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Lateral Police Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

Fuquay-Varina, NC

Police Officer I

Fuquay Varina, NC · On-site

$60K - $96K/yr

Police Division: Sworn Opening Date: 09/24/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Working Hours: Shift Pay ... Lateral Bonus for NC Certified Officers $1,000 * Military Bonus $1,000 (Honorable Discharge)

City of Raleigh, NC

Police Officer Recruit

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

Police Administrative Services Opening Date: 05/28/2026 Closing Date: 9/2/2026 11:59 PM Eastern ... Vision corrected to 20/20 and cannot be colorblind Additional Information Lateral-entry officers ...

Durham County

DEPUTY SHERIFF LATERAL

Durham, NC · On-site

$89K/yr

General knowledge of police methods, practices, and procedures. * General knowledge of the geography of the County and location of important buildings * Thorough knowledge of the rules and ...

All JobsLateral Police JobsLateral Police Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Lateral Police information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$31.6K

$60.4K

$100.6K

How much do lateral police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for lateral police in Raleigh, NC is $60,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $72,400.00 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.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Lateral police officers often start their careers after gaining experience as a police officer or in related fields, and 27 is generally not too late to pursue this path. Many departments accept candidates in their late 20s or early 30s, provided they meet age, fitness, and background requirements, and have relevant law enforcement experience or training. Age limits vary by department, so checking specific agency criteria is recommended.

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 a law enforcement professional who transfers from another police agency with prior experience, often requiring them to meet specific qualifications and pass a background check. They typically undergo a shortened training process compared to new recruits and are expected to adapt quickly to their new department's policies and procedures.

What are good side jobs for police officers?

Police officers often pursue side jobs such as security consulting, private security, or teaching defensive tactics, leveraging their law enforcement skills. These roles typically require additional certifications and can provide flexible schedules outside of regular shifts.

How much does a lateral police officer make?

A lateral police officer's salary typically ranges from $55,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and department size. Many agencies offer additional benefits such as overtime pay, shift differentials, and opportunities for advancement.
What are popular job titles related to Lateral Police jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Lateral Police jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lateral Police jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Lateral Police jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Lateral Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lateral Police job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,410 per year, or $29 per hour.

Police Officer - Trainee through Police Corporal - Certified/Lateral

Town of Hillsborough, NC

NC • On-site

$51K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Salary: $51,691.00 - $103,487.00 Annually
Location : Town Hall Campus, NC
Job Type: Regular, Full-time
Department: Police
Division: Police-Operations
Opening Date: 02/12/2020
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs if they believe they are unable to perform every task on a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. That candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. The town will consider any equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.
About the Position
The Hillsborough Police Department is looking for individuals of high moral character with a genuine desire to serve and make a difference to become part of our team. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds.
Job Duties
Police officers are responsible for patrolling of town streets and neighborhoods to deter crime or apprehend and/or arrest violators or suspects, responding to calls for law enforcement assistance, gathering information for criminal investigations, and meeting with and working with community members. Fluency in a foreign language is desired (Spanish preferred). A valid North Carolina Driver's License is required.
Position Qualifications
The hiring process varies depending on candidates' backgrounds. For candidates who are enrolled in or have completed BLET, the hiring process includes:
  • Application - Hillsborough accepts applications online through the town's employment website.
  • Written testing
  • Physical assessment
  • Panel and individual interviews
  • Background investigation
  • If a conditional offer is made, a medical evaluation, psychological evaluation, preemployment drug screening, and polygraph testing (where applicable) will be required.

Supplemental Information
Hiring range for officers who have completed BLET: $54,912 - $94,573
A competitive benefits package is provided. For lateral hires, experience incentives are available. The Police Career Progression System offers professional development and advancement opportunities. More details, including take home vehicles and specialization matrix, are available on the department's website.
It's preferred that two forms are completed and attached to your online application. You may access a blank copy of each form by clicking the hyperlinks: 1) , 2) or copy and paste the following URL in to your browser, https://www.hillsboroughnc.gov/about-us/departments/police/join-hpd
If you cannot add the forms in the attachments section of your application, please email your completed forms to Human Resources Analyst Eli Valsing at
The Hillsborough Police Department position vacancies are variable. Your application will remain on file for one year and will be considered as openings occur. Please reapply after one year if you have continuing interest in this employment opportunity.
For more information, see the recruiting page on the Town of Hillsborough website.
A competitive benefits package is provided:
  • 12 paid vacation days/year
  • 12 paid sick days/year
  • 12-13 paid holidays/year
  • Bereavement leave
  • Paid voting leave
  • 6 weeks paid parental leave
  • Employer-paid medical insurance for employee, up to an annual value of $11,363 (2026-27)
  • Employer-paid dental insurance for employee, an annual value of $374 (2026-27)
  • Employer-paid vision insurance
  • Employer-paid life insurance
  • Employer- paid short-term disability insurance
  • Three retirement plans
    • Local Government Retirement System with 13% contribution by the town
    • 401(k) plan with 5%contribution by the town
    • 457
  • Longevity pay plan
  • Employee Assistance Counseling Program
  • Skills training for career progression
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Student loan and college planning support
  • Potential for relocation assistance
  • Flexible work schedule (dependent on position and approval)
  • Transfer of sick leave from another North Carolina state or local government agency will be considered

Employees have the option to cover their dependents including spouse, domestic partner, and children on the town's group policy at their own expense through payroll deduction.
01
Are you currently certified as a law enforcement officer?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you completed (or are you currently enrolled with an anticipated completion date in the next 3 months) North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET)?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you have not been to BLET, are you interested in a sponsorship to attend BLET if there are no hiring opportunities at this time or if you are not selected for hiring?When an individual is sponsored to attend BLET, they are attending as a private person and are not employed nor is it an offer of employment. Sponsorship does allow the community college to waive the tuition associated with BLET (~$900). Costs for books, materials and uniforms associated with attending the BLET program are the responsibility of the individual.
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you possess a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
  • No, but I can have a valid driver's license upon hire.

05
Please indicate your proficiency in Spanish.
  • I cannot read, write or speak Spanish
  • I am proficient at reading and writing in Spanish
  • I am proficient at speaking Spanish
  • I am fluent in reading, writing and speaking Spanish

06
I have the ability to speak, read, and/or write a language other than English.
  • Yes
  • No

07
If yes, list the language(s) you speak, read, and/or write.
08
It's highly recommended that you complete the following forms and submit the completed forms via the attachments section of your online application. If you cannot attach either document to your application, please email the completed form(s) to haley.bizzell@hillsboroughnc.gov. You may access a blank copy of each form by clicking the hyperlinks: 1) , 2)
Did you attach the completed forms?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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