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Entry Level Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applicant Preparation Guide for the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery. Applicant Frequently asked questions link: The City of Vernon will accept POST exam scores from other agencies. The ...

Your career in law enforcement begins here. Before we go on and tell you why the Redmond Police ... To be considered for an entry-level law enforcement officer position at our agency and others, you ...

Police Trainee

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$85K/yr

S.T. Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) * By submitting a T-score for a California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLET B) exam taken from an outside agency within ...

This position performs entrylevel law enforcement duties to protect life and property, enforce state and local laws, and serve the citizens of Woods Cross with integrity and professionalism. New ...

Upon advancement to Police Officer I, the employee will be required to successfully complete a field training program which will allow them to perform entry level protective service law enforcement ...

Police Officer Trainee

Wendell, NC · On-site

$50K - $77K/yr

Obtain a passing score on the state mandated law enforcement certification examination. Upon completion of the trainee phase and advancement to Police Officer I, the employee will perform entry-level ...

This position performs entry-level law enforcement duties to protect life and property, enforce state and local laws, and serve the citizens of Woods Cross with integrity and professionalism. New ...

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Entry Level Law Enforcement information

See salary details

$33.5K

$49.3K

$69.5K

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

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level law enforcement in the United States is $49,343.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Law Enforcement Officer, and why are they important?

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.

Can I work in law enforcement without being a cop?

Entry level law enforcement jobs typically require being a sworn police officer, which involves completing police academy training and obtaining certification. However, there are support roles such as crime scene technicians, administrative staff, or community service officers that do not require police certification but still contribute to law enforcement agencies. These positions often require relevant skills, background checks, and sometimes specialized training.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Entry level law enforcement positions often accept candidates in their late 20s and beyond, as age requirements typically focus on physical fitness and background checks rather than age. Many agencies value life experience and maturity, making 27 a reasonable age to start a law enforcement career if you meet the qualifications and pass the necessary training and exams.

What is the easiest law enforcement job to get into?

Entry-level law enforcement positions such as police officer or sheriff's deputy are generally considered the easiest to enter, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent, passing a basic background check, and completing a police academy training program. These roles typically have the most accessible entry requirements compared to specialized or higher-ranking law enforcement jobs.

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

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.

What are entry level law enforcement jobs?

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.

Can you apply to be a police officer with no experience?

Entry level law enforcement positions typically do not require prior experience, but applicants must meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete police academy training. Some agencies may prefer or require related skills like communication, physical fitness, or problem-solving abilities.
More about Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Law Enforcement job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Law Enforcement jobs? The most popular types of Law Enforcement jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Law Enforcement job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,343 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Police Officer Recruit

Police Officer Recruit

City of Vernon

Los Angeles, CA

$81K - $99K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Summary POLICE OFFICER RECRUIT MONTHLY SALARY: $6,828 - $8,299 PLUS, A COMPETITIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE THIS RECRUITMENT IS TO ESTABLISH AN ELIGIBILITY LIST FOR THE VERNON POLICE DEPARTMENT TO BE USED FOR FUTURE VACANCIES. THIS IS A CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT AND MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME WITH OR WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. Under close supervision, attends a California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) basic training academy to obtain California Peace Officer Certification.

This is the entry level non-sworn, non-peace officer, training position. Essential Functions Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required.

The job announcement does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Attends classroom training sessions and takes notes required to obtain State Peace Officer Certification. Completes written, oral and skills proficiency examinations for a wide variety of required Peace Officer skills and knowledge and maintains required levels of proficiency.

Participates in physical conditioning training and testing and maintains required levels of physical fitness. Adheres to CA POST academy rules and regulations. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications Education, Training and Experience Guidelines: High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Must be at least 21 years old upon graduation from the academy, and per California Government Code Section 1031 and 1031.5 must be a United States citizen or a permanent resident who has applied for citizenship at least one (1) year before employment application. Must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation including a polygraph, and meet the minimum POST standards for medical examinations and physical ability

Upon successful completion of all required training, Police Officer Recruits will be eligible for consideration for appointment to a sworn Police Officer position. Police Officer Recruits who do not successfully complete all required training will be automatically terminated from employment with the City without the right of appeal. LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A valid California State Driver's License is required.

Supplemental Information Knowledge of: City and Vernon Police Department (VPD) policies and procedures. Safe work practices, occupational hazards, and safety precautions. Skill in: Maintaining academic and professional standards in accordance with VPD policies.

Following verbal and written instruction. Reading and understanding training materials and completing written, physical, and skills testing. Learning and applying training materials and training instructions.

Communicating effectively verbally and in writing. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Work is performed in a classroom environment, and in the field for training exercises; requires strenuous physical efforts and ability to meet physical standards of the CA POST Academy. SELECTION PROCESS: Completed application packets will be reviewed and only those applicants whose qualifications best meet or exceed the requirements of the position and needs of the City, will be invited to participate further in the selection process, which may include the P.O.S.T

written exam, physical agility exam, and a panel interview. Candidates must be specific and complete in describing their qualifications for the position. Failure to state all pertinent information may lead to elimination from consideration.

Applications must be submitted online. If you submit multiple applications, only the most recent application will be considered. Copies of required certifications must be submitted with the application.

Stating "see resume" is not an acceptable substitution for a completed application. To view the complete job description, please visit our website at www.cityofvernon.org. It is the applicant's responsibility to notify the Human Resources Department of any changes to their contact information

WRITTEN EXAM: (PASS/FAIL) The City of Vernon administers the California POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLET-B). An applicant preparation guide can be found using the following link: Applicant Preparation Guide for the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery. Applicant Frequently asked questions link: https://post.ca.gov/LE-Entry-Level-Test-Battery-Applicant-FAQs

The City of Vernon will accept POST exam scores from other agencies. The passing T-Score for the City of Vernon is 45. Candidates who have taken the POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLET-B) examination at another agency and have received a T-Score of 45 or higher, may attach a copy of their test score results on agency letterhead for consideration.

All scores are subject to verification. POST regulations prohibit examinees from taking this exam more than one time in any 30-day calendar period from any exam site in the State of California. Be advised that if you make multiple attempts to take this exam within a 30-day calendar period, POST will invalidate your exam.

PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST (PAT): (PASS/FAIL) This Physical Agility Test consists of the following components: a. 99-yard obstacle course b. 165 Drag 32ft c.

Chain Link Fence Climb 6ft d. Solid Wall Climb 6ft e. 500 Yard Sprint Candidates who have taken the Physical Agility Test (PAT) examination at another agency and have received a passing score within one year from the date application is submitted, may attach a copy of their score results, on agency letterhead for consideration and must include all components listed above.

All scores are subject to verification. ORAL BOARD INTERVIEW: (Weighted 100%) Those candidates deemed most qualified will be invited to participate in an oral board interview to evaluate experience, education, and qualifications for the position. BACKGROUND: Candidates are subject to and must successfully pass an extensive and thorough background investigation.

CITY OF VERNONHUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT Lisette Grizzelle, Human Resources Program Manager lgrizzelle@cityofvernonca.gov (323) 583-8811, ext. 166 "The City of Vernon is an Equal Opportunity Employer".