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Entry Level Police Department Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Montclair, CA

Police Dispatcher

Montclair, CA · On-site

$60K/yr

Type 40 Net Words Per Minute (WPM) SELECTION PROCESS The Montclair Police Department offers full testing services for the position of Entry-Level Police Dispatcher through National Testing Network ...

City of Tumwater

Entry Level Police Officer

Olympia, WA

$6K - $9K/mo

The Tumwater Police Department is continuously looking for Entry Level Police Officer candidates. We're searching for individuals to diversify and enhance our excellent team. To be considered for the ...

City of Gresham, OR

Entry Level Police Officer

Gresham, OR · On-site

$81K - $103K/yr

The Gresham Police Department consists of 129 sworn positions. All employees are expected to strive ... Entry Level Police Officer: 1) You must meet all the following State Department of Public Safety ...

City of Fife

Entry Level Police Officer

Fife, WA

$91K - $119K/yr

The City utilizes a continuous testing process for entry level Police Officer positions. The City ... Department Information: Mission Statement: The Fife Police Department partners with the community ...

City of Seattle

Police Officer ENTRY-LEVEL

Seattle, WA

$117K - $154K/yr

Position Description The Seattle Police Department is looking to create a diverse team of ... The City of Seattle is offering a $7,500 hiring bonus for entry-level police officers. Please see ...

City of Fife

Entry Level Police Officer

Fife, WA · On-site

$6K - $8K/mo

The City utilizes a continuous testing process for entry level Police Officer positions. The City ... Department Information: MISSION STATEMENT The Fife Police Department partners with the community to ...

City of Fife

Entry Level Police Officer

Fife, WA · On-site

$6K - $8K/mo

The City utilizes a continuous testing process for entry level Police Officer positions. The City ... Department Information: MISSION STATEMENT The Fife Police Department partners with the community to ...

City of Seattle, WA

Police Officer ENTRY-LEVEL

Seattle, WA · On-site

$117K - $154K/yr

Seattle Police Department - Uniform Civil Service Opening Date: 01/01/2026 Closing Date: 12/31/2026 ... The City of Seattle is offering a $7,500 hiring bonus for entry-level police officers. Please see ...

City of Gresham

Entry Level Police Officer

Gresham, OR · On-site

$81K - $103K/yr

The Gresham Police Department consists of 129 sworn positions. All employees are expected to strive ... Entry Level Police Officer: 1) You must meet all the following State Department of Public Safety ...

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Entry Level Police Department information

See salary details

$22.5K

$48.7K

$77.5K

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

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police department in the United States is $48,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry level police department jobs?

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 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.

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

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.
More about Entry Level Police Department jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Police Department jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Police Department job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs? The most popular types of Police Department jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Police Department jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Police Department jobs include:
Entry Level Police Department jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police Department job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,672 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER (LATERAL OR ENTRY LEVEL)

City of Dickinson, ND

Dickinson, ND • On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Full-time

PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

City Of Dickinson Police Department

Join the City Of Dickinson Police Department and build a career that truly makes a difference. As a community-driven law enforcement agency, we are committed to protecting the safety and well-being of those we serve. We are actively recruiting both entry-level candidates and experienced lateral officers who are ready to serve with integrity, professionalism, and purpose. If you're looking for a rewarding career where your work has a real impact every day, we encourage you to apply and become part of our team.

Salary & Benefits:

  • Entry-Level Officers: $60,345 $72,005 per year (based on qualifications and experience)
  • Lateral Officers: $72,006 $81,468 per year (based on qualifications and experience)
  • Extra $1.00 per hour for night differential pay
  • Lateral Officer Sign-On Bonus: Up to $5,000, with an optional vacation time package
  • FREE membership to the West River Community Center for you and your family
  • 12 FREE college credits at Dickinson State University for you and/or your immediate family members
  • Opportunities for training and career advancement

Requirements:

Entry-Level Police Officer:

  • Must be at least 20 years old
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. (Associate degree preferred)
  • College-level coursework or specialized training in law enforcement, criminal justice, or a related field is highly desirable

Lateral Police Officer:

  • Must hold a current North Dakota POST certification or an equivalent out-of-state certification
  • Be in good standing with your current law enforcement agency (no ongoing internal, criminal, or civil investigations)
  • Minimum of three consecutive years of full-time law enforcement field experience
  • Must be employed full-time with arrest powers by a state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency OR have been laid off or voluntarily retired within the past 12 months while in good standing and eligible for rehire
  • Additional qualifications apply for agencies with minimum sworn officer/deputy requirements

Want More Information? Text a recruiter at 701-690-2739 to learn more about joining our team. Ready to Serve? Apply Today!

Join us in our mission to protect and serve the Dickinson community. Become part of a dedicated team that makes a positive impact every day.

Apply