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Entry Level Police Department Jobs in Washington

... entry level dispatchers. All Dispatchers are required to obtain and keep a Full Access NCIC/VCIN ... Examples Of Duties Answers Emergency and Non-Emergency phone calls made to the Police Department.

Police Officer I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

If so, the City of Alexandria's Police Department is encouraging you to apply for their Police Office I position. This is the entry-level officer position, with potential for professional growth.

The Mount Rainier Police Department has immediate openings for entry level to experienced (Maryland certified police officers at the rank of officer or police officer first class) or a person pending ...

Police Officer, Entry Level

MD · On-site

$72K - $136K/yr

Anne Arundel County, MD Job Type: Full-Time Permanent Job Number: 08618 Department: Police Opening ... ONLINE ENTRY LEVEL POLICE OFFICER EXAM: Once the announcement closes, applicants who meet the ...

Police Officer I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$63K - $114K/yr

If so, the City of Alexandria's Police Department is encouraging you to apply for their Police Office I position. This is the entry-level officer position, with potential for professional growth.

We're hiring for a Vehicle Prep Technician in Rockville, MD at Montgomery County Police Department! We are looking for an individual that understands the automotive electrical system and that knows ...

Vehicle Prep Technician

Rockville, MD · On-site

$28 - $30/hr

We're hiring for a Vehicle Prep Technician in Rockville, MD at Montgomery County Police Department! We are looking for an individual that understands the automotive electrical system and that knows ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Police Department information

See Washington salary details

$24.2K

$52.3K

$83.2K

How much do entry level police department jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police department in Washington is $52,258.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,188.00 and $60,662.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level police department job?

Entry level police department jobs typically refer to positions such as Police Officer, Patrol Officer, or Police Recruit. These roles are responsible for enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, patrolling assigned areas, conducting investigations, and writing reports. Candidates usually must meet minimum education and physical requirements, pass written tests and background checks, and complete police academy training. Entry level officers work under the supervision of experienced officers and may have opportunities for advancement with experience and further training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level police officer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Police Officer, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and a clean background, often followed by successful completion of police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement tools, such as radios, firearms, body cameras, and report management systems, is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and integrity help officers build trust and effectively manage high-pressure situations. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and fostering positive community relations.

What types of training and mentorship can new hires expect in an entry level police department role?

Newly hired entry-level police officers typically undergo a comprehensive training program that includes both classroom instruction and field training. Recruits attend a police academy where they learn about laws, procedures, defensive tactics, and community policing. After graduation, they are usually paired with experienced officers through a Field Training Officer (FTO) program, providing hands-on mentorship and guidance as they transition into active duty. This structured support system helps new officers build skills, confidence, and professionalism while adjusting to the unique demands of law enforcement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Police Department vs Police Officer?

AspectEntry Level Police DepartmentPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, community engagementLaw enforcement agencies, patrol, investigations
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal, state, or federal agenciesMunicipal, state, or federal agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Police Department roles typically refer to the initial positions within law enforcement agencies, requiring basic credentials and training. Police Officers are the standard frontline personnel performing patrols, investigations, and community safety duties. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Entry Level Police Department' emphasizes the starting point, while 'Police Officer' describes the role itself.

Can you get hired as an entry level police department with no experience?

Entry level police department positions typically require candidates to have a high school diploma or equivalent and to complete police academy training. While prior experience is not usually mandatory, applicants must pass background checks, physical fitness tests, and often obtain relevant certifications such as CPR or first aid. Strong communication skills and a clean record are also important for hiring consideration.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Police Department jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Police Department jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Police Department job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Police Department job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,258 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Police Officer (Entry-Level) - 50K Recruitment Incentive

US Judicial Branch

Washington, DC

$86K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

This is a full-time position with the Police Department of the Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, D.C.
Entry-Level hires that sign a three-year service agreement will receive incentive payments of $50,000 in total. Recruitment incentive details for are set forth in the duties section of this announcement.
Attend a monthly virtual recruitment event to find out more: https://www.joinscuspd.us/vreQualifications:The criteria listed below must be met in order to be eligible to apply:
  • An applicant's education/experience must include at least one of the following to be considered:
    • An Associate's degree or higher from an accredited institution (or being within six months of graduation); or
    • A minimum of one year of full-time experience as a sworn police officer; or
    • A minimum of three years of active duty military service (or one year of active duty military service for Military Police, Master-at-Arms, Security Forces, and Maritime Enforcement Specialists); or
    • A minimum of three years of work history.
  • Applicants must be mature, reliable, skilled in oral and written communication, and have excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Must have the ability to display a high standard of ethical conduct and be trusted in all work situations.
  • Applicants must have no record of felony convictions, and must not currently be involved in any pending criminal charges.
  • Applicants must be licensed to drive for at least one year at the time of application, and have an excellent driving record.
  • Applicants who possess prior military service must have been separated under honorable conditions (honorable discharge).
  • Status as a U.S. Citizen, National, or one who owes allegiance to the United States.
  • Applicants must be at least within six months of turning 21 years of age, but not yet 39 years of age at the date of application, with some exceptions as noted below:
    • Applicants over the age of 39 may still be considered if they can demonstrate sufficient prior coverage under the federal law enforcement retirement system special provision to allow them to achieve at least 20 years of total service before reaching age 60. See 5 U.S. Code 8425(d) for details on the special provision.
Education:A high school diploma is the minimum educational requirement for applicants.Employment Type: OTHER