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Entry Level Law Enforcement Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Salinas

Police Recruit (Entry Level)

Salinas, CA · On-site

$7K/mo

POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) with minimum T-Score of 48. The department will accept PELLETB results from other agencies. Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB)- Applicants must ...

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Entry Level Law Enforcement information

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$33.5K

$49.3K

$69.5K

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

As of Jun 8, 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.

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.
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:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs are:
Entry Level Law Enforcement jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Law Enforcement job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, and 27% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,343 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Border Patrol Agent - Law Enforcement

Border Patrol Agent - Law Enforcement

US Customs and Border Protection

Glendale, CA • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

U.S. Customs and Border Protection rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 644 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

The U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) needs you for higher grade opportunities and entry-level openings as a Border Patrol Agent, providing security for our nation’s borders from those who threaten legitimate trade and travel, safety from harmful substances like fentanyl, and humanitarian aid to those in need. 

Learn from an insider’s viewpoint about the challenges and rewards on Tuesday, June 2nd at 2 PM ET in a live webinar presentation by USBP Agents. Federal civil service is a great place to start building a career in law enforcement – join the call and learn about the qualifications you’ll need to get your career started. 

Click on the Apply button on this site to register for the event. Complete the short form and select Border Patrol Agent from the Positions of Interest dropdown menu. You’ll receive the webinar link approximately two days prior to the event.

***EARN UP TO $60,000 IN RECRUITMENT & RETENTION INCENTIVES for newly appointed Border Patrol Agents. Conditions apply. Attend the webinar or visit our website for details: https://careers.cbp.gov/s/career-paths/usbp/bpa. 

Not interested in law enforcement? There are many other great career opportunities at CBP. Go ahead and register for this webinar and select one of the many other career opportunities so CBP can stay in touch with news of future career events and position openings. 

What U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

U.S. Customs and Border Protection serves and protects America with a workforce of more than 60,000 law enforcement and support professionals. We're united by our mission to guard our borders from threats and illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

Year founded

2003

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