The mission of the Bend Police Department is to protect and serve. We do this by safeguarding the lives and property of the community by upholding the law, preventing and investigating crime, and fostering trust and collaboration with the public. The department strives to provide professional, compassionate, and responsive law enforcement services that address the needs and concerns of the Bend community.

Qualification Requirements

Qualification requirements for sworn officers:

• Age: You must be at least 21 years old when you're hired.
• Education: You need a high school diploma or GED, plus either two years of college, military service with an honorable discharge, or a similar mix of education and experience that gives you the skills needed for the job.
• Driver’s License: You must have (or be able to get) an Oregon driver’s license within 30 days of being hired.
• Background Check: You must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation, including a criminal history check, and obtain an Oregon State Police Criminal Justice Information Systems clearance.
• Certification: You must be able to obtain certification by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training’s Minimum Standards of Employment as a Law Officer within the first 12 months of employment.

Please note: the minimum standards for employment as a law enforcement officer are set by the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training.

Selection Process

Become an Entry-Level Officer

Step 1: Application Submission
If you are interested in sworn-officer positions at the Bend Police Department, complete the application: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/bend. It is essential to ensure that all required documents are included, and that the application is filled out accurately and completely. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Step 2: Initial Screening and Interviews
Once the application period has closed, the Bend Police Department will review all applications received. This process may take some time, and you can expect to receive updates on your application status during the process. Most job announcements have an anticipated timeline for each step in the selection process. If you are selected to continue you will receive an invite to a web-based interview, then an in-person interview and finally a Chief’s interview. If you are invited to the in-person interview, you will also have the option to participate in the physical fitness test (ORPAT).

Step 3: Background Investigation
Selected candidates undergo a comprehensive background investigation that includes a thorough examination of personal, criminal, and employment history, as well as reference checks. Applicants are required to provide additional documentation and information as requested during this stage. The background investigation may take one month or more to complete. Additional information regarding qualifications and disqualifies can be found here:

Step 4: Medical Evaluation and Psychological Assessment
Once you successfully pass the background investigation, you will be required to undergo a medical evaluation and psychological assessment to ensure you meet the physical and mental health standards necessary for the role of a sworn officer. Once completed successfully, you will receive an official offer of employment.

Become a Lateral Officer

If you are an out-of-state, certified lateral officer – please apply! The Bend Police Department can provide guidance on how to complete the request for certification reciprocity.

Join Our Professional Team

The Bend Police Department has a wide array of non-sworn positions. You can find current openings at our application portal: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/bend. Some of the non-sworn positions that members of our community hold at the Bend Police Department include crime analyst, Community Service Officer, records and evidence specialists, and public safety systems technicians. You can learn more about all of the City’s positions:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have questions about what it's like to work for the Bend Police Department? We've got answers! Check out these commonly asked questions below. If you have additional questions, contact our recruiting team.