Make the move to Portage!
$15,000 Sign-on Bonus for New Lateral Transfers!
Lateral Transfer Program
The Portage Department of Public Safety (PDPS) Lateral Transfer Program affords certified Police Officers the opportunity to join the Portage Department of Public Safety – Police Division. Officers who have excelled in their law enforcement careers and are up to the task of meeting the high standards of the PDPS can apply now!
Candidates with prior full-time police experience will be hired in at an advance pay step based on prior years of service up to Step F of the current Portage Police Officers’ Association collective bargaining agreement. Step F is currently $91,014.49 annually (effective July 1, 2025) and $95,565.42 annually (effective July 1, 2026).
The Portage Department of Public Safety will offer lateral transfers to MCOLES-certified officers who are:
- currently employed full-time as a police officer within the State of Michigan;
- a separated officer within the last year from full-time service from a police department within the State of Michigan (subject to successful re-licensure by MCOLES); or
- an out-of-state officer currently employed full-time as a police officer and who qualifies to reciprocal licensure as defined by MCOLES.
Lateral candidates must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen, possess an associate’s degree, and have no felony convictions, including expunged convictions. Successful candidates must obtain a valid Michigan driver's license upon hire. Successful candidates must also complete all required tests and evaluations.
