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Entry Level Police Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Mason City, IA

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 ...

City of Mason City

Police Officer

Mason City, IA

$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 ...

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All JobsPolice JobsEntry Level Police JobsEntry Level Police Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Police information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$58.4K

$97.2K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police 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 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 need a high school diploma or GED, completion of police academy training, and knowledge of law enforcement procedures. Familiarity with radio communication systems, report-writing software, and law enforcement databases is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers effectively serve and protect the community. These skills and qualities ensure officers can uphold the law, respond to emergencies, and build trust within the community.

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

Entry level police officers often encounter challenges such as adapting to shift work, handling stressful or unpredictable situations, and learning to apply law enforcement procedures in real-world scenarios. Building effective communication skills with both colleagues and the public is essential, as is balancing enforcement duties with community relations. Officers are also expected to quickly master report writing and legal documentation, all while working under close supervision and receiving ongoing training.

What are entry level police officers?

Entry level police officers are individuals who have recently been hired by a law enforcement agency and are beginning their careers in policing. They are typically responsible for basic law enforcement duties such as patrolling assigned areas, responding to calls for service, writing reports, and assisting the public. Entry level officers usually undergo training at a police academy before starting fieldwork, where they learn about criminal law, procedures, and community relations. As they gain experience, they may have opportunities for advancement within the department.

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

AspectEntry Level PoliceCorrectional Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, correctional officer training
Work EnvironmentPatrol, crime scenes, community interactionPrison facilities, detention centers
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsCorrectional facilities, prisons
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Police officers and Correctional Officers both require similar credentials and work in related environments within law enforcement. While police officers focus on patrolling and community safety, correctional officers manage inmates in detention facilities. Both roles serve the criminal justice system but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Police jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Police jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Entry Level Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,374 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Police Officer

City of Mason City, IA

Mason City, IA • On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Salary : $71,448.00 - $95,056.00 Annually
Location : 10 First St NW, Mason City, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 2025-00105
Department: Police
Opening Date: 07/03/2026
Residency Requirement?: Yes
Residency Requirement Map: https://files.municipalone.com/masoncity-ia/30MileResidencyMap1453102615071421AM.pdf
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:
  1. Apply Today: Submit your application and start your journey to becoming a Police Officer in Mason City.
  2. 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.
  3. 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
The City of Mason City offers a comprehensive benefits package for our Sworn Police employees. The benefits available include competitive vacation, personal & family sick leave, health/dental/life insurance, MFPRSI pension plan, long-term disability insurance, and a deferred compensation plan.
Although we have a 30 mile residency requirement, Sworn Police Staff choosing to purchase a home to live in Mason City will receive a $2,000 annual stipend.

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