Police Officer (Lateral)

Description

For detailed information on this recruitment process, please view the Join QCPD page on the Town’s website. Additional information about this exciting opportunity can be found in the QCPD Recruitment Flyer.

APPLICATION PROCESS - IMPORTANT INFORMATION - PLEASE READ

This job posting will run continuously until filled. First review of applications will be September 30, 2025. Applications will be reviewed on a monthly basis thereafter. Please note that this job posting may close at any time without notice after the first review date of September 30, 2025.

OFFICER SALARY

QCPD will offer pay rates commensurate with years of sworn service:

Less than 1 year: $35.88/hour ($74,641/year)

1 to < 2 years: $37.67/hour ($78,373/year)

2 to < 3 years: $39.56/hour ($82,292/year)

3 to < 4 years: $41.54/hour ($86,406/year)

4 to < 5 years: $43.61/hour ($90,727/year)

5 to < 6 years: $45.79/hour ($95,263/year)

6 to < 7 years: $48.08/hour ($100,026/year)

7 years: $50.49 ($105,027/year)

This job classification is FLSA Non-Exempt.

HIRING BONUS

All hiring bonuses are listed as the net-pay you will receive.

• Lateral Officer incentive pay is $15,500 payable as follows:
• $3,000 after hire date.
• $2,500 after successful completion of Field Training.
• $5,000 after successful completion of your probation.
• $2,500 after the successful completion of 1 year (after probation)
• $2,500 after the successful completion of 2 years (after probation)
  

EDUCATION BONUS

All educational bonuses are listed as the net-pay you will receive.

• The degree must be from an accredited college or university with major course work in criminal justice studies, social sciences, business management, leadership, forensic science, psychology, or other degree related to the core functions of your position.
• The degree must be earned/awarded prior to your hire date. If you earn a degree following your hire date, you may qualify for a different educational incentive provided by the Town. More information will be provided during your initial orientation.
• If you have earned multiple degrees, you will receive the incentive specified for the highest degree earned/presented.
• The incentive will be paid after successful completion of your probation.
• The incentive is as follows:
• Associate Degree: $500
• Bachelor Degree: $1,000
• Masters (or higher): $1,500

MOVING EXPENSES

All moving expenses are listed as the net-pay you will receive.

If a police department employee moves to within 30 miles of the Town borders after receiving a final offer of employment, that individual may be eligible for a one-time payment of potential expenses.*

• Guidelines for this payment are as follows:
• In-state (Arizona) move under 90 miles: $250
• In-state (Arizona) move over 90 miles: $500
• Out-of-state move: $3,000
• The costs/expenses incurred must be between the date a FINAL offer of employment letter is received and one year from date of hire. Any exceptions must be authorized by the Chief of Police.
  
  
PAID VACATION TIME & SICK TIME


• For the lateral officer, at the time of hire you will receive a one-time addition of 80 hours of vacation time and 80 hours of sick time.
• Vacation accrual rates will be adjusted based on prior full years of (sworn) service.
  
  
TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT

• We will reimburse travel costs related to testing activities that occur after you have received a conditional offer.
• The maximum daily reimbursement will be based on current GSA rates:
• Airfare: https://cpsearch.fas.gsa.gov/cpsearch/search.do
• Per Diem & Lodging: https://www.gsa.gov/travel/plan-book/per-diem-rates
• Keep all receipts.
• Contact QCPD command staff for specific details or guidance prior to travel.
  

Additional Compensation

• Specialty Assignment Pay for Detectives, Field Training Officers, Motors, SWAT, Negotiations, etc.
• Shift Differential Pay
• Swing Shift: $1.00 per hour
• Graveyard shift: $1.25 per hour
• Overtime, Callout, Stand-By, and other Premium Pay
  

______________________________________________

If you are having technical (computer-related) difficulties while completing the online application, please contact the governmentjobs.com "Applicant Support Line" at 1-855-524-5627.

______________________________________________

Job Classification Summary

Positions assigned to this class are responsible for performing general and specialized police work involving the enforcement of laws and ordinances, protecting life and property, conducting investigations, detection and arrest of violators, effecting crime prevention, providing community services, responding to requests for assistance, or acting in some other specialized assignments of comparable responsibility.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the first level in the sworn police job family responsible for performing law enforcement activities.

Examples of Duties

Essential Duties

The following are intended to describe core work functions of this classification. While the level and broad nature of essential duties may not change, specific work tasks will vary over time depending on the Town’s needs.

• Monitors radio communication and responds to community requests, calls-for-service, and emergencies.
• Assists other officers, department personnel, and Town staff as needed.
• Investigates crimes, complaints, accidents, and other situations.
• Administers first aid, secures crime and accident scenes, conducts investigations, and identifies and preserves evidence.
• Interviews individuals with complaints and provides an appropriate disposition or refers to proper authorities.
• Assesses activity or situations and takes appropriate action to enforce laws and maintain safety and security.
• When appropriate, apprehends suspects, makes/processes arrests; and transports offenders.
• Patrols designated areas to maintain order and to prevent, deter or discover violations and other criminal activity.
• When appropriate, conducts traffic stops and issues citations or warnings.
• Prepares and completes a variety of reports to provide documentation of daily shift activities, investigations, law and code violations, civil process, warrants, individual statements, critical incidents, and evidence management.
• Prepares, obtains, and/or serves warrants, court orders, civil processes, and other legal documents.
• Enforces traffic laws, codes, and regulations; facilitates traffic safety around accidents or congested areas; provides assistance to disabled motorists.
• Enforces other state laws and local codes/ordinances.
• Reviews and prepares case documentation for trials, hearings, depositions, etc.
• Provides testimony for trials, hearings, depositions, etc.
• Attends all designated meetings, briefings, training, and required appearances.
• As assigned, serves as a liaison to community groups, businesses, individuals, and other stakeholders to promote public safety, crime prevention, and awareness.
• Participates in community events and meetings.
• Conducts training for department staff, residents, volunteers, and other designated individuals.
• Cross-trains in a wide variety of law enforcement skills and disciplines.
• Maintains the integrity, professionalism, values and goals of the Police Department by assuring that all rules and regulations are followed, and that accountability and public trust are preserved.
• Supports the relationship between the Town and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with residents, visitors, business owners, organizational leaders, and other community members.
• Responds to questions, provides information, resolves complaints, and promotes positive public and community relations.
• Stays informed on all new or of new or updated laws, courts decisions, department policies, division procedures, and other important notifications.
• Maintains compliance with all Town, State, and Federal laws, codes, and regulations.
• Maintains compliance with all Town and Departmental rules, procedures and guidelines.
• Embraces the Town’s and department’s mission, vision and values.
• Provides support to special projects, tasks, or other assignments.
• Provides appropriate notifications for critical incidents or other designated situations.
• Performs related work as assigned.
  
  

Typical Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (at job entry)

Education And Experience

• High School Diploma or GED;
• Completion of a Law Enforcement / Police Academy OR
• Completion of an AZPOST-certified, open enrollment program within the past 3 years;
  
  

Special Requirements

• This position has been identified as a safety-sensitive position by Human Resources, per State and/or Federal Law. Upon conditional offer of employment, the candidate selected will be required to undergo testing for alcohol and controlled substances;
• A thorough background investigation will also be conducted and will include a polygraph exam, psychological examination, an AZPOST medical examination, and testing for alcohol and controlled substances;
• Out-of-state candidates will also be required to complete a physical agility assessment as part of the testing process.
  
  

Licensing/Certification Requirements

• Valid Arizona Driver’s License;
• Must be certified as an Arizona Police Officer within three (3) months of hire and continue to maintain Arizona Peace Officer and Standard Training (AZ POST) standards;
• For AZPOST certification, out-of-state candidates will be required to complete the AZPOST waiver process which includes firearms qualification (day, night, target ID/discrimination), tactical driving qualification, a Physical Aptitude Test (POPAT), a written test, and documentation for (academy) equivalency training.
  
  

KNOWLEDGE

• Principles and practices of modern municipal police organizations, including mission, vision, objectives, policies, procedures, and operations;
• Ethical decision-making;
• Local, state and federal laws as applicable to municipal law enforcement;
• Contemporary legal issues, such as criminal, civil, and labor laws, and municipal ordinances that affect police agencies;
• Police Department functions, procedures, policies, goals, organization, general orders, and rules and regulations;
• Methods, objectives, and procedures of law enforcement practices;
• Methods, objectives, and procedures of court proceedings;
• Laws governing the apprehension, arrest, and custody of persons committing misdemeanors and felonies, search and seizure, and the rules of evidence;
• Police methods and procedures related to patrol, traffic control, investigation, and identification
  
  

techniques;

• Operation and capabilities of the various types of equipment used by a police department;
• Effective methods of community policing efforts;
• Customer service principles and practice;
• Standard office equipment including the computer and programs relevant to the performance of applicable duties and responsibilities;
• The geography and demographics of the Town.
  
  

Skills

• Solving problems and making sound decisions;
• Analyzing and resolving operational and procedural problems;
• Managing stressful and complex situations;
• Using and caring for firearms;
• Driving in emergency situations;
• Operating of a motor vehicle;
• Interpreting and applying applicable laws, codes, regulations and standards;
• Maintaining physical and mental fitness;
• Providing customer service;
• Implementing investigative techniques;
• Managing time effectively while remaining agile and flexible;
• Applying investigation techniques;
• Building consensus and cultivating adaptability;
• Using a computer and related software applications;
• Communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, and other interested parties sufficient to exchange or convey information and to receive work direction.
  
  

Supplemental Information

Overall Physical Strength Demands

Physical Strength for this classification is indicated below with an “X”

Sedentary: Exerting up to 10 lbs. occasionally or negligible weights frequently; sitting most of the time.

Light: Exerting up to 20 lbs. occasionally, 10 lbs. frequently, or negligible amounts constantly OR requires walking or standing to a significant degree.

Medium: Exerting 20-50 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10 lbs. constantly.

Heavy: Exerting 50-100 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10-20 lbs. constantly.

X

Very Heavy: Exerting over 100 lbs. occasionally, 50-100 lbs. frequently, or up to 20-50 lbs. constantly.

Physical Demands

C

F

O

R

N

Continuously

Frequently

Occasionally

Rarely

Never

2/3 or more time

1/3 to 2/3 of time

Up to 1/3 time

< 1 hour per week

Never occurs

Note: This is intended as a description of the way the job is currently performed. It does not address the potential for accommodation.

Physical Demand

Brief Description

C

F

O

R

N

Standing

Communicating with co-workers, observing work site, observing work duties

X

Sitting

Desk work, in cars

X

Walking

To other departments/offices/office equipment, running

X

Lifting

Supplies, files, job related equipment

X

Carrying

Supplies, files

X

Pushing/Pulling

File draws, tables and chairs

X

Reaching

For supplies, for files

X

Handling

Paperwork

X

Fine Dexterity

Computer keyboard, telephone pad, calculator, calibrating equipment, handling weapon(s)

X

Kneeling

Filing in lower drawers, retrieving items from lower shelves/ground

X

Crouching

Filing in lower drawers, retrieving items from lower shelves/ground

X

Crawling

Under equipment

X

Bending

Filing in lower drawers, retrieving items from lower shelves/ground

X

Twisting

From computer to telephone, getting inside vehicles

X

Climbing

Stairs, step stool

X

Balancing

On step stool

X

Vision

Reading, computer screen, driving

X

Hearing

Communicating with co-workers and public and on telephone, listening to equipment

X

Talking

Communicating with co-workers and public and on telephone

X

Foot Controls

Driving

X

Other (Specify)

Environmental Factors

D

W

M

S

N

Daily

Several Times Per Week

Several Times Per Month

Seasonally

Never

Health & Safety Factors

D

W

M

S

N

Health & Safety Factors

D

W

M

S

N

Mechanical Hazards

X

Respiratory Hazards

X

Chemical Hazards

X

Extreme Temperatures

X

Electrical Hazards

X

Noise and Vibration

X

Fire Hazards

X

Wetness/Humidity

X

Explosives

X

Physical Hazards

X

Communicable Diseases

X

Physical Danger or Abuse

X

Other (Specify Below

Non-physical Demands

C

F

O

R

N

Continuously

Frequently

Occasionally

Rarely

Never

2/3 or more time

1/3 to 2/3 of time

Up to 1/3 time

< 1 hour per week

Never occurs

Description Of Non-Physical Demands

C

F

O

R

N

Time Pressure

X

Emergency Situation

X

Frequent Change of Tasks

X

Irregular Work Schedule/Overtime

X

Performing Multiple Tasks Simultaneously

X

Working Closely with Others as Part of a Team

X

Tedious or Exacting Work

X

Noisy/Distracting Environment

X

Other (Specify Below)

PRIMARY WORK LOCATION:

Office Environment

Warehouse

Shop

Recreation/Neighborhood Center

Vehicle

Outdoors

X

Combination of Office, Vehicle and Field

Other (Specify Below)

The following is a list of employment benefits offered by the Town of Queen Creek to full-time employees. The list is for informational purposes only. It does not create or connote any contractual rights or obligations. Additional details will be provided upon hire and are available in the Town of Queen Creek Employee Handbook.

Major Benefits for Full-Time Employees

(Employees choose the benefits that best meet their needs.)

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Pre-tax unreimbursed medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts

The Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) or Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) - contribution rates for the employee are set by statute.

Short-term and Long-term disability insurance for the employee

Town-paid basic life insurance

Optional employee-paid employee and dependent supplemental life insurance

Commuter life insurance for business travel and travel to and from work

Deferred compensation plan (457)

Optional enrollment in LifeLock Identity Protection Program

Paid holidays, plus one floating holiday annually

Vacation leave hours annually

Medical leave hours annually

Optional income replacement insurance

Worker's compensation insurance

Employee assistance program; offers confidential individual/family - marriage, legal and financial counseling

Training opportunities and continuing education opportunities, including tuition reimbursement for pre-approved programs

Direct deposit of paychecks

Wellness Programs with incentives

01

Each applicant must complete the supplemental questionnaire as part of the application screening and selection process. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. When answering supplemental questions, the information you provide must be substantiated within the application. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. DO YOU AGREE TO ANSWER EACH SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTION TRUTHFULLY AND THAT YOUR RESPONSES CAN BE VERIFIED FROM INFORMATION INCLUDED WITHIN YOUR APPLICATION?

• Yes
• No
  
  

02

Which best describes your highest level of education?

• High School diploma or GED
• Some college
• Associate's Degree
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree or higher
• None
  
  

03

List your major (and minor, if applicable) for your response to the previous question. If you checked Master's Degree or higher, please list your major (and minor, if applicable) for all post-secondary degrees you possess. If none, write "N/A."

04

Check which best describes your work experience in sworn law enforcement position(s):

• Less than 1 year
• 1 year to less than 2 years
• 2 years to less than 3 years
• 3 years to less than 4 years
• 4 years to less than 5 years
• 5 years to less than 6 years
• 6 years to less than 7 years
• 7 or more years
• No applicable work experience in sworn law enforcement position(s)
  
  

05

Briefly tell us why you are interested in working for the Town of Queen Creek.

06

Do you have any open complaints, administrative inquiries, or internal investigations where you are listed as the principal or focus of investigation?

• Yes
• No
  
  

07

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

08

Have you ever been disciplined, demoted, or dismissed for allegations related to harassment, dishonesty, bias based actions, significant use of force violations, or any other conduct or pattern of conduct that tends to disrupt, diminish, or otherwise jeopardize public trust?

• Yes
• No
  
  

09

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

10

Have you ever committed a felony, an offense that would be a felony if committed in this state, or an offense involving dishonesty, unlawful sexual misconduct, or physical violence while employed by a law enforcement agency?

• Yes
• No
  
  

11

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

12

Have ever used a dangerous drug or narcotic while employed or appointed as a peace officer?

• Yes
• No
  
  

13

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

14

Have you been convicted, adjudged, or found responsible for violations related to traffic regulations governing the movement of vehicles within the past three years?

• Yes
• No
  
  

15

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

16

Have you ever been charged or convicted of Driving Under the influence of alcohol or drugs?

• Yes
• No
  
  

17

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

18

If an applicant is found acceptable through the testing process, the background investigation and polygraph exam, a conditional offer of employment may be made. The position is contingent upon the applicant passing the medical exam, testing for alcohol and controlled substances and the psychological evaluation. The Town of Queen Creek may rescind a conditional job offer at any time during the process. I acknowledge that if a conditional offer is made, I understand that The Town of Queen Creek may rescind a conditional job offer at any time during the process.

• Yes
• No
  
  

19

I acknowledge that, if I am an out of state candidate (or an in-state candidate with expired certification), I will be required to successfully complete a physical agility test.

• Yes
• No
• Not Applicable
  
  

20

Select The Answer That Best Describes Your Situation

• I am currently certified as a Peace Officer in the State of Arizona.
• I am currently certified as a Peace Officer in a state/jurisdiction other than Arizona.
• I was a Peace Officer in the State of Arizona, but my certification is currently expired.
• I was a Peace Officer in a state/jurisdiction other than Arizona, but my certification is currently expired.
• None of the above.
  
  

21

If you indicated in the previous that your certification was/is from another state/jurisdiction, please provide specific details. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

22

Have you ever had your Peace Officer Certification revoked, suspended, denied, or voluntarily relinquished?

• Yes
• No
  
  

23

If you answered yes to the previous question, please explain. Write "N/A" if not applicable.

24

I acknowledge that, if hired as a result of this process, I must be certified as an Arizona Peace Officer within three (3) months of hire and continue to maintain Arizona Peace Officer and Standard Training (AZPOST) standards. [NOTE: For AZPOST certification, out-of-state candidates (or expired in-state candidates) will be required to complete the AZPOST waiver process which includes firearms qualification (day, night, target ID/discrimination), tactical driving qualification, a Physical Aptitude Test (POPAT), a written test, and documentation for (academy) equivalency training.]

• Yes
• No
  
  

25

I Have At Least 1 Or More Years Of Experience As An OFFICER/DEPUTY/DETECTIVE In The Following Disciplines/assignments (check All That Apply)

• Patrol
• Specialized Patrol Team: DUI enforcement
• Specialized Patrol Team: Neighborhood, street crimes, special enforcement, etc.
• Motors
• Bicycle team
• K-9
• Mounted
• Traffic Enforcement
• School Resource
• Community outreach or public affairs
• Internal oversight, professional standards, or internal affairs
• Policy or auditing
• Investigations: Property Crimes
• Investigations: Sex Crimes or Child Crimes
• Investigations: Domestic Violence/Family Crimes
• Investigations: Fraud or Financial Crimes
• Investigations: Collision/Crash Reconstruction
• Investigations: Violent Crimes (Homicide, Robbery, Aggravated Assault, etc.)
• Investigations: Computer Crimes
• Investigations: Narcotics/Drug Enforcement
• Investigations: Arson
• Investigations: Animal Crimes
• Investigations: Asset Forfeiture
• Intelligence or Crime analysis
• SWAT, Tactical Operations, or EOD
• Records
• Communications
• Property & Evidence
• Fleet management
• Training
• Recruitment, hiring, or background investigations
• Detention
• Search and Rescue
• Research, finance, grants, or other similar assignment
• None of the above
  
  

26

I have the following training or certifications in (check all that apply):

• Supervisor or command school/training
• ARIDE
• HGN
• DRE
• FTO/PTO
• SRO
• SWAT School
• EOD/Bomb School
• Crisis/Hostage Negotiations
• Any type of electronic forensics
• Police Cyclist (e.g. IPMBA)
• Terrorism Liaison Officer (TLO)
• Fusion Liaison Officer (FLO) or Intelligence Liaison Officer (ILO)
• General Instructor
• Instructor: Defensive Tactics/Use of Force
• Instructor: TASER
• Instructor: Tactical/Emergency Driving
• Instructor: Firearms
• Instructor: High Risk Vehicle Stops
• Instructor: HGN
• Instructor: DRE
• Instructor: Physical Fitness
• AZPOST Background Investigations
• Advanced Collision Investigations
• Interview/Interrogation
• Traffic Reconstruction
• Crime Scene Management
• Death Investigations
• Officer Involved Shootings/Deadly Force Investigations
• Media Relations/PIO
• Riot Control/Field Force
• Active Shooter/Aggressor
• Internal Affair/investigations
• Incident Command ICS100/200
• Incident Command ICS300
• Incident Command ICS400
• Incident Command ICS700
• Incident Command ICS800
• Covert or Electronic Surveillance
• sUAS/Part 107
• Crisis Intervention Team (CIT)
• Money Laundering & Asset Forfeiture
• None of the above
  
  

27

Do you have any other experience, education, or training that would support your appointment as a QCPD Officer?

28

In your current or past assignments, how have you been able to connect with the community; and how have you encouraged others to do the same? Provide specific examples (1,500 words or less).

29

Please list your academy graduation date.

• Required Question