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Entry Level Law Enforcement Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SGI Global is seeking Law Enforcement Instructors for the United States Capitol Police (USCP). Qualified instructors will responsible for providing general entry-level and inservice training ...

SGI Global is seeking Law Enforcement Instructors for the United States Capitol Police (USCP). Qualified instructors will responsible for providing general entry-level and inservice training ...

SGI Global is seeking Law Enforcement Instructors for the United States Capitol Police (USCP). Qualified instructors will responsible for providing general entry-level and inservice training ...

Police Officer - Lateral

MD ยท On-site

$87K/yr

... of law enforcement work and departmental rules and procedures. Minimum Qualifications * Graduation from high school * Successful completion of recruit and/or entry-level training and probationary ...

Military Security Officer

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms) Category / Component: Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior experience. Those with a background in Law ...

Military Security Officer

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms) Category / Component: Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior experience. Those with a background in Law ...

Military Security Officer

Oxon Hill, MD ยท On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms) Category / Component: Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior experience. Those with a background in Law ...

Military Security Officer

Garrett Park, MD ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Security & Law Enforcement (Master-at-Arms) Category / Component: Enlisted Active This role is open to both entry-level applicants and candidates with prior experience. Those with a background in Law ...

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Entry Level Law Enforcement information

See Washington salary details

$37.9K

$55.9K

$78.7K

How much do entry level law enforcement jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level law enforcement in Washington is $55,886.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $61,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level law enforcement officer?

Entry level law enforcement jobs refer to positions such as police officers, sheriff's deputies, or corrections officers that require minimal prior experience in the field. These roles typically involve enforcing laws, maintaining public safety, and responding to emergencies. Candidates often need to meet basic requirements such as a high school diploma or GED, pass background checks, and complete police academy training. Entry level positions provide foundational training and experience for those starting a career in law enforcement.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level law enforcement officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Law Enforcement Officer, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, strong observational skills, and successful completion of police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, report writing software, and communication equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, composure under pressure, and sound judgment help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure effective enforcement of laws, community trust, and safety in challenging and dynamic situations.

What are common challenges faced by entry level law enforcement officers during their first year?

Entry level law enforcement officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning to manage stressful or unpredictable situations, and building effective communication with both the public and colleagues. Many new officers also need to quickly become proficient with departmental procedures, report writing, and legal protocols. Support from experienced team members and ongoing training are crucial in helping new recruits navigate these challenges and develop confidence in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Law Enforcement vs Correctional Officer?

AspectEntry Level Law EnforcementCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, correctional officer training
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, patrols, community interactionsPrisons, jails, detention facilities
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsCorrectional facilities, detention centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Law Enforcement officers primarily focus on patrolling, crime prevention, and community policing, working in the field and interacting with the public. Correctional Officers supervise inmates within detention facilities. While both roles require similar certifications and work in criminal justice, their environments and daily responsibilities differ significantly, making them distinct career paths within law enforcement.

Can you get hired as an entry level law enforcement officer with no experience?

Entry level law enforcement officers are often hired with little to no prior experience, as agencies typically provide training and require candidates to meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates usually need to pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and written exams, and some agencies may prefer or require a basic law enforcement certification or academy training before hiring.

What are the most commonly searched types of Law Enforcement jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Law Enforcement jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Law Enforcement job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Law Enforcement job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,886 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER ENTRY LEVEL

State of Maryland - DGS Maryland Capitol Police

Anne Arundel, MD โ€ข On-site

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Introduction

\r\nThe Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) supports State and local government agencies, as well as local non-profit organizations and the citizens of Maryland, by providing facilities management, real estate and surplus property services, as well as security and law enforcement for State buildings. DGS is also responsible for a full spectrum of facilities engineering, design and construction services, almost $1 billion in annual contract administration, and overseeing the State procurement process. Here at DGS, we truly Do Great Service... Consider joining our team!\r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

$37,237/year progressing to $71,342/year after completion of Police Academy and Field Training\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

Maryland Capitol Police Department\r\nBaltimore City - 301 W. Preston Street\r\nAnnapolis - 29 St. Johns Street\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

The Maryland Capitol Police Candidate Trainee position is the entry-level law enforcement work within the Maryland Capitol Police. Employees in this class attend a Police Training Academy to learn how to enforce Local, State and Federal Laws and departmental rules and regulations.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification must attend the law enforcement academy and pass the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission and the Maryland Capitol Police.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification are considered Emergency Essential personnel and must be willing and be available for duty at all hours. Employees may be required to remain on duty and report for duty at such hours as needed to maintain the continuous operation of this agency. If you are the selected candidate for this position, you will be required to complete a Pre-Employment Physical and substance abuse screening, which will assess your ability to safely perform the essential functions of this position.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

A Police Officer Trainee is an entry-level law enforcement role focused on learning to enforce laws and ensure public safety. Trainees work under close supervision and may be assigned various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with potential call-ins and overtime work. This position is classified as emergency essential, requiring duty during emergencies. Work may involve outdoor assignments in different weather conditions. The role progresses as follows:\r\n\r\nTrainee - Learns under close supervision.\r\nOfficer I - Works under close or general supervision\r\nOfficer II - Performs full duties under general supervision.\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification may be assigned to work on either a rotating or fixed shift basis, including nights, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. They are subject to call to duty in emergencies and may be required to work overtime with little or no notice. Upon completion of the academy training, officers will be assigned to a Division at the discretion of the Police Department.\r\n\r\nThe work of this classification involves frequent walking and standing, as well as operating vehicles and firearms. It also requires exposure to potentially hazardous law enforcement and public safety activities and conditions, such as adverse weather and encounters with armed and dangerous individuals.\r\n\r\nUpon successfully completing the agility test, background investigation, and psychological and medical examination, passers of the physical agility tests will be considered for attendance at the police training academy. The Police Academy is an academic, physical, and practical training program that introduces recruits to a career in law enforcement.\r\n\r\nThe paramilitary academy challenges recruits to develop self-discipline, perform under stressful situations, and focus on teamwork. After graduation from the Police Academy, you will be among the most highly trained police officers in the state and part of a family of motivated and proud law enforcement officers.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

\r\nEducation: Graduation from an accredited high school or high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission regulation.\r\n\r\n\r\nExperience:None.\r\n\r\n\r\nNote:The above educational requirement is set by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n\r\n\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

\r\n1. Employees in this classification who have not already done so must successfully complete the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n\r\n\r\n2. Employees in this classification will be required to secure a Police Officer certification as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to possess or obtain a special police commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-209, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n\r\n\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

\r\n1. Selection standards for Police Officer certification are established by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland. These selection criteria are listed in detail in the Code of Maryland Regulations 12.04.01.04 and include the following:\r\n- U.S. Citizenship\r\n- Must be at least 21 years of age\r\n- Satisfactory background investigation, including a check of criminal history\r\n- Oral interview\r\n- Physical and psychological examinations, truth verification, and drug test (COMAR 12.04.01.04)\r\n- Possession of a driver's license valid in the State of Maryland.\r\n\r\n\r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in and, therefore, will be required to provide the employer with a phone number where they can be reached.\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to bear firearms and to demonstrate practical knowledge and proficiency in the safe use and care of firearms on a periodic basis as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission.\r\n\r\n\r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

1. Initial Contact - Confirm candidate interest and qualifications.\r\n\r\n2. Fitness Testing - Physical fitness test for police trainee candidates, which consists of the following:\r\n\r\n- 1.5 Mile Run: Complete 1.5 mile run in 17 minutes\r\n- Sit ups: Complete 27 sit ups in 1 minute\r\n- Barrier Climb: Test ability to climb over a barrier.\r\n- Push ups: Complete 18 push ups in 1 minute\r\n- 150 lb. Weight Drag/Pull: Move weight at least 15 feet.\r\n- Sit and Reach: Sit and reach 16.5 inches or farther\r\n- Stair Climb: Traverse up and down two flights of stairs.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Application Review - Assess candidate-submitted materials.\r\n\r\n\r\n4. Background Check - Investigate candidate suitability.\r\n\r\n5. CVSA Test - Conduct Computer Voice Stress Analysis.\r\n\r\n6. Oral Board Interview - Candidate interviews with a 3-person panel.\r\n\r\n\r\n7. Conditional Offer - Extend a provisional job offer.\r\n\r\n8. Screenings - Psychological test, physical exam, and drug screening.\r\n\r\n\r\n9. Final Offer - Confirm official job offer upon passing screenings.\r\n\r\n\r\n10. Training & Certification - Complete field training (FTO), firearm qualifications, and MPTSC certification.\r\n\r\n\r\nIf all aspects of the process are successfully completed, applicants will be placed on an eligibility list for a period of one year.\r\n\r\nIf an applicant meets the minimum requirements to be considered for the position, they will be scheduled to complete a physical test designed to assess the applicant's fitness level and physical preparedness for the academy.\r\n

BENEFITS

The State of Maryland offers a generous benefits package that includes:\r\n- Tuition reimbursement, if funding is available, for those who qualify\r\n- Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis\r\n- Generous paid leave that increases with years of service\r\n- Paid holidays\r\n- Health coverage with low out-of-pocket costs\r\n- Employee & employer contributory pension plan\r\n\r\nClick on the link below for more information.\r\nSTATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Contact tammy.vehstedt@maryland.gov or call 410-767-4986 with questions about this recruitment. The online application process is STRONGLY preferred. Apply online at dgs.maryland.gov - Human Resources > Employment > Current Openings. If you are unable to submit your application online, please send your paper application to: Human Resources, Dept. of General Services, 301 W. Preston St., Suite 1311, Baltimore, MD 21201 by the closing date and time. TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay\r\n\r\n\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time