Police Officer
$71K - $95K/yr
Join the Mason City Police Department. Are you passionate about serving your community and starting ... Generous Relocation Package: $5,000 for entry level officers and $9,000 for certified officers to ...
Police Officer
$71K - $95K/yr
Join the Mason City Police Department. Are you passionate about serving your community and starting ... Generous Relocation Package: $5,000 for entry level officers and $9,000 for certified officers to ...
Police Officer
Mason City, IA · On-site
$71K - $95K/yr
Police Opening Date: 07/03/2026 Residency Requirement?: Yes Residency Requirement Map: Description ... Generous Relocation Package : $5,000 for entry level officers and $9,000 for certified officers to ...
Police Officer
Mason City, IA · On-site
$71K - $95K/yr
Police Opening Date: 07/03/2026 Residency Requirement?: Yes Residency Requirement Map: Description ... Generous Relocation Package : $5,000 for entry level officers and $9,000 for certified officers to ...
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Entry Level Police Officer information
See Iowa salary details
$30.5K - $36.6K
14% of jobs
$36.6K - $42.7K
5% of jobs
$44.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$42.7K - $48.7K
19% of jobs
The median wage is $52.6K / yr.
$48.7K - $54.8K
19% of jobs
$54.8K - $60.8K
11% of jobs
$66.3K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$60.8K - $66.9K
8% of jobs
$66.9K - $73K
7% of jobs
$73K - $79K
6% of jobs
$79K - $85.1K
5% of jobs
$85.1K - $91.2K
3% of jobs
$91.2K - $97.2K
2% of jobs
$30.5K
$58.4K
$97.2K
How much do entry level police officer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police officer in Iowa is $58,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $70,000.00 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 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 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 is the difference between Entry Level Police Officer vs Police Dispatcher?
| Aspect | Entry Level Police Officer | Police Dispatcher |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma or GED, police academy training | High school diploma or GED, communication training |
| Work Environment | Patrol, crime scenes, community interaction | Dispatch center, phone and radio communication |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Law enforcement agencies, police departments | Police departments, emergency communication centers |
| Common Search & Comparison | Yes | No |
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.
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.
More about Entry Level Police Officer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Police Officer jobs in Iowa?
The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Police Officer jobs?
Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Police Officer job openings:
$71K - $95K/yr
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement
Re-posted 5 days ago
Job description
Description Ready to Make an Impact. Join the Mason City Police Department. Are you passionate about serving your community and starting a rewarding career in law enforcement.
The City of Mason City is calling on dedicated, motivated individuals to join our police force. This is more than just a job-it's an opportunity to make a lasting difference in a city that truly values its officers. Mason City, a thriving community of 27,000 residents, is the perfect place to start or continue your law enforcement career.
Located just two hours from Des Moines and the Twin Cities, Mason City offers the best of both worlds: the conveniences of a larger city with the charm and close-knit feel of small-town living. It's a community that's growing, and we're looking for passionate officers to grow with us. What We Offer: $5,000 Hiring Bonus for Certified Officers Competitive Salary: Starting at $71,450 per year for non-certified officers and up to $95,050 per year for Iowa-certified officers, based on experience.
Additional Compensation: Earn extra for college education, shift differentials, and more. Generous Relocation Package: $5,000 for entry level officers and $9,000 for certified officers to help you settle into your new role. Homeownership Incentives: Receive a $2,000 annual stipend if you choose to purchase a home and live in Mason City.
Comprehensive Benefits: Full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and a retirement pension with options to retire as early as age 55. What We're Looking For: Minimum Age: 20 years or older at the time of hire. Education: High school diploma or GED.
Driver's License: Valid state driver's license and an acceptable driving record. No Felonies or Disqualifying Misdemeanors: You must have no felony convictions and no disqualifying misdemeanors within the last seven years. Physical & Vision Requirements: Must meet the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA) physical fitness and vision standards.
For Entry Level Officers: Pass the written POST test and ILEA required physical fitness test. For Certified Officers: Only need to take the physical agility test for baseline purposes (no written POST test required for officers without a break in service over 180 days). Relocation & Residency: Live within 30 miles of Mason City within six months of hire.
The Process: Apply Today: Submit your application and start your journey to becoming a Police Officer in Mason City. Physical & Written Testing: If you're a non-certified officer, you'll take both a physical agility test and the written POST exam. Certified officers only need to complete the physical agility test.
Candidates will receive an email with details on how to prepare for testing, including the date, time, and location for the written and physical test once an application is received. Post-Offer Evaluation: Once offered the position, you'll undergo a physical/drug test, polygraph, and psychological evaluation. Why Mason City.
Mason City offers a high quality of life for you and your family, with top-tier schools, abundant parks, and a close-knit community. Whether you're looking to start or continue your law enforcement career, Mason City is the place for you. This is more than just a job-it's an opportunity to join a team that values service, integrity, and commitment to the community, with opportunities for career growth and advancement.
Don't wait-your future as a Mason City Police Officer begins now. Equal Opportunity Employer
About City of Mason City
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Public administration
Company size
201 - 500 Employees
Headquarters location
Mason City, IA, US
Year founded
1853