Community Information
The City of Madras is located in Central Oregon and serves as the county seat of Jefferson County. Madras is a close-knit, growing rural community with a population of approximately 8,200 residents and a service population that extends throughout the surrounding region. The city is approximately 45 minutes from Redmond and Bend, offering additional options for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Madras offers a high quality of life for those who value open space, outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community. The area is known for its proximity to world-class outdoor opportunities including hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, and water recreation at nearby Lake Billy Chinook and the Deschutes River. The Cascade Mountains are within a short drive, offering year-round recreation.
Madras Regional Airport provides local air access, and
Redmond Municipal Airport offers commercial flights within a short driving
distance.
The community is diverse and includes a significant agricultural presence, as well as a strong connection to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Madras continues to experience growth while maintaining its small-town character and community-oriented values.
Madras is a community where relationships matter. Police Officers are visible and have regular, direct interaction with community members, local businesses, and partner agencies. Officers have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on community livability and public safety through proactive policing and problem solving.
Department Information
The Madras Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency committed to protecting life and property while enhancing community livability through professional, ethical, and community-oriented policing.
The Madras Police Department consists of patrol officers, patrol sergeants, a detective, and professional staff including records and evidence support. The department operates with a team-oriented structure where officers work closely with supervisors and specialty positions to manage calls for service, conduct investigations, and support overall department operations.
The department operates in a dynamic rural environment that requires officers to be adaptable, self-directed, and capable of handling a wide variety of calls for service. Officers are expected to think critically, exercise sound judgment, and balance enforcement with problem-solving and community engagement.
Madras officers perform a broad range of duties including patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, and response to emergency and non-emergency calls. The department values professionalism, accountability, and integrity. Officers are held to a high standard and are expected to represent the department and the City of Madras with respect and professionalism.
Training and development are a priority. Entry-level officers participate in the Oregon DPSST Basic Academy followed by a structured Field Training (FTEP) program. The department emphasizes continued skill development and encourages officers to build competency across multiple areas of law enforcement.
Madras Police Department works closely with community members, local organizations, and regional partners to address public safety concerns. Officers are expected to engage with the community in a meaningful way and contribute to long-term problem-solving efforts.
This position is well suited for individuals seeking a
hands-on law enforcement experience, a strong foundation in policing, and the
opportunity to make a direct impact in a community that values relationships
and accountability.
The Ideal Candidate
The Madras Police Department is seeking individuals who are self-motivated, adaptable, and committed to professional growth. Ideal candidates demonstrate sound judgement, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently while remaining accountable to the team and the community.
Successful candidates are those who are willing to take initiative, engage with the community, and approach law enforcement with a problem-solving mindset. This position is best suited for individuals who are looking to develop their skills, take on meaningful responsibility, and contribute to a department that values professionalism and integrity.
Job Description
Police Officers with the Madras Police Department are responsible for protecting life and property through the enforcement of state laws, local ordinances, and community-oriented policing practices. Officers work closely with community members, businesses, and partner agencies to promote public safety and address community livability issues.
This position operates in a dynamic and unpredictable environment requiring sound judgement, adaptability, and the ability to make decisions under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
- Patrol assigned areas to deter and detect criminal
activity and enhance public safety.
- Respond to calls for service including emergencies,
criminal complaints, and community assistance requests.
- Conduct criminal and traffic investigations; collect evidence
and interview victims, witnesses, and suspects.
- Enforce state and local laws through arrests, citations,
and other appropriate actions.
- Prepare clear, accurate, and timely reports and
documentation.
- Provide testimony in court and assist with case
preparation.
- Engage in community-oriented policing and problem-solving.
- Provide aid and assistance to the public, including first
aid when necessary.
- Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies and
community partners.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to exercise sound judgement and make decisions in
high-pressure situations.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Ability to analyze situations and apply problem-solving
techniques.
- Ability to interact professionally and effectively with
diverse members of the public.
- Ability to learn and apply laws, policies, and procedures.
- Ability to maintain composure and adapt in unpredictable
environments.
Work Environment and Expectations
- Work is performed in a 24/7 operation with rotating shifts,
including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Officers must be prepared to handle high-stress and rapidly
evolving situations.
- The position requires independent decision making,
accountability, and professionalism.
- Officers are expected to maintain composure, exercise
discretion, and interact respectfully with all members of the public.
- Work includes walking, running, lifting, and physical
interaction with individuals.
- Ability to work in all weather conditions and varied environments.
- Exposure to high-stress situations, including emergencies
and potentially hazardous conditions.
What You Can Expect
- Hands-on law enforcement experience in a full-service
agency.
- Early exposure to a wide variety of calls, investigations,
and responsibilities.
- Opportunity to develop strong foundational policing
skills.
- A team-oriented environment with direct access to supervision and mentorship.
This position is best suited for individuals who are
self-motivated, adaptable, and committed to professional growth and community
engagement.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be 21 years of age at the time of employment.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Oregon driver’s
license.
- Must be able to obtain Oregon DPSST Basic Certification.
-Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including
criminal history, driving record, and credit history.
- Must meet department medical, physical, and psychological
standards.
Why Madras Police Department
The Madras Police Department offers a hands on law enforcement environment where officers gain broad experience, take on meaningful responsibility, and have a direct impact on the community. This position provides an opportunity to build a strong foundation in policing while working in a department that values accountability, professionalism, and community engagement.
Area Information
County: Jefferson
Population: 8,200
# of Staff: 14
Hiring Status
Madras Police Department - Police Officer has 2 vacancies.
Madras Police Department - Police Officer - Entry Level has two open vacancies.
Salary Information
Starting salary is dependent on qualifications and
experience.
Annual Base Salary ranges from $61,907 to $88,006.
Officers progress through a step system based on experience and performance. Additional compensation may include overtime opportunities and specialty assignments as available.
Benefit Information
The City of Madras offers a comprehensive benefits package
designed to support officers’ health, financial security, and long-term career
development.
Retirement and Financial Benefits
- 100% Employer-Paid PERS (no employee contribution required).
- Longevity pay (1%, 1.5%, 2%).
- Certification pay (3%, 4%, 5%).
- 5% incentive pay for bilingual (Spanish) officers.
Health and Wellness
- Health insurance available within 31 days of hire.
- Low employee premium costs.
- Employer contributions to Health Savings Account (HSA).
- Wellness benefit.
Time Off
- 10 paid holidays (including floating holiday hours)
Vacation Accrual:
- 1 year = 5 days
- 2 years = 15 days
- 5 years = 20 days
- 10 years = 25 days
- Additional accrual after 15 years (up to 6-week maximum)
Madras Police Department - Police Officer Requirements
| Category |
Requirement |
Required at time of... |
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Test |
Hire |
| Written Examination |
Yes, required
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LEO/CO Physical Ability Test (PAT)
|
Yes, required as described below
The Madras Police Department does not accept PAT scores from outside of Oregon. Candidates will be required to pass the Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT). Applicants who successfully pass the application review phase will be invited to participate in the ORPAT administered by the Madras Police Department. If an applicant has completed the ORPAT and has a passing score of 5:30 or less within the last 12 months, you will not need to retest. Prior ORPAT scores can be attached to your application.
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| PST Personal History Statement |
Yes, required within 7 days of passing required exam(s)
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| Minimum Age |
21
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| Citizenship |
US Citizen
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| High School Grad/ GED |
Yes
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| Driver's License Required |
Valid Oregon State driver's license upon hire.
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| Basic Law Enforcement Academy Certification |
Must be able to obtain certification by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training - DPSST Minimum Standards of Employment as a Law Enforcement Officer as noted by Oregon Administrative Rule 259-008-0010 - within the first 12 months of employment.
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| Veterans Preference Points |
Applicants must provide certification that they are a veteran or disabled veteran to receive veteran's preference.
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Document Requirements
| Document |
Description |
Example Files |
Optional |
Preference Points |
| High School Diploma |
Upload a clear copy of your high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED certificate). This document must show your name, the school or program, and the date you graduated or completed the program. |
None
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| College Transcripts/Diploma |
Upload your college diploma and/or official or unofficial college transcripts. These should show the name of the school, your name, your degree or program, and your graduation date (if applicable). |
None
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| Drivers License |
Upload a clear, readable copy of your current driver’s license (front, and back if needed). Make sure the name, photo, license number, and expiration date are visible. |
None
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| DD214 |
If you have prior military service, upload a copy of your DD214. Please include the Member-4 copy (or equivalent) that lists your character of service and discharge status. |
None
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| Certifications/licenses |
Upload copies of any relevant professional certifications or licenses you hold (for example: EMT/Paramedic, nursing, law enforcement certificates, fire service certifications, or other job-related credentials). Make sure each document clearly shows your name, the type of certification or license, and the issue/expiration dates if applicable. |
None
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