News

City Of Wapato Is Hiring a Lateral Police Officer.

                       CITY OF WAPATO, WASHINGTON

LATERAL POLICE OFFICER – NOW HIRING

The City of Wapato Police Department is accepting applications for Lateral Police Officers to join our professional and community-focused law enforcement team.

Wapato is a close-knit community in the heart of Yakima County. Our officers play a vital role in maintaining public safety, building trust, and making a meaningful impact every day.

POSITION SUMMARY

Lateral Police Officers perform general law enforcement duties including patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, community engagement, and response to calls for service. Officers are expected to exercise sound judgment, professionalism, and integrity while serving the public.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Currently employed or had been employed as a full-time, commissioned law enforcement officer in the last three years
• Must have successfully completed a state-certified police academy
• Eligible for Washington State equivalency or certification
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Ability to meet all Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC) requirements
• No disqualifying criminal history

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prior patrol or investigative experience
• Experience in community-oriented policing
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

SALARY & BENEFITS

• Competitive lateral pay placement based on experience
• Washington State LEOFF retirement
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Uniforms and duty equipment provided
• Ongoing training and professional development

(Exact salary and benefits determined by current labor agreement)

HIRING PROCESS

• Application review
• Oral board interview
• Background investigation
• Polygraph examination
• Psychological evaluation
• Medical examination

Laterals may be eligible for an abbreviated hiring and training process, depending on certification status.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit:

• A completed City of Wapato employment application
• Resume
• Copy of law enforcement certification 

Applications may be submitted to:

Wapato City Hall 

205 East Third St.

Wapato, WA 98951

509-877-2334

Wapato Police Department

607 West Third St.

Wapato, WA 98951

509-877-4275

EOE STATEMENT

The City of Wapato is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.