ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lateral Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Pasco, WA

Lateral Police Officer

Pasco, WA · On-site

$94K - $115K/yr

Public Lateral Police Officer Department: Police Department Division: Field Operations Opening Date: 12/23/2022 FLSA: Non-Exempt SUMMARY OF POSITION The Lateral Police Officer process: * Interested ...

City of Auburn, WA

Lateral Police Officer

Auburn, WA · On-site

$108K - $129K/yr

UP TO $30,000 LATERAL HIRING BONUS & TAKE HOME CAR PROGRAM The Auburn Police Department (APD) is seeking experienced, motivated, and service-driven law enforcement professionals to join our team as ...

City of Pasco

Lateral Police Officer

Pasco, WA · On-site

$94K - $115K/yr

SUMMARY OF POSITION The Lateral Police Officer process: Interested candidates reach out to a recruiter Text "JOINPPD" to 509-779-8848 OR E-mail Kaitlin Meyer, segurad@pasco-wa.gov Verified lateral ...

City of West Linn

Lateral Police officer

West Linn, OR

$39.80 - $46.60/hr

Qualifications Lateral Police Officer Requirements: Position performs all aspects of police duties. Lateral Applicants must have 2 years of prior law enforcement experience as well as a Basic ...

City of Longview, WA

Lateral Police Officer

Longview, WA · On-site

$98K - $121K/yr

Lateral Incentive - Police officer candidates meeting the criteria of "Lateral Officer" as defined in Section 7.1.1 of the City of Longview Civil Service Commission General Rules upon being hired ...

City of West Linn, OR

Lateral Police officer

West Linn, OR · On-site

$39.80 - $46.60/hr

Qualifications Lateral Police Officer Requirements: Position performs all aspects of police duties . Lateral Applicants must have 2 years of prior law enforcement experience as well as a Basic ...

City of Decatur

Lateral Police Patrol Officer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Persons may apply as a lateral police officer if certified as a full-time police officer in the State of Illinois. There is no requirement for prior service length. Proof of certification as a ...

City of Longview WA

Lateral Police Officer

Longview, WA

$98K - $121K/yr

Lateral Incentive - Police officer candidates meeting the criteria of "Lateral Officer" as defined in Section 7.1.1 of the City of Longview Civil Service Commission General Rules upon being hired ...

City of Richland

$46.53 - $52.77/hr

Lateral Police Officers start at Step C: $48.95 (Hourly) Position Salary Range: $46.53 - $52.77 (Hourly) GENERAL SUMMARY Under the direction of a Police Sergeant or designee, performs police ...

City of Port Orchard

Lateral Police Officer

Port Orchard, WA · On-site

$47.41 - $54.03/hr

A Lateral Police Officer who has completed the Washington State Basic Law Enforcement Academy or is eligible to attend the Washington Law Enforcement Equivalency Academy and met all other criteria to ...

City of Frostburg, MD

Lateral Police Officer

Frostburg, MD · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

Starting wage/salary for a lateral police officer will depend on education and experience. Only apply if you are currently a certified law enforcement officer. Applicants that are not a certified ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLateral Police Jobs

Lateral Police information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do lateral police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 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.

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.
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:
What job categories do people searching Lateral Police jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lateral Police jobs are:
Lateral Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lateral Police job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Lateral Police Officer

Lateral Police Officer

Village of Lincolnwood

Lincolnwood, IL • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

The Lincolnwood Police Department is accepting applications for Lateral Police Officer.
Hiring Range: $89,693.09 - $115,140.60
Salary Range: $82,808.64 - $117,454.92
* Current Collective Bargaining agreement ends in 2026, and the top pay after 15 years of service will be $120,978.
The Village of Lincolnwood also offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that includes Blue Cross PPO and High Deductible Medical Coverage, Delta Dental PPO and HMO plans, life insurance, vision insurance, paid time off and pension benefits. Applicants can find the general description of benefits in the Summary of Benefits Document posted on the website. All other benefits can be found in the Collective Bargaining Agreement .
Qualifications of Certified Entry Program for Police Officers
All persons possessing certification from the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board may be considered for accelerated entry (referred to as "certified entry candidates"). Certified entry candidates selected must first meet all the following criteria:
  • Current status as an ILETSB certified police officer and successfully completing the probationary period; and
  • Currently in good standing in the police department in which the person serves; and
  • Possesses substantially equivalent skills and abilities as a Village of Lincolnwood Police Officer, as determined by the Village; and
  • Has at least 60 semester (90 quarter) hours of credit from a college or university accredited by one of the six regional accrediting bodies responsible for evaluating two- and four-year institutions that grant associate's or bachelor's degrees; or at least four years of continuous active duty in the armed forces of the United States; and
  • Taken and passed such examinations as the Board deems necessary to determine fitness for duty as a police officer with the Village.

Certified entry candidates who have been determined by the Board to meet the aforementioned requirements will not be required to attend an orientation or take the written entry level examination for police officer. For such candidates, the examination process may consist of an administrative interview, background investigation, oral interview by the Board, polygraph, psychological, physical agility examination (P.O.W.E.R. Test) and medical examination, including drug screen.
Application Process:
To apply, complete the Police Lateral application of employment. The Village will continue to accept applications until September 30, 2025

Apply