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Entry Level Police Officer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

LSU AgCenter

Police Officer 1, 2, or 3

Tampa, FL

Police Officer 1 - Entry Level; Police Officer 2 - Experienced; Police Officer 3 - Advanced. The physical area covered by the department includes the campus with over 500 principal buildings located ...

City of Coconut Creek

$75K/yr

Performs entry-level specialized work in law enforcement for the Police Department. Work is normally performed under the supervision of a ranking or senior officer; however, a Police Officer is ...

City of Palm Bay, FL

NON-CERTIFIED RECRUIT

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$1.7K/wk

... POLICE OFFICER RECRUITS TO BE SPONSORED TO ATTEND THE POLICE ACADEMY This is entry level law enforcement work for the purpose of training to become a Police Officer. The primary function of an ...

City of Palm Bay

NON-CERTIFIED RECRUIT

Palm Bay, FL

MINIMUM TRAINING & EXPERIENCE THE CITY OF PALM BAY IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR NON-CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICER RECRUITS TO BE SPONSORED TO ATTEND THE POLICE ACADEMY This is entry level law enforcement ...

City of Lauderhill, FL

Police Cadet

Lauderhill, FL · On-site

$74K/yr

The Police Academy prepares the cadet to become an entry-level law enforcement officer in the State of Florida. Employees in this classification perform practical skills and simulated activities that ...

City of Lauderhill

$74K/yr

The Police Academy prepares the cadet to become an entry-level law enforcement officer in the State of Florida. Employees in this classification perform practical skills and simulated activities that ...

Florida Institute of Technology

Officer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... police, fire, and emergency medical personnel. Additional responsibilities include providing ... This position is considered entry-level and developmental in nature; therefore, assignments will ...

Florida Institute of Technology

Officer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... police, fire, and emergency medical personnel. Additional responsibilities include providing ... This position is considered entry-level and developmental in nature; therefore, assignments will ...

Florida Institute of Technology

Security Officer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... police, fire, and emergency medical personnel. Additional responsibilities include providing ... This position is considered entry-level and developmental in nature; therefore, assignments will ...

Florida Institute of Technology

Security Officer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

... police, fire, and emergency medical personnel. Additional responsibilities include providing ... This position is considered entry-level and developmental in nature; therefore, assignments will ...

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All JobsPolice Officer JobsEntry Level Police Officer JobsEntry Level Police Officer Jobs in Florida

Entry Level Police Officer information

See Florida salary details

$24.3K

$46.4K

$77.3K

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police officer in Florida is $46,443.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $55,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level police officer?

Entry level police officers are individuals who have recently been hired by a police department and are in the initial stages of their law enforcement careers. They typically perform basic duties such as patrolling designated areas, responding to emergency calls, conducting preliminary investigations, and enforcing laws. Entry level officers often undergo a period of training at a police academy followed by on-the-job training with experienced officers. Their responsibilities and authority increase as they gain more experience and demonstrate their abilities.

What does an entry level police officer do?

The job duties of an entry-level police officer involve working to protect citizens and perform other law enforcement duties. Your responsibilities in this career include going on patrol, working to investigate crimes, and documenting complaints. An entry-level officer has completed officer training and public safety testing (PST) and has been sworn-in as a law enforcement professional. However, you may undergo additional on-the-job training with the assistance of a senior officer, and you may have a period of probationary employment until you have proven yourself in the field.

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 need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, a clean background, and successful completion of police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement technology such as body cameras, radio communication systems, and report-writing software is typically required. Strong soft skills include integrity, critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring public safety, upholding the law ethically, and responding effectively to emergencies.

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

Entry level police officers often face challenges such as adapting to shift work, learning departmental procedures, and developing effective communication skills in high-pressure situations. Balancing the demands of public interactions with the need to enforce the law can be stressful, especially when dealing with difficult or emotional incidents. New officers also spend significant time in training and mentorship programs, which help ease the transition but require adaptability and resilience.

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

AspectEntry Level Police OfficerPolice Dispatcher
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, communication training
Work EnvironmentPatrol, crime scenes, community interactionDispatch center, phone and radio communication
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsPolice departments, emergency communication centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

Entry Level Police Officers primarily patrol communities, enforce laws, and respond to incidents, requiring police academy training. Police Dispatchers handle emergency calls, coordinate responses, and communicate with officers, focusing on communication skills. Both roles are essential in law enforcement but differ in duties, environment, and training focus.

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

Entry level police officers are typically hired with little to no prior law enforcement experience, as agencies often provide training and academy instruction. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete physical and written tests. Having relevant skills such as communication, problem-solving, and a clean background can improve chances of hiring without prior experience.
More about Entry Level Police Officer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Officer jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Police Officer jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Police Officer job openings:

Entry Level Police Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police Officer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,443 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Police Officer 1, 2, or 3

Louisiana Workforce Commission

Tampa, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

All Job Postings will close at 12:01a.m. CST (1:01a.m. EST) on the specified Closing Date (if designated).If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application progress will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through "My Draft Applications" located on your Candidate Home page.Job Posting Title:Police Officer 1, 2, or 3Position Type:ClassifiedDepartment:LSUAM FA - CSPER - Police - Spprt - Title IX/CARE (Sarah McBride Drake (00010129))Work Location:0101 University Public Safety BuildingPay Grade:Job Description:

This position is a commissioned law enforcement position in which the incumbent serves as a uniformed or plainclothes member of the LSU Police Department assigned to various departmental units and/or details.

This position description describes the typical duties/work setting of the job. The actual duties and percentage effort/duty for a position listed on the position description may vary slightly, and the incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as assigned. Job distinctions: Police Officer 1 - Entry Level; Police Officer 2 - Experienced; Police Officer 3 - Advanced.

The physical area covered by the department includes the campus with over 500 principal buildings located on more than 1200 acres, and additional facilities (Innovation Park, FETA, Rural Life Museum, Hilltop Arboretum, and AgResearch, totaling nearly 4000 additional acres) located off campus in Baton Rouge. Work shifts are designed to best supplement the department in its mission to provide safety to the campus population.

Job Responsibilities

Provides proactive patrols to protect lives/property and responds to calls for service from the community. Detects suspicious activities and watches for criminal acts, incidents, accidents, and suspicious persons. Prepares incident reports for supervisor review and approval. Testifies in court to present evidence or act as a witness in criminal cases. May be asked to perform administrative duties, such as but not limited to attending meetings, attending events/protests, conducting witness interviews, performing duties associated with the courts, performing daily operations-style duties, and conducting general investigative activities. (35%)

Enforces state motor vehicle traffic laws. Investigates traffic crashes to determine causes, including gathering evidence and data from the crash scene. Prepares traffic crash reports and supplements as required. Sets up barricades and other traffic controls to assist various Facilities projects and arranges for the towing of vehicles out of restricted areas. (30%)

Reports directly to the Police Sergeant or supervisor of higher rank. Attends shift briefings related to patrol activities and attends law enforcement training as required. Drives police vehicles in the execution of duties. Obeys the general orders of the department and university policy and procedures.(10%)

Works assignments involving large crowds and special events control operations. Operates and maintains security access systems throughout LSU administrative and academic buildings. (10%)

Works assignments involving fire safety, environmental safety, hazardous materials, building security, and selective enforcement programs. Works emergency response assignments as they relate to medical incidents, hurricanes, floods, bomb threats, and/or any other catastrophic situations as required.(5%)

Communications Center - answers both routine and emergency telephone calls. (5%)

Other duties as assigned. (5%)

Additional Requirements

This position requires a valid driver's license, will require an MVR, and is subject to drug screens per PM-33/PS-67/FASOP HR-04.

This position is classified as a safety and security-sensitive position. These positions are subject to drug screens per PS-67/FASOP HR-04.

This position is considered emergency essential and may be required to report to campus in times of emergency and/or closure per PS-18.

Additional Information

Ability to work in all weather conditions. Overtime and weekend work. Ability to lift 50 pounds. Must be able to operate a computer, telephone, and other office equipment. Physically strenuous activity relative to the nature of law enforcement is required. This position will require a physical evaluation based on the required physical demands.

Applicants must have Civil Service test scores for 2100 - Protective Services Exam (PSE) in order to be considered for this vacancy unless exempted by Civil Service rule or policy. If you do not have a score prior to applying to this posting, it may result in your application not being considered.

Applicantswithouta current test score can apply to take the testhere.

Testing locations and schedules for State Civil Service test centers can be found here.

Minimum Qualifications

An applicant who meets the Minimum Qualifications and has a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification from a Louisiana-accredited training academy may be appointed by probational appointment or job appointment to a job that requires the Protective Services Exam without a test score. The applicant's POST certification shall not be under suspension or pending a revocation hearing.

Police Officer 1

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
No experience or training is required.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Possession of a current Louisiana driver's license.
Willingness and ability to attain a Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification.
An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or who is under indictment on a felony charge will be disqualified until relief from the disabilities imposed by state and federal laws is granted.

Police Officer 2

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
One year of law enforcement experience.
EXPERIENCE SUBSTITUTION:
Every 30 semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will substitute for one year of the required experience.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Possession of a current Louisiana driver's license.
Possession of an active Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification may be required.
An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or who is under indictment on a felony charge will be disqualified until relief from the disabilities imposed by state and federal laws is granted.

Police Officer 3

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Two years of law enforcement experience.
EXPERIENCE SUBSTITUTION:
Every 30 semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will substitute for one year of the required experience. The maximum substitution allowed is 60 semester hours which substitutes for two years of experience.
NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
Possession of a current Louisiana driver's license.
Possession of an active Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification may be required.
An applicant who has been convicted of a felony or who is under indictment on a felony charge will be disqualified until relief from the disabilities imposed by state and federal laws is granted.

Minimum Certifications/Licenses

Valid driver's license

Louisiana State Civil Service Job Specifications

Police Officer 1: http://apps01.civilservice.louisiana.gov/onestopjobinfo/DisplayJobSpec.aspx?JobCode=169660

Police Officer 2: http://apps01.civilservice.louisiana.gov/onestopjobinfo/DisplayJobSpec.aspx?JobCode=169680

Police Officer 3: http://apps01.civilservice.louisiana.gov/onestopjobinfo/DisplayJobSpec.aspx?JobCode=169700

Additional Job Description:Competencies:NoneSpecial Instructions:For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact Sgt. Sarah Drake at sdrake1@lsu.edu

Skills Needed:

Preferred Skills:

A permanent or probationary internal employee who is appointed to another position following certification from an open competitive eligible list is considered a new employee in the new position and shall serve a probationary period of six months.

Posting Date:August 13, 2026Closing Date (Open Until Filled if No Date Specified):August 20, 2026Additional Position Information:

Background Check - An offer of employment is contingent on a satisfactory pre-employment background check.

Benefits - LSU offers outstanding benefits to eligible employees and their dependents including health, life, dental, and vision insurance; flexible spending accounts; retirement options; various leave options; paid holidays; wellness benefits; tuition exemption for qualified positions; training and development opportunities; employee discounts; and more!

Positions approved to work outside the State of Louisiana shall be employed through Louisiana State University's partner, nextSource Workforce Solutions, for Employer of Record Services including but not limited to employment, benefits, payroll, and tax compliance. Positions employed through Employer of Record Services will be offered benefits and retirement as applicable through their provider and will not be eligible for State of Louisiana benefits and retirement.

Essential Position (Y/N):

LSU is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

All candidates must have valid U.S. work authorization at the time of hire and maintain that valid work authorization throughout employment. Changes in laws, regulations, or government policies may impact the university's ability to employ individuals in certain positions.

HCM Contact Information:

For questions or concerns related to updating your application with attachments (e.g., resumes, RS:17 documents), date of birth, or reactivating applications, please contact the LSU Human Resources Management Office at 225-578-8200 or email HR@lsu.edu. For questions or concerns regarding the status of your application or salary ranges, please contact the department using the information provided in the Special Instructions section of this job posting.

Louisiana Workforce Commission logo

About Louisiana Workforce Commission

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Louisiana Workforce Commission’s vision is to make Louisiana the best place in the country to get a job or grow a business, and our goal is to be the country's best workforce agency. Our mission is simple and straightforward – we put people to work. Today, the LWC is ideally positioned and structured to support and serve Louisiana’s employers, job seekers and workforce partners.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

2008

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