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Lateral Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

June 18, 2025 The City of Redding is accepting applications for the position of Lateral Police Officer within the Redding Police Department. We are seeking motivated individuals with a strong ...

Lateral Police Officer: The Redding Police Department is now offering up to a $60,000 signing bonus to qualified Lateral Police Officers as well as two weeks of vacation upon successful completion of ...

Lateral Police Officer

Fife, WA · On-site

$6K - $8K/mo

Lateral Police Officer hires from another law enforcement agency either in-state or out-of-state shall receive a $10,000 hiring bonus, payable as follows: a. $5,000 will be paid on the first ...

Lateral Police Officer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$35.87 - $51.98/hr

LATERAL POLICE OFFICER PAY RATES: * Less than 1 year experience starts out at $35.87 per hour * 1 year experience = $37.66 (5% above the minimum of the range) * 2 years of experience = $39.55 (5% ...

LATERAL POLICE OFFICER PAY RATES: * Less than 1 year experience starts out at $35.87 per hour * 1 year experience = $37.66 (5% above the minimum of the range) * 2 years of experience = $39.55 (5% ...

Lateral Police Officer

Fife, WA · On-site

$91K - $119K/yr

Lateral Police Officer hires from another law enforcement agency either in-state or out-of-state shall receive a $10,000 hiring bonus, payable as follows: a. $5,000 will be paid on the first ...

General Description Ready for a Change? We're looking for Lateral Police Officers! The Albany Police Department is currently seeking to fill multiple police officer positions due to recent and ...

We're looking for Lateral Police Officers. The Albany Police Department is currently seeking to fill multiple police officer positions due to recent and upcoming retirements. Additionally, this ...

Lateral Police Officer

Fife, WA · On-site

$6K - $8K/mo

Lateral Police Officer hires from another law enforcement agency either in-state or out-of-state shall receive a $10,000 hiring bonus, payable as follows: a. $5,000 will be paid on the first ...

Lateral Police Officer

Albany, OR · On-site

$76K - $96K/yr

If you do not meet the definition for a lateral police officer as noted below, please apply through our Entry Level posting, if currently open. Entry level applications submitted through this posting ...

Regardless of verified years of experience, lateral police officer hourly rates are capped at $50.47 per hour. HIRING INCENTIVE: $5,000 paid in two installments, $2,500 paid upon hire with first ...

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Lateral Police information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do lateral police jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for lateral police in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lateral Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lateral Police Officer, you need prior law enforcement experience, POST certification, a solid understanding of criminal and civil law, and often a clean background check. Familiarity with police databases, body-worn camera systems, and evidence management tools is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers effectively interact with diverse communities and handle stressful situations. These competencies ensure public safety, uphold legal standards, and foster trust within the community.

What is the difference between Lateral Police vs Police Officer?

AspectLateral PolicePolice Officer
Required CredentialsPolice academy certification, law enforcement training, state licensingPolice academy certification, law enforcement training, state licensing
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, investigationsLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, investigations
Employer & IndustryMunicipal, county, state police departmentsMunicipal, county, state police departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding lateral transfer options, qualifications, career pathsEntry-level roles, career progression, job duties

Both Lateral Police and Police Officers require similar credentials and work in law enforcement environments. The key difference is that Lateral Police are experienced officers transferring from other agencies, while Police Officers are typically new recruits. Lateral Police often have prior experience, making their transition smoother, whereas Police Officers are starting their careers. Understanding these differences helps candidates identify the right role based on their experience level and career goals.

What are some common challenges faced by lateral police officers when transitioning to a new department?

Lateral police officers often face challenges adjusting to new departmental procedures, community expectations, and team dynamics. While their prior experience is valuable, learning a new agency’s policies, software systems, and patrol areas can require additional training and adaptation. Building trust with new colleagues and supervisors may also take time, as each department has its own culture and operational style. However, many departments offer structured onboarding and field training programs to support lateral hires during this transition.

What is a lateral police officer?

A lateral police officer is an experienced law enforcement professional who transfers from one police department to another, typically bringing prior training, experience, and certifications. Unlike entry-level recruits, lateral officers usually do not need to repeat basic police academy training and may qualify for higher pay and faster integration based on their background. Agencies often seek lateral candidates to quickly fill vacancies with seasoned personnel familiar with police procedures and community policing.
More about Lateral Police jobs
What cities are hiring for Lateral Police jobs? Cities with the most Lateral Police job openings:
What states have the most Lateral Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Lateral Police jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lateral Police job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Lateral Police Officer

City of Farmington, NM

Farmington, NM • On-site

$31.01 - $41.87/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

JOB OPENING CITY OF FARMINGTON JOB POSITION #92: LATERAL POLICE OFFICER NUMBER OF VACANCIES: 1+ DEPARTMENT: Police/Operations WORK LOCATION: Farmington Police Department PAY CLASS: PU1 HIRING RANGE: $31.0063 - $41.8678 - DOE DAYS WORKED: Varied HOURS WORKED: Varied TYPE OF POSITION: Regular, Full-Time, Shift POSITION CLOSES: Wednesday, September 30, 2026 JOB DUTIES You must submit the following documents when applying for Lateral Police Officer: * Completed City of Farmington Application * Copies of all advanced law enforcement training hours * Course curriculum from the academy you attended * Please send a syllabus or class schedule that lists the names of all classes and the amount of hours for each class. You will receive emails regarding all processes and purchasing of study materials as you apply - please thoroughly read any and all emails and follow the instructions. To be eligible for a Lateral Police Officer position with the City of Farmington, you must possess a current law enforcement certification in the State of New Mexico or be eligible for Certification by Waiver within the state. IN-STATE: Lateral Police Officers will be eligible for the $29,100 sign-on bonus, the requirement is a commitment to three years of continuous employment as a Police Officer with the City of Farmington. Please not the following sign-on bonus structure: * $9,700 upon hire * $9,700 upon successful completion of Field Training Program * $9,700 upon successful completion of probation. This final payment is subject to reimbursement contingent that the officer commits to three years of continuous employment as a Police Officer with the City of Farmington. OUT OF STATE: Lateral Police Officers will be eligible for a 15,000 sign-on bonus Please note the following sign-on bonus structure: * $5,000 upon date of hire. * $5,000 upon successful completion of Field Training Program * 5,000 upon successful completion of probation. This final payment is subject to reimbursement contingent that the officer commits to three years of continuous employment as a Police Officer with the City of Farmington. ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Required to perform shift work which may include days, evenings, and nights including weekends and holidays. Works on performing security patrols, traffic control, investigation and first aid at accidents, detection, investigation and arrest of persons involved in crimes or misconduct. Works an assigned shift using own judgment in deciding course of action being expected to handle difficult and emergency situations without assistance. Maintains normal availability by radio or telephone to respond to police matters. Carries out duties in conformance with Federal, State, County, and City laws and ordinances. Patrols City streets, parks, commercial and residential areas to preserve the peace and enforce the law, control vehicular traffic, prevent or detect and investigate misconduct involving misdemeanors, felonies and other law violations; and to otherwise serve and protect. Responds to emergency radio calls and investigates accidents, robberies, civil disturbances, domestic disputes, fights, drunkenness, missing children, prowlers, abuse of drugs, etc.

Takes appropriate law enforcement action. Interrogates suspects, witnesses and drivers. Preserves evidence. Arrests or cites violators.

Investigates and renders assistance at scene of vehicular accidents. Summons ambulances and other law enforcement vehicles. Takes measurements and draws diagrams of scene. Conducts follow-up investigations of crimes committed during assigned shift.

Seeks out and questions victims, witnesses and suspects. Develops leads and tips. Searches scene of crimes for clues.

Evaluates evidence and arrests offenders. Prepares cases for giving testimony and testifies in court proceedings. Prepares a variety of reports such as offense/incidents, field interrogation cards, DWI, towed vehicle, and accident reports. Undertakes community oriented police work, and assists citizens with such matters as stalled vehicles, crime prevention, drug abuse, traffic and bicycle safety, etc. Participates in investigating criminal law violations occurring within the City limits, obtaining evidence and compiling information regarding these crimes, preparing cases for filing charges, testifying in court, and related activities. Conducts patrol activities including directing traffic, investigation of reported or observed violations of law, and conduction patrol activities. Coordinates activities with other officers or other City departments as needed, exchanges information with officers in other law enforcement agencies, and obtains advice from the City Attorney or district attorney's office regarding cases, policies and procedures as needed and assigned. Maintains contact with police supervisory personnel to coordinate investigation activities, provide mutual assistance during emergency situations and provides general information about department activities. Using excellent customer service skills establishes and maintains effective working relationships with other employees, officials, and all members of the general public. Operates a motor vehicle to carry out the business of the department and the City. Attendance at work is an essential function of this position. NON-ESSENTIAL DUTIES: Ability to operate or quickly learn to operate a personal computer using standard or customized software applications appropriate to assigned tasks. Ability and willingness to quickly learn and put to use new skills and knowledge brought about by rapidly changing information and/or technology. Maintains departmental equipment, supplies and facilities. Maintains contact with general public, court officials, and other City officials in the performance of police operating activities. May serve as a member of various employee committees. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. QUALIFICATIONS This position is subject to the City of Farmington's Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy which includes, pre-employment testing, post-accident testing, random testing, reasonable suspicion testing, return to duty testing, and follow-up testing. Extensive background checks required. Felony convictions and disqualifying criminal histories are not allowed. Must have LE certification. Must not have used any illegal drugs within the past three years. Must be of good moral character and of temperate and industrious habits. Must be a United States Citizen. Must be 21 years or older at the time of employment. Must have completed 669 law enforcement training hours (Academy Training, Advanced Training, or combination of both). Must have ability to become a certified law enforcement officer in the State of New Mexico within three year. Must have all advanced certificates available for review. Must submit a copy of course curriculum from police academy attended. Must possess, or be able to obtain by time of hire, a valid New Mexico driver's license with acceptable driving record for past three years. Must be able to read and write the English language. Must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Ability to learn the applicable laws, ordinances and department rules and regulations. Ability to perform work requiring good physical condition. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, peers and supervisors. Ability to exercise sound judgment in evaluating situations and in making decisions. Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.

Ability to learn the City's geography. TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED: Ability to operate a police car, police radio, radar gun, handgun and other weapons as required, straight baton, handcuffs, breathalyzer, cell phone, on-board video camera, first aid equipment and chemical agent. Extensive use of computers for dispatching, reporting and communicating is required. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to frequently lift and/or move heavy objects or persons. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Must be able to sit, stand, talk and hear.

Must be able to use hands and fingers to feel objects or controls. Must be able to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, run and physically subdue combative subjects. The employee is required to perform shift work which may include days, evenings, and nights including weekends and holidays. REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS: Written exam; oral board interview; psychological examinations (both written and oral); polygraph examination; medical examination; and extensive background investigation. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed inside/outside in all types of weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER, M/F.