Police Officer - Entry

Position

The Port of Portland Police Department is seeking high-quality Police Officer- Entry candidates to join our professional, growing team! Our officers are state-certified peace officers serving at the Portland International Airport (PDX) and the surrounding area. This is policing with a broader impact, a different pace, and a unique environment. At the Port of Portland, you operate in a critical infrastructure setting where traditional policing and protecting one of the region’s most visible and heavily traveled public spaces intersect every day.

Selection Process

• Front Line National Written Exam
• Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT)
• Application Materials & Qualification Review
• Screening Interview
• Panel Interview
• Background Investigation
• Psychological Examination
• Executive Interview, including discussion of background and psychological evaluation
• Medical Examination
• Pre-employment Drug Screening

Essential Job Duties

• Protect life and property at Portland International Airport (PDX).
• Patrol designated areas by vehicle, bicycle, or on foot to deter crime and detect criminal activity.
• Respond to reports of possible crimes and act appropriately.
• Develop contacts to gather information and maintain intelligence on criminal activity and suspects.
• Enforce state statutes, port, and city ordinances; issue citations or make arrests as appropriate.
• Serve search and arrest warrants, collect evidence, and complete detailed incident reports.
• Respond to traffic and other accidents; administer first aid, interview witnesses, and complete accident reports.
• Communicate in person, via radios, and through computer systems to broadcast and receive information.
• Maintain clear documentation and reporting for law enforcement and airport security operations.
• Ensure public convenience and well-being within airport facilities; address inquiries, resolve complaints, and provide personal security services as assigned.
• Provide community services, presentations, and respond promptly to the needs of airport tenants, customers, and stakeholders.

Salary Information

Salary is determined by the Collective Bargaining Agreement and years of continuous service. All required uniforms and equipment are supplied by the police department.

Contract Salary Scale:

• Start: $39,744 / $82,667.52
• 1 Year: $42,187 / $87,748.96
• 2 Years: $44,777 / $93,136.16
• 3 Years: $47,542 / $98,887.36
• 4 Years: $50,319 / $104,663.52
• 5 years+: $53,332 / $110,930.56

Additional incentive or premium pay may be earned for certifications and special skills such as language proficiency (3%) or DPSST certifications (5–10%).

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED
• Eligible for police officer certification in the State of Oregon
• U.S. citizenship
• Valid driver’s license (Oregon or Washington) prior to hire, or ability to obtain
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance for unescorted access to secured airport areas
• Ability to meet physical performance expectations, including strength and stamina requirements
• Proficiency in understanding and following oral and written instructions in English
• Ability to pass required testing, including the written exam and physical abilities test
• Ability to successfully complete all pre-employment screenings (background investigation, psychological evaluation, drug test, & medical exam)

Preferred Qualifications

• Degree in criminal justice, social science, or a related field
• Experience in law enforcement, corrections, security, or a related field

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Port of Portland is dedicated to maintaining and improving a work environment, which extends equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation.

Veterans Preference

Under Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans’ preference when applying for Port of Portland positions.