Progress in 2024: Setting the Stage for Success
In 2024, the Portland Police Bureau saw significant progress. 74 new officers were hired—up from 61 in 2023—and applicant numbers rose significantly. While the bureau experienced natural attrition due to retirements, the outlook for 2025 is optimistic, with no major retirements expected until mid-2026. This creates an opportunity to focus on onboarding and retaining new hires.
Why Choose the Portland Police Bureau?
For those considering a career in law enforcement, the Portland Police Bureau offers unmatched opportunities, benefits, and a culture that prioritizes officer wellness and work-life balance:
- Competitive Pay:
- Entry Wage: $82,000 per year + a $5,000 hiring bonus
- Lateral Range: $95,000 - $117,000 annually, with opportunities for overtime and additional pay incentives.
- In 2023, the average top-step officer earned $188,000 with overtime and pay incentives.
- Wellness First:
At PPB, your well-being matters. The bureau prioritizes wellness with initiatives like the “Wellness Hour,” where officers get paid to work out during their shift. This investment in physical and mental health underscores PPB's commitment to a sustainable and supportive work environment. Learn more about the wellness program. - Work-Life Balance:
Officers enjoy a 4/10 schedule—work four days, have three consecutive days off—providing flexibility and time for personal life. - Top-Tier Training & Equipment:
- Recognized as some of the best law enforcement training on the West Coast.
- Rolling out 70 new technologically advanced patrol vehicles for enhanced safety and efficiency.
- Over 40 Assignments:
Explore diverse career paths—become a trainer, work in traffic enforcement, narcotics, or a variety of specialty units. - Exceptional Benefits:
PPB provides solid paid time off, comprehensive insurance coverage, wellness programs, and all essential gear and equipment to set you up for success. - A Stunning Place to Live:
Oregon’s natural beauty—mountains, coastlines, forests, and deserts—is unmatched. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just appreciate scenic views, Portland’s location offers it all.
Recruitment Events: Meet Us in Person
We understand the hiring process can feel daunting, so we’ve created workshops to make it easier.
Monthly Hiring Workshops offer:
- Insights into the hiring process and requirements.
- Opportunities to meet bureau personnel and ask questions.
- Practice and official runs of the ORPAT physical abilities test (counts for a year if passed).
By attending, you’ll gain confidence and clarity about joining PPB. Many participants say meeting our officers helped them feel more comfortable and inspired to take the next step.
👉 Sign up for a workshop here: joinportlandpolice.com/workshops
Building a Stronger Future Together
Recruitment efforts aren’t just about numbers—they’re about building a healthier, more connected team. The Portland Police Bureau is committed to:
- Providing the resources and tools you need to succeed.
- Supporting your physical and mental wellness throughout your career.
- Offering competitive pay, career growth, and a work culture that values its people.
As Sergeant Yakots shared, “Portland is coming out stronger. With supportive leadership, wellness initiatives like the wellness hour, and creative recruiting efforts, we’re building a bureau that officers can thrive in.”
Ready to Join the Team?
Take the first step toward a meaningful career with the Portland Police Bureau.
- Visit joinportlandpolice.com to apply today.
- Sign up for a hiring workshop and meet us in person: joinportlandpolice.com/workshops.
Your future—and Portland’s—starts here.