What is a Police Officer Lateral Job?
A police officer lateral job is a position that offers experienced police officers the opportunity to transfer their skills and expertise to a new police department. Unlike entry-level positions, lateral jobs require candidates to have prior experience as a sworn law enforcement officer. Lateral jobs are a great way for officers to expand their career opportunities and potentially earn a higher salary.
What Usually Do in This Position?
In a police officer lateral job, the daily duties and responsibilities are similar to those of an entry-level officer. The main difference is that lateral officers are already trained and have experience working in law enforcement, which means they can be immediately assigned to patrol, investigations, or other specialized units. Lateral officers are often expected to hit the ground running, quickly adjusting to the policies and procedures of the new department.
Top 5 Skills for the Position
- Strong communication skills: Effective communication is essential for building relationships with community members, collaborating with other officers, and presenting evidence in court.
- Adaptability: Lateral officers must be able to quickly adapt to new policies, procedures, and protocols in a new department.
- Critical thinking: Officers must be able to analyze complex situations and make quick decisions under pressure.
- Physical fitness: Lateral officers must maintain a level of physical fitness to perform their duties effectively and ensure their own safety.
- Attention to detail: Officers must be meticulous in their work, paying close attention to details like documentation, evidence, and witness statements.
How to Become a Police Officer Lateral Specialist
To become a police officer lateral specialist, candidates must meet the minimum requirements for the position, which vary by department. Generally, candidates must have a valid law enforcement certification from their previous department and meet the department's education and experience requirements. Some departments may require additional certifications or training in specialized areas such as investigations, crisis negotiation, or drug interdiction.
Average Salary
The average salary for a police officer lateral job varies depending on the department, location, and level of experience. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for a lateral police officer is $57,950 per year. However, salaries can range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on the department's size, location, and pay scale.
Roles and Types
Police officer lateral jobs can vary depending on the department's needs and areas of specialization. Some common roles and types of lateral positions include patrol officers, detectives, crime scene investigators, traffic officers, and community resource officers. Each position requires a unique set of skills and experience, and officers may have the opportunity to rotate through different roles throughout their career.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
Police officer lateral jobs are available in most cities and towns across the United States. However, some locations are more popular than others, offering more opportunities for lateral transfers. According to Indeed, the top 10 cities for lateral police officer jobs include:
- San Francisco, CA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Diego, CA
- Denver, CO
- Houston, TX
- Chicago, IL
- Portland, OR
- Austin, TX
What are the Typical Tools?
Police officers use a variety of tools and equipment to perform their duties effectively and safely. Some common tools for lateral officers include:
- Handcuffs and restraints
- Firearms and non-lethal weapons
- Body armor and protective gear
- Police radios and communication devices
- Computer systems and databases for record-keeping and investigations
In Conclusion
Police officer lateral jobs offer experienced officers the opportunity to transfer their skills and expertise to a new department. These positions require candidates to have prior law enforcement experience and meet additional education and certification requirements. Lateral officers must be adaptable, critical thinkers, physically fit, and have strong communication and attention to detail skills. Salaries vary depending on the department and location, and officers may have the opportunity to rotate through different roles throughout their career.