ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Detective Lateral Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Douglas County (OR)

Lateral - Patrol Deputy

Roseburg, OR · On-site

$32.99 - $42.14/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

THE POSITION LATERAL TRANSFER OPPORTUNITY FOR DPSST-CERTIFIED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS Position ... detection screen. Physical Examination/Drug Screen: Employment is contingent upon a pre-employment ...

City of Tacoma, WA

Police Officer (Experienced Lateral)

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$98K - $136K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Law Enforcement Actions and Investigations Detect, apprehend, and arrest suspects; execute warrants ... Lateral Entry Officers perform general duty police work involving the protection of life and ...

City of Puyallup

$122K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Definition LATERAL OFFICER INCENTIVES Hiring Bonus of $30,000 for Lateral Police Officers hired by ... ISU Detective 7.5%; Police Training Officer 5%; Canine Officers, Metro Cities SWAT, School ...

City of Issaquah

Police Officer - Lateral

Issaquah, WA

$98K - $129K/yr

... Detective: 4% of monthly rate of pay Corporal Pay: 6.5% of monthly rate of pay Range Master: 2% of ... Lateral applicants are NOT required to complete a Physical Agility Test. Must pass physical and ...

City of Bexley, OH

Police Officer - LATERAL

Bexley, OH · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lateral Eligibility Process: Human Resources will review applications for minimum qualifications on ... Patrols assigned areas by vehicle, foot, bike, or other mode to deter and detect criminal activity,

City of Issaquah, WA

Police Officer - Lateral

Issaquah, WA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Detective: 4% of monthly rate of pay Corporal Pay: 6.5% of monthly rate of pay Range Master: 2% of ... Lateral applicants are NOT required to complete a Physical Agility Test. Must pass physical and ...

City of Shawnee

Police Officer - Lateral

Shawnee, KS · On-site

$104K/yr

Daily routines require taking calls for service, patrolling to deter and detect crime ... Lateral Applicants can apply at any time and will either join ongoing recruit officer processes or ...

Port of Portland, OR

Police Officer - Lateral

Portland, OR · On-site

$93K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lateral Officers are credited with previous years of service for purposes of placement on the ... as a Detective. * 5% for being a certified member of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) * 3% for ...

City of Shawnee

Police Officer - Lateral

Shawnee, KS

$104K/yr

Daily routines require taking calls for service, patrolling to deter and detect crime ... Lateral Applicants can apply at any time and will either join ongoing recruit officer processes or ...

City of Bexley (OH)

Police Officer - LATERAL

Columbus, OH · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Lateral Eligibility Process: Human Resources will review applications for minimum qualifications on ... Responsibilities Patrols assigned areas by vehicle, foot, bike, or other mode to deter and detect ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsDetective Lateral Jobs

Detective Lateral information

See salary details

$29K

$61.9K

$98.5K

How much do detective lateral jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for detective lateral in the United States is $61,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $71,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a detective lateral, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Detective Lateral, you need a solid background in law enforcement, investigative procedures, and a proven track record as a police officer, often requiring prior detective or specialized investigative experience. Familiarity with case management systems, evidence tracking software, and sometimes certifications in criminal investigations or forensic analysis are typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective interpersonal communication are crucial soft skills for interviewing witnesses, collaborating with colleagues, and preparing cases. These skills and qualifications are vital for conducting thorough investigations, ensuring justice, and maintaining public trust.

What is a detective lateral?

A Detective Lateral is a law enforcement officer who transfers into a detective position from another police department or agency, rather than starting as a new recruit. These professionals already have experience as police officers and often have investigative experience as well. The lateral transfer process allows agencies to hire seasoned detectives who can quickly contribute to ongoing investigations. This can help fill critical roles without the need for extensive retraining or probationary periods. Lateral detectives typically undergo a background check and may complete a modified field training program to familiarize themselves with the new department's procedures.

What is the difference between Detective Lateral vs Police Officer?

AspectDetective LateralPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training, detective-specific experienceHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentInvestigations, case analysis, undercover workPatrol, community engagement, basic law enforcement duties
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, detective unitsPolice departments, law enforcement agencies

Detective Lateral and Police Officer roles both require law enforcement credentials and serve within police departments. However, detectives focus on investigations and case-solving, while police officers handle patrol and community policing. The lateral position allows experienced officers to transition directly into detective roles without starting from entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges detectives face when transitioning laterally from another agency?

Detectives making a lateral move often encounter challenges such as adapting to new departmental procedures, learning a different case management system, and building trust with new colleagues. Each agency may have unique protocols and expectations, so flexibility and strong communication skills are essential. Additionally, integrating into established investigative teams can require patience and a proactive approach to relationship-building. However, previous investigative experience typically helps lateral detectives acclimate more quickly and contribute valuable insights.
More about Detective Lateral jobs

What cities are hiring for Detective Lateral jobs?

Cities with the most Detective Lateral job openings:

What states have the most Detective Lateral jobs?

States with the most job openings for Detective Lateral jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Detective Lateral jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Detective Lateral jobs are:

Detective Lateral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detective Lateral job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,905 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Police Officer (Lateral Transfer)

City of Loveland, CO

Loveland, CO • On-site

$93K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

City Of Loveland (Colorado) rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

663rd of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

WE ENCOURAGE ALL APPLICANTS TO GO ON A RIDE ALONG PRIOR TO APPLYING/INTERVIEWING FOR THE POSITION.

RESUMES AND COVER LETTERS MUST BE ATTACHED FOR CONSIDERATION.

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ATTIRE RECOMMENDED FOR ANY IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS

»» Continuous Recruitment Process: This posting is to fill multiple vacancies and establish an eligibility list. ««

We advise out of state applicants not to apply for their provisional POST Certification until AFTER a final job offer is extended due to the limited time that a provisional POST is valid. 

The Loveland Police Department offers extensive training for individuals hired as Police Officers. Training can take between 6 to 12 months from the date of hire. Police Officers hired by the Loveland Police Department are required to attend a 6-week pre-service and a 4-month field training program. Recruit Police Officers are required to attend those training programs as well as a 4-month Police academy. During those training programs, vacations and additional time off may not be granted due to the training schedule, instructor availability, and attendance requirements.

$15,000 HIRING BONUS for Lateral Transfers

  • $7,500 upon successful completion of Field Training
  • $7,500 upon completion of 12-month probation period 

To view additional police department specific benefits: https://www.lovelandpd.org/about/join-the-lpd.

TO QUALIFY AS A LATERAL TRANSFER OFFICER

-  Must possess at least two (2) years patrol experience as a SWORN full-time law enforcement officer (equivalent to a peace officer under CRS 16-2.5-101) 

  • Patrol experience includes: Responding to calls for service, community policing, conducting traffic enforcement including impaired driving enforcement, drafting search warrants and affidavits, making physical, custodial arrests upon probable cause, and conducting proactive law enforcement activity.      

-  Must have satisfactorily completed a formal or informal field training program       

-  Transfers from detention, corrections, parole, and/or probation assignments do not qualify as lateral transfer officers.  

LATERAL HIRING SALARY
Lateral I [2 to 3 years experience]
  • $93,695.75 per year
  • $101,077.83 per year after 12-month probation period
  • $15,000 hiring bonus
Lateral II [3-5 years experience]
  • $101,077.83per year
  • $108,800.63 after 12-month probation period  
  • $15,000 hiring bonus 
Lateral III [5+ years experience]
  • $108,800.63 per year
  • $116,182.72 after 12-month probation period 
  • $15,000 hiring bonus 
LATERAL SELECTION PROCESS
  • Pre-Interview Questionnaire 
  • Physical Test
  • Initial/Executive Oral Board Interview 
  • Conditional Job Offer
  • Background Investigation

[Expected length of selection process from application to hire is 3 to 6 months] 

OUR POSITION
Patrol the City of Loveland to detect and/or deter illegal activities in order to preserve and protect the safety and security of persons and property. Must be able to act without direct supervision and to exercise independent judgment in meeting complex emergency situations.
 
1.     Responsible for effective incident evaluation, including
·       Responding to calls for service.
·       Obtaining appropriate information at the scene.
·       Accurately evaluating information.
·       Determining priority of action at the scene and whether it is criminal or civil in matter.
·       Collecting, identifying, and preserving evidence and personal property.
·       Gathering information through interview and interrogation techniques, and making legal admonishments when appropriate.
2.      Responsible to arrest, detain, search, and preserve safety, including
·       Approaching and detaining subjects.
·       Making arrests, forcibly if necessary, this may require bending, twisting, sufficient physical strength, grasping, kneeling, lifting, occasional awkward movements and physical exertion.
·       Restraining and subduing suspects when necessary.
·       Using reasonable and the appropriate amount of force when necessary
·       Legally searching people and property.
·       Applying appropriate safety precautions in hazardous and potentially dangerous situations.
·       Exercise independent judgment in determining when and to what extent force may be used, and when there is reasonable suspicion to detain or probable cause to search and arrest.  
3.      Responsible to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing, while providing appropriate public service and interaction, including    
·       Using appropriate oral and written communication to provide law enforcement information and explanations.
·       Thoroughly prepares written reports and properly utilizes computers and other issued technical equipment, data resources to communicate effectively. This may require sitting, typing at a desk and in a vehicle, and viewing a computer screen for extended periods of time.
·       Demonstrating effective communication utilizing a two-way radio requiring the ability to talk and hear.  
·       Demonstrates effective oral communication with the public and members of the department in English.        
4.      Responsible for patrolling, including
·       Performing patrol activities in assigned area. This includes the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle for extended periods of time, during all hours of the day, in daylight and at night, in all types of weather, under routine and emergent conditions.
·       Observing conditions and initiating appropriate action to potential hazards and suspicious or criminal activity.   This requires specific vision abilities including: close vision, distance vision, low light vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, ability to adjust focus, and ability to drive at night. 
·       Enforcing laws and ordinances, as well as monitoring and enforcing traffic codes.
5.      Must be able to effectively use legal and department knowledge, including
·       Demonstrating working knowledge of laws, codes, and legal procedures in all areas of law enforcement.
·       Testify in civil and criminal court on behalf of the police department.
·       Serving summonses and arrest warrants.
·       Demonstrating working knowledge of department polices procedures and conduct.
·       Keeping current on laws and relevant legal opinions.
·       Participate in all required training.
·       Adhering to an exemplary law enforcement code of conduct while on or off duty.
·       Functioning effectively within the prescribed chain of command.
 
OTHER DUTIES:
·       Accountable for all duties of this job; other projects and responsibilities may be added at the City's discretion.
·       Perform duties and tasks as assigned.
·       Collateral assignments/specialized assignments as described in the Loveland Police Department policies and procedures.
 
OUR CANDIDATE
  • Must be at least 21 years old at time of application.
  • Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification from an approved academy [or provisional certificate by hire date] is required.  
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must be able to legally possess and carry a firearm. Must meet physical ability test standards set forth in Loveland Police Department Directives. Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language as determined by the LPD officer selection process. 
 
Working Environment:
Must be able to perform the following physical requirements: walking, standing, running, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, crawling, bending, climbing, feeling, talking, seeing (includes distinguishing color), hearing and conducting repetitive motions. Must possess necessary motor skills to operate a vehicle, mobile and portable radios, firearms, police baton, speed measuring equipment, mace, electronic control device, sobriety testing equipment, computer/typewriter keyboard, telephone, handcuffs, direct traffic and to arrest combative person. Ability to run to apprehend a fleeing subject or to run to safety when confronted with certain situations. Ability to use strength and quickness to rescue endangered persons. Ability to separate individuals fighting or preparing to fight. Ability to function for extended periods of time with little rest or sleep.

Material and Equipment Directly Used: 
Motor vehicle, handgun, shoulder arms, intermediate weapons such as mace, conducted electrical weapon, collapsible or straight baton, handcuffs, computer, police radio, telephone (mobile and traditional office systems), speed measuring equipment, Intoxilyzer machine and flashlight. 

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.
  
Employment offers will be conditional on an extensive background investigation, criminal, driving record and credit check, polygraph examination, psychological examination, physical requirements assessment and drug screening.
APPLICANTS WHO ARE UNSUCCESSFUL IN THE SELECTION PROCESS MAY APPLY FOR FUTURE OPENINGS.
 
The City of Loveland is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation. We encourage, value and respect diversity.
 

Beginning on 8/1/2023, The City of Loveland will begin participating in E-Verify. In accordance with E-Verify requirements, upon your date of hire the City of Loveland will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. E-Verify Notice of Participation. Learn more about your right to work. Visit E-Verify.gov for more information.

What City Of Loveland (Colorado) employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply