The information herein is provided by the respective agency and is only as accurate and as up-to-date as the agency representative(s) update this information. PST is not responsible for the veracity of this data as it is provided directly from the agency. It is ultimately the applicant's responsibility to verify any information about the agency with the agency.
Gig Harbor Police Department - Entry Level Police Officer
Last updated on July 18, 2024
PST Partner Agency since October 19, 2011
Vacancies: 2
Testing Deadline: August 24, 2024.
Important Information
Thank you for your interest in the Gig Harbor Police Department. At this time, we are winding down recruitment efforts for entry-level officers. If you would like your scores on file with the department in the event of future hiring into 2025, please be sure to complete your testing by August 24, 2024. We appreciate your consideration and invite you to reach out if you have any questions.
Founded in 1946, Gig Harbor is one of the most picturesque small cities in America, located on Gig Harbor Bay in Puget Sound across the Narrows Bridge from Tacoma. The community is rich in maritime history, scenery, quaint shops and unparalleled recreation. With a city population of 12,181 and growing, Gig Harbor boasts a vibrant economy with inviting accommodations, interesting shopping, excellent dining, colorful cultural arts, playful recreation, and diverse professional and personal services. Gig Harbor is easy to get to. We're just a quick 45-minute drive to Sea-Tac International Airport and an hour from downtown Seattle. The City of Tacoma is just a few minutes drive across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
Department Information
The Gig Harbor Police Department serves the citizens of Gig Harbor, and other community members, within the jurisdiction's 6.12 square miles. This includes Police Chief, Lieutenant, four Patrol Sergeants, one Detective Sergeant, two Detectives, and 16 Patrol Officers. Additional staff includes two Police Services Specialists and one Property/Evidence Technician.
The City utilizes three contract jails. Dispatch service is provided by South Sound 911. Additional opportunities include participation in our Bicycle Unit, Marine Services Unit, and a variety of multi-jurisdictional teams.
Our patrol officers and sergeants work three consecutive 12.5 hour shifts with four days off each week. There is one additional 10-hour shift added to the monthly schedule. Each officer is provided an assigned take-home vehicle. Uniforms and equipment are purchased by the city. A deferred compensation plan and a retiree medical plan are included as parts of the compensation package.
The Gig Harbor Police Department enjoys an incredible relationship with a very supportive community. Our City Administration is highly supportive of ensuring that the Police Department has the tools and ability to maintain a safe community. We pride ourselves on providing the Best Possible Service to our community.
Are you passionate about serving your community and ensuring the safety of its residents? Do you possess a strong sense of integrity, dedication, and a desire to make a positive impact? If so, we invite you to embark on an exciting and rewarding career with the Gig Harbor Police Department! Become an integral part of our committed law enforcement team, working collaboratively to maintain peace, enforce laws, and build meaningful connections with the community we proudly serve. Come join an exceptional team that takes pride in delivering the Best Possible Service to our community.
Why choose the Gig Harbor Police Department?
Nestled in the heart of natural beauty, Gig Harbor offers a truly unique policing experience. Our city, known for its stunning waterfront, friendly atmosphere, and strong sense of community, provides the perfect backdrop for officers who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of residents and visitors alike. At the City of Gig Harbor, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for our officers. With unwavering backing from both city administration and our engaged residents, you'll have the resources and encouragement you need to excel in your role.
We encourage you to visit the Benefits tab above for additional compensation and benefits package information, including retirement medical plan and longevity pay after 2 years!
Under the direct supervision of a Police Lieutenant and Sergeant, with general supervision by the Chief of Police, the employee's behavior is governed by policies and procedures of the Police Department; local, state, and federal laws; and court decisions.
This is a responsible human relations and skilled position in public safety. The employee in this position is responsible for the protection of the public's safety, the prevention of crime, and the enforcement of local, state, and federal laws.
The employee exercises considerable discretion in regulating daily activity and use of enforcement powers.
Work includes patrolling the community by vehicle and on foot. Bicycle and marine patrol duties are assigned upon qualification. The employee responds to calls for service, which include reports of criminal activity, traffic safety, crime prevention, and general public safety problems.
The employee conducts preliminary and continued investigations for reported crimes and traffic accidents. This responsibility includes crime scene processing, interviewing witnesses and victims, and enforcing specific violations of the law.
The employee performs several assignments to prevent crime and traffic accidents. These assignments are educational and inspectional: presentations on prevention techniques; conducting security surveys; security checks on home and businesses; inspection of business practices and policies; and inspection of building construction for compliance with the security ordinance.
Performance is monitored daily by the Police Sergeant, Lieutenant, or Chief of Police, for compliance with policies and laws. However, the employee usually performs with minimum supervision.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Ensures Department services are provided with exceptional customer service and the highest level of ethical standards.
Patrols the community in a vehicle, on foot, or bicycle and/or boat when assigned, to deter and detect criminal activity.
Emphasis on customer service approach to work collaboratively with community partners to improve safety and reduce crime.
Responds to calls for service: administers first aid to injured persons, documents allegations of a crime; protects persons and property; and advises on preventative practices.
Performs preliminary and continued investigations (traffic and criminal): searches for and collects physical evidence; and, interviews witnesses and victims.
Enforces traffic laws by monitoring traffic movement visually and with radar, contracts violators, and issues traffic citations.
Conducts Security Surveys for businesses.
Inspects new construction for compliance with Security Ordinance.
Recovers and returns stolen property.
Testifies in court.
Writes reports on alleged crimes, traffic accidents, and arrests.
Performs crisis intervention in sensitive and dynamic situations; explains content of law to persons involved in a dispute, describing the process of filing a formal complaint, the extent of law enforcement powers, and the responsibility of citizens to follow prescribed legal procedures, provides referrals to appropriate community resources.
Attends meetings, seminars, and other training classes to maintain current up-to-date knowledge of criminal and civil laws, as well as technical skills in order to remain proficient in the performance of duty; maintains awareness of newly-enacted laws and recent court decisions and their effects on police duties and responsibilities.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES: Knowledge of:
Thorough knowledge of the accepted practices of delivering police service.
Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal laws.
Thorough knowledge of department policies, procedures, regulations, and directives.
Considerable knowledge of court decisions relating to police powers.
Good knowledge of human relation techniques.
Basic first aid and CPR procedures.
Ability to:
Write comprehensive and detailed crime reports, accident reports, and administrative reports.
Effectively communicate orally.
Relate to the community, superiors, city officials, and other city employees.
Effectively and safely use a firearm and operate a motor vehicle.
Physically apprehend suspects/persons.
Maintain fitness for duty.
Perform the essential duties of the job.
Maintain reliable and dependable attendance.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The employee primarily drives a vehicle, walks, or rides a bicycle when assigned.
There is considerable walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and at times, running.
Since the employee takes physical custody of persons, there is a certain amount of physical contact and confrontation. Employee may be vulnerable to personal injury in some cases.
The work sometimes requires above average physical agility and conditioning.
The employee is exposed to all weather conditions, and other outside environmental conditions.
May be exposed to hazards such as chemicals, temperature extremes, occasional driving at high speeds, bloodborne and communicable diseases.
May encounter hostile, disoriented, or violent individuals and may be subject to verbal and/or physical attack or assault from such individuals or may have gunfire directed at them.
The employee rotates in a 24-hour shift schedule and may be required to work overtime and on holidays as department need arises.
Subpoenaed appearances in court to testify in the prosecution of individuals charged with misdemeanor or felony charges is a regular and ongoing occurrence and may occur on a day off or before/after a regularly scheduled shift.
QUALIFICATIONS
At least 21 years of age at time of application
High school diploma or GED equivalent
US citizen or lawful permanent resident
Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
Valid Washington State driver license (or ability to obtain prior to hire) with a history of safe driving and maintenance throughout the duration of appointment
Score a minimum of 70% on Oral Board interview
Successfully pass background investigation, emotional intelligence screening, polygraph, psychological, and medical examination.
Additional Entry Level Requirements:
Score a minimum of 70% on Written Exam.
Must be able to successfully complete the Basic Law Enforcement Academy (BLEA) presented by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.
Must be able to successfully complete Field Training program post-academy.
Obtain Washington State Peace Officer Certification and maintain for duration of appointment.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position is considered essential for public safety.
This position is represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 117.
As a part of the hiring process, the City of Gig Harbor will be conducting an extensive criminal background check by law enforcement agencies, which includes fingerprinting. Please review this list of disqualifying crimes and negative actions to determine if you meet the hiring standard for this position.
Area Information
County: Pierce
Population: 12,181
# of Staff:
Hiring Status
Gig Harbor Police Department - Entry Level Police Officer has 2 vacancies.
The deadline to test for the next hiring cycle is August 24, 2024.
The deadline to test for the next hiring cycle is August 24, 2024.
Work in one of the BEST small cities in America. Assigned vehicles, specialty units, retiree medical plan, and unmatched community support!!
Actively recruiting to fill two (2) vacant positions.
2.5% of base salary after 2 years of continuous employment
5% of base salary after 5 years of continuous employment
6.5% of base salary after 10 years of continuous employment
College Premium Pay
2% of base salary for an Associate Degree
3% of base salary for a Bachelor Degree
Shift Differential
5% of base salary for shifts beginning at 12pm or later
Schedule: Each employee works three consecutive 12.5-hour shifts, followed by four days off each week. Plus, one additional 10-hour shift per month.
Assigned Take-Home Vehicle
Uniforms and Equipment – purchased by the city
MEDICAL/DENTAL/VISION INSURANCE Teamsters Welfare Trust(c/o Northwest Administrators, Inc.) The effective date of health insurance is the first day of the month following hire.
Vacation – 80 hours per year for first year*
Sick Leave – 96 hours per year
Holiday – 110 hours per year
Floating Holiday – 2 shifts per year
Bereavement – 40 hours per year
*Vacation: After each succeeding year of service 0.67 additional hours of vacation per month (8 additional hours per year), not to succeed 20 hours per month.
RETIREMENT AND SAVINGS ACCOUNTS
Employee Contribution Employer Contribution
Retirement LEOFF II 8.53% 5.30%
401(a) in place of Social Security* 6.20% 6.20%
HRA VEBA $50 per pay period $25 per month
457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan Optional Match up to $200, deposited into HRA VEBA account
Gig Harbor Police Department - Entry Level Police Officer Requirements
Category
Requirement
Required at time of...
Test
Hire
Written Examination
Yes, required
LEO/CO Physical Ability Test (PAT)
Yes, required
Your physical ability test must be completed 180 days (~6 months) before or after your passing written exam.
Minimum Age
21
Citizenship
US Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.
High School Grad/ GED
Yes
Driver's License Required
Valid Washington State Driver's License
Felony Conviction(s) as an Adult
No adult felony convictions at any time.
Felony Conviction(s) as a Juvenile
Will be carefully reviewed
Ability to Read & Write the English Language
Yes
Other
NOTE: If you are only interested in applying and sending scores to Gig Harbor, you do not need to complete PST's Personal History Statement (PHS). Gig Harbor has a separate process.
Gig Harbor Police Department - Entry Level Police Officer Disqualifiers
The following are automatic and potential disqualifiers. Applicants should not apply to our agency if they indicate any of the automatic disqualifiers. Potential disqualifiers will be considered on a case by case basis.
Category
Disqualifier
Driving
Automatic
Any DUI conviction or deferred prosecution for an alcohol or drug related driving offense within preceding 10 years.
Automatic
Any other traffic conviction (Reckless Driving, Suspended License, etc.) within preceding three years.
Potential
Applicant must possess a current, non-probationary, and non-restricted valid driver’s license. History of restrictions on license or driving record due to vehicle operation or control will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Upon hire, must possess a Washington State driver’s license and maintain such licensure during employment.
Drug Usage
Automatic
Illegal, non-prescribed anabolic steroid use within preceding five years.
Automatic
Use or possession of marijuana/hashish within preceding one year.
Automatic
Illegal use of any other controlled substance (schedule I, II, III, IV, V) in preceding ten years.
Automatic
Illegal use of ANY controlled substance while employed in a criminal justice capacity.
Automatic
Intentional inhalation ("huffing") of any aerosol or substance (nitrous oxide, whippets, paint, glue, DXM, etc.) within preceding five years.
Automatic
Pattern of illegal use of prescription medication.
Automatic
Any sale of illegal drugs within preceding five years or after the age of 21.
Criminal Activity
Automatic
Any adult felony conviction.
Automatic
Any misdemeanor, or felony conviction while employed in a criminal justice capacity.
Automatic
Juvenile felony conviction will be carefully reviewed.
Automatic
Been convicted of any crime under a domestic violence statue.
Automatic
Unlawful sexual misconduct.
Employment
Automatic
Lied during any stage of the hiring process.
Automatic
Any separation from employment resulting in final loss of Peace Officer Certification.
Automatic
Any Dishonorable or Bad Conduct discharge from the U.S. Military.
Automatic
Any substantiated finding of the use of excessive force in the performance of official duties or a substantiated finding of racial discrimination or corrupt acts against another employee or a member of the public.
Financial
Automatic
Failure to pay income tax or child support.
Contact Information
Gig Harbor Police Department - Entry Level Police Officer
3510 Grandview Street
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Pierce County 253-851-2236
TESTING IN WASHINGTON STATE CANCELED THROUGH MAY 31, 2020
All pre-employment tests in Washington State have been canceled until May 31, 2020 unless government restrictions are eased. With recent updates, facility closures, and government guidelines, this step is necessary and could be modified at any time. The health and safety of our customers, our staff, and their families is of the highest priority.
We will continue to evaluate developments and make changes to this policy as necessary. When we do resume testing, there will be plenty of events for everyone to test. We are in regular communication with our public safety agency partners, assessing alternatives to the traditional testing model and our testing policies. Any future updates will be posted on the PST website and our Facebook page.
4/1/2020 Update:
If you have tested with PST in the past 12 months, there may be additional positions you are now eligible to add. Several departments have temporarily changed their testing policies due to the suspension in testing that COVID-19 has caused. Please login to your PST account and navigate to the ‘New Positions’ page to see what departments you can add! We will regularly update that page in your account as departments send updates.
FUTURE TEST REGISTRATION
We know that there will be testing in the future - we just don’t know when! We want you to be prepared for when testing begins again so we have created test events on our calendar that you can register for that will place you in a queue to be first notified. These tests are not “real” test events, they are essentially a holding area. You will be able to “reschedule” out of that event to any other event date/location at no cost. Registering now will also give you time to work on your Personal History Statement (PHS) so that your data will be ready and up-to-date to send to your departments once testing resumes.
To sign up for this placeholder event, select the June 15, 2020 test date in your category (police, fire, 911 dispatch, corrections, etc.).
You may also click on the test event of interest below to sign up:
Please check back here frequently and ‘Like’ our Facebook page to stay updated.
PST staff are working remotely and are available by email at contact@publicsafetytesting.com. We anticipate a high email volume and will respond as quickly as possible.