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Entry Level Police Officer Jobs in Springfield, OH

City of Riverside (OH)

Police Cadet

Dayton, OH · On-site

$55K/yr

Description The Police Cadet is an entry-level, non-sworn position intended for individuals currently enrolled in an Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA)-certified basic training program. The ...

City of Riverside, OH

Police Cadet

Dayton, OH · On-site

$55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... entry-level, non-sworn position intended for individuals currently enrolled in an Ohio Peace ... The purpose of this position is to prepare recruits for a career as sworn law enforcement officers ...

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All JobsPolice Officer JobsEntry Level Police Officer JobsEntry Level Police Officer Jobs in Springfield, OH

Entry Level Police Officer information

See Springfield, OH salary details

$30.7K

$58.6K

$97.6K

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 Springfield, OH is $58,612.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,700.00 and $70,300.00 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 Springfield, OH?

The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Springfield, OH are:

What cities near Springfield, OH are hiring for Entry Level Police Officer jobs?

Cities near Springfield, OH 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 Springfield, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,612 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Entry Level/Lateral Transfer Police Officer

City of Riverside (OH)

Dayton, OH • On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago

City Of Riverside (California) rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 846 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Description Under the direction of the Police Sergeant, the Police Officer is responsible for enforcing laws and ordinances set by the State of Ohio and the City of Riverside. Work involves prevention, detection, and investigation of accidents and criminal activities, security and safety of prisoners, protection for the public and maintain law and order. Officers must be able to act without direct supervision in emergency situations.

Example of Duties ****NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ENTRY LEVEL AND LATERAL TRANSFER POSITIONS*** Protect and serve the community by maintaining law and order, enforcing local, state, and federal laws, and responding to emergency calls promptly. Conduct routine patrols in assigned areas to ensure public safety and deter criminal activities. Investigate crimes, accidents, and incidents, collect evidence, and interview witnesses to build strong cases for prosecution.

Maintain detailed records of activities, prepare reports, and participate in court proceedings when required. Aid and support to the public, offer guidance on safety measures, and resolve conflicts when appropriate. Collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, first responders, and community organizations to address community concerns and enhance public safety initiatives.

Stay updated on current laws, police procedures, and law enforcement best practices through regular training and professional development. Required Qualifications For Entry-Level Officers: High school diploma or GED equivalent. Successful completion of a certified police academy program at time of appointment.

Valid driver's license and clean driving record. Have no felony record. Minimum 21 years of age at date of appointment.

Strong moral character and a commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards. U.S. citizen or permanent resident authorized to work in the U.S

Completed testing with the National Testing Network (NTN) For Lateral Transfer Officers: Must be OPOTC certified. Minimum of 2 years of active law enforcement experience at a municipality or equivalent in Ohio. Demonstrated an excellent work history and passion for community involvement.

Minimum 21 years of age at date of appointment. Supplemental Information Pay for this position starts at $33.07 per hour for Entry-Level Officers. For Lateral Transfer Officers, the starting pay may vary based on experience and qualifications

The department offers a competitive benefits package, which includes health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, 12 paid time holidays, three personal days, longevity, assistance with college, compensation time, and ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and career advancement. All entry level applicants for the position of Police Officer must complete the National Testing Network (NTN) examination in addition to the application. Please go to www.nationaltestingnetwork.com to schedule a test

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