education and experience, as incomplete applications may be rejected. Resumes are not a substitute for incomplete or partially completed applications.

Oral Board Interview: If candidates are selected for an interview, they will be notified directly that they will be moving forward in the process. Oral Board Interviews are in-person.

Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT):
If you are not a current Oregon officer or are applying from out of state, you will need to complete the Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT) as part of the hiring process. ORPAT testing is held at Chemeketa Community College in Brooks, Oregon, and must be completed by the time of hire. If you've already completed a similar test in your state, you can submit your results for evaluation. (Click for details on scheduling the ORPAT.)

Note: Applicants who have completed the ORPAT, a comparable physical abilities test, or a U.S. Military PAT within the previous six months may submit their scores for consideration. However, submitting prior scores does not guarantee exemption from the ORPAT.
Essential Job Duties

• Protect life and property at Portland International Airport (PDX).
• Patrol designated areas by vehicle, bicycle or on foot to deter crime and discover criminal activity and enforce traffic statues and ordinances.
• Communicate in person, via radios and computers to broadcast and receive information.
• Respond to reports of possible crimes and act according to the situation.
• Perform a full range of law enforcement and airport security duties, including serving search and arrest warrants, collecting evidence making arrests, and completing detailed incident reports.
• Enforce State statutes, Port, and City ordinances, issuing citations or making arrests as appropriate.
• Respond to traffic and other accidents, administer first aid, interview witnesses, and complete accident reports.
• Develop contacts to gather information about crimes and maintain intelligence on known criminal activities and suspects.
• Ensure public convenience and well-being within airport facilities, addressing inquiries, resolving complaints, and providing personal security services for public officials and other individuals as assigned.
• Provide community services and presentations, and respond promptly to the needs of airport tenants, customers, and stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a civilian Certified Police Officer within the United States, with preference given to active law enforcement officers.
• Current certification or eligibility to be certified as a Police Officer in the State of Oregon without attending the Basic Police Academy.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon or Washington State driver license prior to hire.
• Ability to pass and maintain a Criminal History Records check and Security Threat Assessment required for a PDX Security Badge.
• Physical strength and stamina required to meet performance expectations.
• Proficiency in understanding and following oral and written instructions in English.

Ability to:

• Pass a comprehensive police background check, psychological evaluation, post-offer drug test and medical examination.
• Demonstrate the Port of Portland's commitment to valuing diversity and passion for inclusivity.
• Work efficiently in complex environments, even under adverse conditions with shifting priorities.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, stakeholders, and the public.
• Solve problems effectively under high-pressure circumstances while appropriately adhering to policies and procedures.
• Promote safety as a guiding principle in all work practices.
• Exhibit respect for others and proven teamwork skills.

Skilled at:

• Effective Communication: Articulating clear, concise information while maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.
• Critical Analysis: Assessing situations swiftly and objectively to identify potential risks and determine the most appropriate response.
• Legal Acumen: Interpreting and applying laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations with precision.
• Stress Management: Handling challenging scenarios with firmness, tact, and respect for all individuals involved.
• Relationship Building: Cultivating strong partnerships through excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Report Writing: Producing precise, timely, and detailed reports with clarity and accuracy.

Supplemental and Selection Information

SELECTION PROCESS (tentative schedule):

• Application Review: Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. Human Resources will review submitted application packets for minimum qualifications. A SME panel will assess your qualifications based on the information provided in your application and responses to any supplemental questions. Applications will be periodically reviewed, with candidates shortlisted for interviews on a monthly basis.
• Interviews: After application review, successful candidates will be invited to participate in Oral Board Interviews.
• Conditional Offers: Following interviews, conditional offers of employment will be extended to selected candidates.
• Background Investigation: Candidates who receive a conditional offer will undergo a comprehensive background check, which typically takes approximately 3-4 months to complete. Once the background check is completed, final offers will be extended, and start dates will be coordinated.

About us:

At the Port of Portland, we use everything we have - our three airports, three working marine terminals, six business parks, and all the resources, expertise, and experience behind them - to move with purpose, connecting people with powerful opportunities and creating value for our region. We know that every person we hire, business we work with, contract we sign and decision we make is a chance to make someone's life better. And we'll use our power and influence to unlock new opportunities and ensure more people share in our region's success. With YOUR help - together with our partners, customers, and community - we'll help drive meaningful change!

Do you have questions about this job?

Contact us: careers@portofportland.com
Safety: The Port promotes safety as a Core value and we seek to eliminate harm through a culture of active prevention, curiosity, evaluation, and action. We comply with safety and health policies and procedures and consistently look for improvements that support operational excellence.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Port of Portland is dedicated to maintaining and improving a work environment, which extends equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation. Employment decisions shall be made in such a manner as to further the principle of equal employment opportunity and to comply with state, federal and local laws. We affirm through this policy statement our continuing commitment to the principles of nondiscrimination.

Veterans Preference: Under Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Port of Portland positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veteran's preference for this job, please provide the qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.

Background Checks and Drug Testing: The Port of Portland will conduct background checks and/or drug tests for positions where such tests are required by regulation and for other safety-sensitive positions.

ADA Accommodation: Accommodations will be considered for applicants or candidates with a qualifying disability that prevents them from participating in this process. Accommodations will be made where the Port can reasonably do so without imposing an undue hardship on the business or compromising the integrity of the recruitment process. An applicant with any disability who believes that they need an accommodation should contact Human Resources: call 503-415-6690 or email careers@portofportland.com.

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal


At the Port of Portland, we strive to offer a holistic and comprehensive benefits package for employees and their families. We care about your health by offering highly-subsidized healthcare plans that include alternative care. We look out for you and for family by paying for life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage. We participate in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement program. We provide access to additional coverage and benefits including pre-tax spending accounts, voluntary term life insurance, a deferred compensation plan, and critical illness and accident insurance policies.

We go above and beyond by offering an award-winning wellness program for all employees to engage in. Employees can tend to their physical and mental health, earn rewards, and create community. Our employee assistance program supports the Port's commitment to emotional and mental well-being by providing mental health services, discounts on local gyms, and pet insurance for companions.

Our commitment to work-life balance ensures you have time to spend with loved ones and do the things you enjoy. We offer generous vacation time that accrues with length of service, sick leave that never expires and can be used for dependent care, health maintenance and mental health, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave - all in addition to 10 paid holidays. As an added bonus - because we know employees use their time off differently - once a year we give employees the opportunity to convert sick leave to personal leave, and to convert vacation leave to either cash, a retirement plan contribution, or a contribution to a Health Savings Account.

Please note: Some benefits vary by job type/group, so please be sure to review your comprehensive benefit guide and/or collective bargaining agreement upon hire to confirm what is available to you.
01

What best describes your highest level of education?

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• Doctorate's Degree

02

Which of the following best describes your continuous years of service as a Certified Police Officer?

• Less than 3 years
• 3 complete years
• 4 complete years
• 5-9 complete years
• 10-14 complete years
• 15+ complete years

03

Please select your current certification by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).

• Basic Police Certificate
• Intermediate Police Certificate
• Advanced Police Certificate
• I do not have police certifications.
• My certifications are from another state or agency.

04

Driving a motorized vehicle is an essential function of this position. Successful applicants must possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and maintain an acceptable driving record. Do you meet this minimum qualification?

• Yes
• No

05

If you served in the U.S. Armed Forces, are requesting to use veterans' preference points, and have submitted your DD214 form, please describe in detail your training and transferable skills from your military service as they apply to the requirements of this position. Enter N/A if you do not have military service.
06

Failure to attach proper documentation, including but not limited to a cover letter, resume, education, certifications, and veterans' preference, may result in disqualification. We will not accept additional documents after your application has been submitted unless explicitly requested. Have you double-checked that all required attachments are included with your application?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Port of Portland Police Department, 7240 NE Airport Way, 3rd Floor, Portland 97218, OR
Job Type: Full-Time Represented
Job Number: 02151
Division: Aviation
Department: Aviation Security & Public Saf
Opening Date: 03/01/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt

The Position
We are hiring Lateral Police Officers for the Port of Portland!

The Port of Portland Police Department is looking for dedicated and experienced police officers to join our dynamic team. As state-certified peace officers, our police officers primarily serve at the Portland International Airport and the surrounding areas, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws and supporting federal aviation regulations.

Our department is comprised of over 65 sworn officers and 8 non-sworn staff. In addition to uniformed patrol, we offer specialized assignments in areas such as detectives, canine handlers, TriMet, Metro, bomb technicians, and task forces.

Our mission is clear: to proactively protect the safety and security of the traveling public, with a strong focus on preventing potential threats to the aviation industry.
Lateral Transfer Eligibility: To be considered as a lateral applicant, candidates must be currently certified or eligible to be certified as a Police Officer in the State of Oregon without the need to attend the Basic Police AcademyAdditionally, applicants must have at least three years of experience as a state-certified police officer.

Please note: Applicants under investigation during the background check process will not be eligible for employment.

SALARY INFORMATION:
Salary is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement and years of continuous service. Lateral Officers are credited with previous years of service for purposes of placement on the salary scale up to the top scale with a minimum of 5 years of service. All required uniforms and equipment are supplied by the police department.

Contract Salary Scale:Hourly: Salary:Start:$39.744$82,667.521 year:$42.187$87,748.962 years:$44.777$93,136.16 3 years:$47.542$98,887.36 4 years:$50.319$104,663.52 5 years+: $53.332$110,930.56
NOTE: : In addition to the base salary, officers may qualify for incentive/premium pay for certifications, special skills, and specialty assignments as outlined in the CBA. Examples include:

• 10% for DPSST Advanced certification or 5% for DPSST Intermediate certification
• 5% for working as a Detective.
• 5% for being a certified member of the Rapid Response Team (RRT)
• 3% for Language proficiency (test required)
• 6% for working as a certified Canine Handler
• 6% for working as a certified Bomb Technician
• 10% when training recruits as a Field Training Officer (FTO) or 5% when Instructing

SELECTION PROCESS:

• Application Material Review
• Oral Board Interviews
• Conditional Offer
• Successful completion of ORPAT TEST (by time of hire)
• Background Investigation (Applicants cannot be under investigation at time of background)
• Psychological Exam
• Chief's Interview
• Medical Exam
• Pre-employment drug screening
• Employment Confirmation

TESTING PROCESS:
Port of Portland Employment Application: To be considered for this position, applicants MUST complete the Port of Portland's employment application by visiting our website: Please ensure your application reflects all relevant education and experience, as incomplete applications may be rejected. Resumes are not a substitute for incomplete or partially completed applications.

Oral Board Interview: If candidates are selected for an interview, they will be notified directly that they will be moving forward in the process. Oral Board Interviews are in-person.

Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT):
If you are not a current Oregon officer or are applying from out of state, you will need to complete the Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT) as part of the hiring process. ORPAT testing is held at Chemeketa Community College in Brooks, Oregon, and must be completed by the time of hire. If you've already completed a similar test in your state, you can submit your results for evaluation. (Click for details on scheduling the ORPAT.)

Note: Applicants who have completed the ORPAT, a comparable physical abilities test, or a U.S. Military PAT within the previous six months may submit their scores for consideration. However, submitting prior scores does not guarantee exemption from the ORPAT.
Essential Job Duties

• Protect life and property at Portland International Airport (PDX).
• Patrol designated areas by vehicle, bicycle or on foot to deter crime and discover criminal activity and enforce traffic statues and ordinances.
• Communicate in person, via radios and computers to broadcast and receive information.
• Respond to reports of possible crimes and act according to the situation.
• Perform a full range of law enforcement and airport security duties, including serving search and arrest warrants, collecting evidence making arrests, and completing detailed incident reports.
• Enforce State statutes, Port, and City ordinances, issuing citations or making arrests as appropriate.
• Respond to traffic and other accidents, administer first aid, interview witnesses, and complete accident reports.
• Develop contacts to gather information about crimes and maintain intelligence on known criminal activities and suspects.
• Ensure public convenience and well-being within airport facilities, addressing inquiries, resolving complaints, and providing personal security services for public officials and other individuals as assigned.
• Provide community services and presentations, and respond promptly to the needs of airport tenants, customers, and stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience as a civilian Certified Police Officer within the United States, with preference given to active law enforcement officers.
• Current certification or eligibility to be certified as a Police Officer in the State of Oregon without attending the Basic Police Academy.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid Oregon or Washington State driver license prior to hire.
• Ability to pass and maintain a Criminal History Records check and Security Threat Assessment required for a PDX Security Badge.
• Physical strength and stamina required to meet performance expectations.
• Proficiency in understanding and following oral and written instructions in English.

Ability to:

• Pass a comprehensive police background check, psychological evaluation, post-offer drug test and medical examination.
• Demonstrate the Port of Portland's commitment to valuing diversity and passion for inclusivity.
• Work efficiently in complex environments, even under adverse conditions with shifting priorities.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, supervisors, stakeholders, and the public.
• Solve problems effectively under high-pressure circumstances while appropriately adhering to policies and procedures.
• Promote safety as a guiding principle in all work practices.
• Exhibit respect for others and proven teamwork skills.

Skilled at:

• Effective Communication: Articulating clear, concise information while maintaining composure in high-pressure situations.
• Critical Analysis: Assessing situations swiftly and objectively to identify potential risks and determine the most appropriate response.
• Legal Acumen: Interpreting and applying laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations with precision.
• Stress Management: Handling challenging scenarios with firmness, tact, and respect for all individuals involved.
• Relationship Building: Cultivating strong partnerships through excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Report Writing: Producing precise, timely, and detailed reports with clarity and accuracy.

Supplemental and Selection Information

SELECTION PROCESS (tentative schedule):

• Application Review: Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. Human Resources will review submitted application packets for minimum qualifications. A SME panel will assess your qualifications based on the information provided in your application and responses to any supplemental questions. Applications will be periodically reviewed, with candidates shortlisted for interviews on a monthly basis.
• Interviews: After application review, successful candidates will be invited to participate in Oral Board Interviews.
• Conditional Offers: Following interviews, conditional offers of employment will be extended to selected candidates.
• Background Investigation: Candidates who receive a conditional offer will undergo a comprehensive background check, which typically takes approximately 3-4 months to complete. Once the background check is completed, final offers will be extended, and start dates will be coordinated.

About us:

At the Port of Portland, we use everything we have - our three airports, three working marine terminals, six business parks, and all the resources, expertise, and experience behind them - to move with purpose, connecting people with powerful opportunities and creating value for our region. We know that every person we hire, business we work with, contract we sign and decision we make is a chance to make someone's life better. And we'll use our power and influence to unlock new opportunities and ensure more people share in our region's success. With YOUR help - together with our partners, customers, and community - we'll help drive meaningful change!

Do you have questions about this job?

Contact us: careers@portofportland.com
Safety: The Port promotes safety as a Core value and we seek to eliminate harm through a culture of active prevention, curiosity, evaluation, and action. We comply with safety and health policies and procedures and consistently look for improvements that support operational excellence.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Port of Portland is dedicated to maintaining and improving a work environment, which extends equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation. Employment decisions shall be made in such a manner as to further the principle of equal employment opportunity and to comply with state, federal and local laws. We affirm through this policy statement our continuing commitment to the principles of nondiscrimination.

Veterans Preference: Under Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Port of Portland positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veteran's preference for this job, please provide the qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.

Background Checks and Drug Testing: The Port of Portland will conduct background checks and/or drug tests for positions where such tests are required by regulation and for other safety-sensitive positions.

ADA Accommodation: Accommodations will be considered for applicants or candidates with a qualifying disability that prevents them from participating in this process. Accommodations will be made where the Port can reasonably do so without imposing an undue hardship on the business or compromising the integrity of the recruitment process. An applicant with any disability who believes that they need an accommodation should contact Human Resources: call 503-415-6690 or email careers@portofportland.com.

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal


At the Port of Portland, we strive to offer a holistic and comprehensive benefits package for employees and their families. We care about your health by offering highly-subsidized healthcare plans that include alternative care. We look out for you and for family by paying for life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage. We participate in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) retirement program. We provide access to additional coverage and benefits including pre-tax spending accounts, voluntary term life insurance, a deferred compensation plan, and critical illness and accident insurance policies.

We go above and beyond by offering an award-winning wellness program for all employees to engage in. Employees can tend to their physical and mental health, earn rewards, and create community. Our employee assistance program supports the Port's commitment to emotional and mental well-being by providing mental health services, discounts on local gyms, and pet insurance for companions.

Our commitment to work-life balance ensures you have time to spend with loved ones and do the things you enjoy. We offer generous vacation time that accrues with length of service, sick leave that never expires and can be used for dependent care, health maintenance and mental health, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave - all in addition to 10 paid holidays. As an added bonus - because we know employees use their time off differently - once a year we give employees the opportunity to convert sick leave to personal leave, and to convert vacation leave to either cash, a retirement plan contribution, or a contribution to a Health Savings Account.

Please note: Some benefits vary by job type/group, so please be sure to review your comprehensive benefit guide and/or collective bargaining agreement upon hire to confirm what is available to you.
01

What best describes your highest level of education?

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree
• Doctorate's Degree

02

Which of the following best describes your continuous years of service as a Certified Police Officer?

• Less than 3 years
• 3 complete years
• 4 complete years
• 5-9 complete years
• 10-14 complete years
• 15+ complete years

03

Please select your current certification by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST).

• Basic Police Certificate
• Intermediate Police Certificate
• Advanced Police Certificate
• I do not have police certifications.
• My certifications are from another state or agency.

04

Driving a motorized vehicle is an essential function of this position. Successful applicants must possess a valid driver's license at time of hire and maintain an acceptable driving record. Do you meet this minimum qualification?

• Yes
• No

05

If you served in the U.S. Armed Forces, are requesting to use veterans' preference points, and have submitted your DD214 form, please describe in detail your training and transferable skills from your military service as they apply to the requirements of this position. Enter N/A if you do not have military service.
06

Failure to attach proper documentation, including but not limited to a cover letter, resume, education, certifications, and veterans' preference, may result in disqualification. We will not accept additional documents after your application has been submitted unless explicitly requested. Have you double-checked that all required attachments are included with your application?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

• 

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