Joe Oakley began his career with the Memphis Police Department on June 5, 1989, entering the Training Academy as a Police Recruit. Upon completion of Basic Training on October 20, 1989, he was assigned to Uniform Patrol at the Organized Crime Unit.

As a Patrol Officer, Officer Oakley was also assigned to the North Precinct Alpha and Bravo shifts and Security Squad.

On August 29, 1996, Officer Oakley was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. As a Sergeant, he worked the Security Squad, Internal Affairs Bureau, Central Precinct Alpha shift, Binghampton COACT and Appling Farms Bravo shift.

On July 12, 2000, Sergeant Oakley was promoted to Lieutenant. As Lieutenant he was assigned to Central, Northeast and South Precinct Charlie shift.

On September 13, 2005, Lieutenant Oakley was promoted to the rank of Major. As a Major, he was assigned to Ridgeway Station Alpha and Bravo shifts, Inspectional Services Bureau and Raines Station Charlie shift.

On January 8, 2013, Major Oakley was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. As a Lieutenant Colonel he was assigned to Ridgeway Station Administration.

On July 21, 2015, Lieutenant Colonel Oakley was appointed to the rank of Colonel. As a Colonel, he was assigned to Airways Station and Mt. Moriah Station Administration.

On August 9, 2021, Colonel Oakley was appointed to Deputy Chief of Information Technology.