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Act 120 Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Effective immediately, Act 120 or Act 2 certification is not required in advance of a career as a Chester County Deputy Sheriff. The County will now offer paid-for certification training from the ...

Effective immediately, Act 120 or Act 2 certification is not required in advance of a career as a Chester County Deputy Sheriff. The County will now offer paid-for certification training from the ...

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Act 120 information

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$69.5K

$145.6K

$235K

How much do act 120 jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for act 120 in the United States is $145,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Act 120 Certified Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Act 120 Certified Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, criminal law, and investigative techniques, supported by successful completion of Pennsylvania's Act 120 Municipal Police Officers’ Education & Training Program. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, report management systems, and specialized equipment like radios and body cameras is essential. Strong communication, ethical judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish outstanding officers. These skills are critical for ensuring public safety, effective law enforcement, and maintaining community trust.

What is Act 120 certification?

Act 120 certification refers to the required training program for individuals who want to become municipal police officers in Pennsylvania. The program, officially known as the Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Program, covers topics such as criminal law, firearms, emergency response, and community relations. Completing Act 120 training and passing the necessary exams is mandatory before being eligible for employment as a police officer in the state.

What are some common challenges faced by Act 120 certified police officers during their first year on the force?

Newly certified Act 120 police officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, managing high-stress situations, and building effective communication with both the public and their colleagues. Learning how to apply academy training in unpredictable real-world scenarios can be demanding, and officers may face a steep learning curve as they navigate departmental protocols and community expectations. Support from experienced team members, ongoing training, and mentorship are key resources that help new officers successfully transition into their roles.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Act 120 certification is a requirement for becoming a police officer in many jurisdictions, and applicants can typically start the process at age 21 or older. Being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a law enforcement career, as many officers begin in their late 20s or early 30s, provided they meet the age, background, and physical requirements. Experience and maturity can be advantageous in law enforcement roles.

Can I work in a police department without being a police officer?

In a police department, roles such as administrative staff, dispatchers, crime scene investigators, and community service officers do not require police officer certification or sworn status. These positions often involve specialized skills, training, or certifications but do not require the same law enforcement authority as sworn officers.

What is the difference between Act 120 vs Act 33?

AspectAct 120Act 33
Required CredentialsCertification in drug and alcohol counseling, background checkSimilar certification, background check, and training
Work EnvironmentResidential treatment centers, outpatient clinicsCorrectional facilities, community programs
Employer & IndustryBehavioral health, addiction servicesCriminal justice, juvenile detention

Both Act 120 and Act 33 require similar certifications and background checks, often overlapping in credentials. However, Act 120 professionals typically work in behavioral health settings, while Act 33 professionals are more involved in correctional and juvenile justice environments. The choice depends on your preferred work setting and industry focus.

Can you make 300k as a cop?

While some law enforcement officers can earn around $300,000 annually through overtime, special assignments, or supervisory roles, it is not typical for entry-level or standard police positions. Most police salaries are lower, and reaching such high earnings usually requires extensive experience, additional certifications, and specialized duties.

What is the PA Act 120 accredited training program?

The PA Act 120 accredited training program is a state-approved course that prepares individuals to become certified police officers in Pennsylvania. It typically includes classroom instruction, physical training, and practical exercises, and completion is required for eligibility to take the police officer licensing exam. The program ensures trainees meet the state's standards for law enforcement training and professionalism.
More about Act 120 jobs
What cities are hiring for Act 120 jobs? Cities with the most Act 120 job openings:
What states have the most Act 120 jobs? States with the most job openings for Act 120 jobs include:
Infographic showing various Act 120 job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,640 per year, or $70 per hour.
*Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainee - Selection Cycle (Act 120 Certified Only)

*Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainee - Selection Cycle (Act 120 Certified Only)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

$1.8K - $2.0K/wk

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description


Salary

$1,805.60 - $2,037.60 Biweekly

Location

Multi-County, PA

Job Type

Non-Civil Service Permanent Full-time

Job Number

70501-4021

Department

Pennsylvania State Police

Opening Date

06/29/2026

Closing Date

9/30/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

70501

Position Number

Multiple

Union

PA Liquor Enforcement Association - PLEA

Bargaining Unit

K4

Pay Group

ST04

Contact Name

Enlisted Placement Section

Contact Email

ra-spspentrylvlexam@pa.gov

THE POSITION

ARE YOU CURRENTLY ACT 120 CERTIFIED OR ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR RE-CERTIFICATION?

The Pennsylvania State Police, Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement is seeking Act 120 certified applicants for Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainee positions located throughout the Commonwealth. If you're looking for a challenging, rewarding career and possess a valid Pennsylvania Act 120 Certification through MPOETC or are eligible for re-certification, apply today!
Liquor Enforcement Officers are responsible for conducting investigations performed through undercover operations and uniformed inspections of licensed or unlicensed liquor establishments throughout the state. They have the power and duty to arrest for violations of the Pennsylvania Liquor Code and specific Crimes Code-related offenses.
Upon completion of the Training Academy, Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainees will be assigned to a BLCE's District Enforcement Office within the selected region you are applying. When possible, District Enforcement Office placements will be based upon applicant preference, however final assignments will be made based on operational needs. Upon graduation, Liquor Enforcement Officers are also assigned a PSP owned vehicle for travel between their residence and their duty locations (used for official Commonwealth business only).

SCHEDULE/OTHER INFORMATION
Work Hours: Monday through Friday 0800 to 1700, 1 hour lunch (40-hour work week)
Shift: Rotating/irregular shifts, including weekends and holidays

During the 10-week training period, applicants have the option of going home at the end of each training day or may request lodging at the Training Academy.

Upon completion of academic training, Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainees will have their pay adjusted from Pay Scale Group 4, Step 4 ($47,090 annually - start rate) to Pay Scale Group 4, Step 10 ($53,141 annually - after 10-week training). Upon promotion to Liquor Enforcement Officer, the employee will be placed at Pay Scale Group 6, Step 1 ($56,541 annually - approx. 4 months after graduation, typically during field training period).


Once you submit an application, if you meet all eligibility requirements, you will move on to the written examination portion. You will receive additional information regarding scheduling your written examination at a later date.

***Please carefully review your name and address when applying to ensure it is identical to the form of identification you will present at the testing facility. Discrepancies in identifying information between your submitted application and your form of identification will result in denied admittance to the written examination.

We encourage applicants to sign up for text message notifications when creating their account to apply or update their account preferences to allow text messaging. Text messages sent to you will provide important updates regarding your application status or any actions needed from you during the hiring process.

At the end of the written examination testing period, PSP will review the results and provide candidates with additional information regarding their status. Below are additional processes you will need to complete if you qualify to be further processed.

Polygraph Examination
Background Investigation
LEOT Physical Readiness Tests
Medical Screening
Psychological Screening

Please keep in mind that PSP LEOT selection procedures and timeframes are subject to change at any time based upon the needs of the Department.

Please click on the links below to review pertinent and required LEOT information:

Essential Job Functions

LEOT Training

LEOT Medical Information

PSP LEOT Personal Appearance

LEOT Physical Readiness Testing

If you have questions related to the application or examination process, please contact the PSP Human Resource Office, Enlisted Placement Section by email at ra-spspentrylvlexam@pa.gov. For up to date information regarding the LEOT testing cycles, visit the website: Pennsylvania State Police LEOT Testing Announcements.

Thank you for your interest in the Pennsylvania State Police, Liquor Enforcement Officer Trainee position.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK

The Pennsylvania Liquor Enforcement Officer is a trainee position in the field of law enforcement. Upon successful completion of training, LEOTs receive a promotion to Liquor Enforcement Officer. You will be required to attend and successfully pass approximately 10 weeks of training which includes but is not limited to:

  • Receive classroom instruction in the Liquor and Crimes Codes and Department regulations, procedures, and directives that govern the investigation and enforcement of Commonwealth liquor-related laws.
  • Participate in formal coursework and practical exercises to become skillful and proficient in the use of lethal and non-lethal weapons.
  • Receive training in courtroom procedures, courtroom demeanor, and delivering testimony, and participate in mock trials.
  • Participate in physical conditioning exercises.
  • Receive training in and participate in recording information and preparing reports and citations regarding investigations and other work-related activities. Receive training in and participate in collecting, preserving, and handling evidence and documenting evidence chain of custody.
  • Upon graduation, LEO's will enter establishments and environments that require exposure to alcohol. This involves consuming or feigning consumption of alcoholic and/or non-alcoholic beverages while performing official duties. Participate in undercover duties to include observing activities and identifying violations of the liquor code. Participate in open uniformed duties to include performing Liquor Code inspections of establishments and managers, discussing complaints with and offering guidance to licensees, issuing citations, and discussing violations.
  • Participate in raids. Participate in minor patrol assignments to apprehend, prosecute and confiscate liquor and/or malt or brewed beverages purchased, possessed, and transported by minors in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
  • Arrest/prosecute violators for Liquor Law violations.
  • While at the academy there will be limited phone contact with family. LEOTs are permitted to go home daily unless they are required to stay for a specific assignment or request lodging at the academy.
  • LEOTs are permitted to provide three preferences for District Office assignment prior to graduation, but there is no guarantee the preferences will be honored. Ultimately, assignments are based on the needs of the Bureau; therefore, trainees may be assigned to any District Enforcement Office (DEO) within the Commonwealth.
  • Shifts will be irregular/rotating, including working weekends and holidays.
  • Upon graduation from the PSP training facility, LEOTs will be assigned a PSP owned vehicle for travel between their residences and duty locations. Assigned vehicles shall be operated only for the conduct of Commonwealth business.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

Minimum Experience and Training: Graduation from a high school or an accredited G.E.D. certification.

Necessary Special Requirement: Possession of a valid driver's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Must be at least 21 years of age.

Additional Requirement: You MUST meet one of the following criteria:

  • Possession of a valid Pennsylvania Act 120 Certification through MPOETC.
  • Be eligible for re-certification.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION

All applicants must apply through NEOGOV.

***Please carefully review your name and address when applying to ensure it is identical to the form of identification you will present at the testing facility. Discrepancies in identifying information between your submitted application and your form of identification will result in denied admittance to the written examination.

***Please read supplemental questions and respond to them carefully. Once you submit your responses, edits cannot be made.

You will receive all communication regarding this position via email. Please check your email, including spam folders, for these notices. You may also view notices sent to you by signing into your account on NEOGOV and viewing your profile inbox.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787