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Berks County Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Public Defender I - III

Reading, PA · On-site

$61K - $82K/yr

... with police and District Attorney's Office as well as conducting hearings. POSITION ... May require travel to Berks County Prison, State Prison, as well as meeting within custody clients.

The purpose of the Berks County Sheriff's Department Deputy Sheriff is to serve and protect the ... Assists police at incidents, in court, at DUI centers and any other time when required. * Enforces ...

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Berks County Police information

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How much do berks county police jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for berks county police in the United States is $23.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do Northern Berks police officers make?

Northern Berks police officers typically earn an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. Entry-level officers may start at lower salaries, while those with more experience or specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salary figures are influenced by union contracts and local budget allocations.

How much do Berks County detectives make?

Detectives in Berks County typically earn a salary that ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and rank. They often require law enforcement experience, specialized training, and may work irregular hours or shifts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Berks County Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Berks County Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement practices, a high school diploma or equivalent (with many agencies preferring some college), and completion of a police academy training program. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, report writing software, and communication systems such as radios and body cameras is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, ethical judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in the field. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and maintaining trust within the community.

What are some common challenges Berks County Police officers face during their daily patrols?

Berks County Police officers often encounter a variety of challenges during their daily patrols, including responding to unpredictable emergency situations, managing high-stress interactions with the public, and adapting to rapidly changing circumstances. Officers must also stay updated on local laws and procedures, maintain accurate reports, and ensure community trust through effective communication. Teamwork is essential, as officers frequently coordinate with other law enforcement agencies, emergency responders, and community organizations to resolve incidents and maintain public safety.

What are Berks County Police?

Berks County Police refers to the law enforcement agencies and officers serving Berks County, Pennsylvania. These police departments are responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and providing community services within the county's cities, townships, and boroughs. Each municipality may have its own police department, while some areas rely on the Berks County Sheriff's Office or Pennsylvania State Police for coverage. The Berks County Police work collaboratively with other agencies to ensure the safety and security of residents and visitors.

What is the difference between Berks County Police vs Berks County Sheriff's Deputies?

AspectBerks County PoliceBerks County Sheriff's Deputies
Primary RoleEnforce laws, patrol, respond to incidentsExecute court orders, serve legal documents, manage inmate transport
Required CertificationsPolice academy, law enforcement certificationPeace officer certification, law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentUrban and suburban areas, patrol dutiesCourts, jails, and legal settings
EmployerMunicipal police departmentsCounty government, sheriff's office

Berks County Police officers focus on law enforcement duties like patrolling and responding to incidents, while Berks County Sheriff's Deputies primarily serve legal documents and manage court-related tasks. Both roles require law enforcement certifications but differ in work environment and responsibilities.

Is it hard to get a police job?

Becoming a police officer typically involves a competitive application process that includes written exams, physical fitness tests, background checks, and interviews. Candidates often need relevant education, training, and sometimes prior experience in law enforcement or related fields, making the hiring process challenging but achievable with proper preparation.

What are the highest paying jobs in Berks County?

In Berks County, high-paying jobs for police officers include roles such as police chief, detective supervisor, and specialized units like SWAT or K-9 handlers, which often require advanced training and experience. Civilian positions in law enforcement, such as criminal investigators or forensic analysts, also tend to offer higher salaries. Overall, leadership roles and specialized assignments within law enforcement typically provide the highest compensation.
What cities are hiring for Berks County Police jobs? Cities with the most Berks County Police job openings:
What states have the most Berks County Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Berks County Police jobs include:
Infographic showing various Berks County Police job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,896 per year, or $23 per hour.

Assistant Public Defender I - III

Berks County

Reading, PA • On-site

$61K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 hours ago


Job description


POSITION SUMMARY:
Public Defenders provide legal representation for indigent persons at Summary Hearings, Preliminary Hearings, Mental Health Hearings, State Parole Violation Hearings, Appeals, and Juvenile Court.
Representation includes meeting clients, evaluating case and evidence, providing advice to client, negotiation with police and District Attorney's Office as well as conducting hearings.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:
Essential Functions
The duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not necessarily limited to:
  • Provide legal representation, consultation, and advice to clients.
  • Represent clients during criminal investigative hearings.
  • Prepare a defense, conduct legal research, gather facts, and interview the client.
  • Work closely with clients, provide and discuss information, strategies and developments.
  • Write motions, and legal arguments.
  • Handle pretrial, motions, and appeals.
  • Handle sentencing and negotiate plea bargains.
  • Handle other related duties and responsibilities as assigned on occasion.
  • Train to provide back-up to other positions, if needed.
  • Occasional travel in-and-around the county, state and region may be required to conduct essential elements of the job, including travel to prisons and meeting with in-custody clients.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited Law School is required.
  • Admission to the Pennsylvania Bar is required.
  • No experience required, but knowledge of criminal law is preferred.

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Basic working knowledge of Pennsylvania Criminal Law.
  • Ability to use Windows based computer programs.
  • Good problem solving and organization abilities.
  • Good oratory and decision-making skills.
  • Good interpersonal and diplomacy skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to work with stress.
  • Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Work involves walking, talking, hearing, using hands to handle, feel objects, tools, or controls, and reaching with hands and arms. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds a distance of fifteen (15) feet or less.
WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
Normal office & courtroom environment. May require travel inside & outside of Berks County. May require travel to Berks County Prison, State Prison, as well as meeting within custody clients. Must have access to transportation
This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.
About Us
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
About Us:
Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other county information, this is the place to start.
About the Team
Mission Statement:
It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.