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Entry Level Police Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ESSENTIAL DUTIES A Police Recruit attends the Northern Michigan University Police Academy to learn and perform the responsibilities of an entry-level Marquette City Patrol Officer which includes the ...

Police Officer

Portage, MI · On-site

$29.63 - $43.76/hr

Step A for entry-level officers is $61,611.14 annually ($29.63/hour). *ALL police officers are now eligible to receive a 5% ANNUAL ATTENDANCE BONUS*. This bonus is unique to Portage Public Safety and ...

Police Officer

Portage, MI · On-site

$29.63 - $43.76/hr

Step A for entry-level officers is $61,611.14 annually ($29.63/hour). *ALL police officers are now eligible to receive a 5% ANNUAL ATTENDANCE BONUS*. This bonus is unique to Portage Public Safety and ...

Police Recruit

Marquette, MI · On-site

$26/hr

ESSENTIAL DUTIES A Police Recruit attends the Northern Michigan University Police Academy to learn and perform the responsibilities of an entry-level Marquette City Patrol Officer which includes the ...

ESSENTIAL DUTIES A Police Recruit attends the Northern Michigan University Police Academy to learn and perform the responsibilities of an entry-level Marquette City Patrol Officer which includes the ...

Police Cadet

Southfield, MI · On-site

$20/hr

Supplemental Information The Southfield Police Cadet Program is used as an applicant pool for hiring entry-level probationary Police Officers. However, participation in the Cadet Program does not ...

Police Cadet

Southfield, MI · On-site

$20/hr

Supplemental Information The Southfield Police Cadet Program is used as an applicant pool for hiring entry-level probationary Police Officers. However, participation in the Cadet Program does not ...

Police Officers provide for public safety by maintaining order, responding to emergencies ... is an entry level classification, no specific experience is required. (12 months probationary ...

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Entry Level Police information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$54.2K

$90.2K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Michigan is $54,168.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $64,900.00 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.

Is 27 too late to be a cop?

Entry-level police positions typically require candidates to be at least 21 years old, with some agencies accepting applicants up to their late 30s or early 40s. Age limits vary by department, but being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a career in law enforcement, especially if you meet other requirements such as physical fitness and background checks.

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 lowest level of police officer?

The lowest level of police officer is typically a probationary or entry-level officer, often called a patrol officer or police officer trainee. These officers usually complete a police academy training program and may need to pass written exams, physical tests, and background checks before being sworn in. Advancement to higher ranks such as sergeant or detective generally requires additional experience and testing.

What is entry-level law enforcement?

Entry-level law enforcement refers to the initial position in police work, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and passing a police academy training program. These roles involve basic policing duties such as patrolling, responding to calls, and enforcing laws, often with opportunities for advancement and additional certifications.

Can you become a cop with no experience?

Entry level police positions typically require applicants to meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete police academy training. Prior experience is not usually necessary, but candidates must demonstrate good character, physical fitness, and the ability to learn law enforcement skills. Certification and training are essential components of becoming a police officer.

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 Michigan? The most popular types of Police jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Michigan? For Entry Level Police jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 41% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,168 per year, or $26 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER (AFTER 7/1/05)

City of Dearborn Career Opportunities

Dearborn, MI • On-site

$91K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

SALARY:         Starting salary        $70,462
Corporal rank achieved after completion of 4 years $91,913

THE FOLLOWING MUST BE SUBMITTED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION:

  1. Applications must be submitted online at www.cityofdearborn.org
  2. Written notification from MCOLES of Physical Agility and Written Test scores - or - MCOLES # if currently certified.
  3. DD214 (if applicable)

EXAMINATION PROCESS:
The results at each step in the application process will determine eligibility for continuation to subsequent steps.  The process will include application review, personal history questionnaire, oral-board interview, psychological evaluation, background investigation, and chief’s interview.  Non-certified applicants who are selected will be enrolled in a police academy, sponsored by the Dearborn Police Department.  All candidates are required to successfully complete a Field Training Program.
SPECIAL NOTES:

Please do not include picture IDs, social security cards or birth certificates with application.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:

This is entry level police work in the protection of life and property, the prevention of crime, and the enforcement of criminal and traffic laws and local ordinances, as well as the apprehension of suspects and criminals. Employees must be able to independently exercise quick but sound judgment in applying police methods in emergency situations. As the employee acquires experience on the job additional responsibility will be granted. Employee works in a designated area on an assigned shift and may be assigned to special detail or training under supervision. Work is supervised by a superior officer through personal inspection, through review of reports, and through general appraisal of the effectiveness of the police service.

Employee interacts in a consistently pleasant and helpful manner to fellow employees, visitors, and citizens of the City of Dearborn and demonstrates the highest standards of internal and external customer service.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF WORK:

This is entry level police work in the protection of life and property, the prevention of crime, and the enforcement of criminal and traffic laws and local ordinances, as well as the apprehension of suspects and criminals. Employees must be able to independently exercise quick but sound judgment in applying police methods in emergency situations. As the employee acquires experience on the job additional responsibility will be granted. Employee works in a designated area on an assigned shift and may be assigned to special detail or training under supervision. Work is supervised by a superior officer through personal inspection, through review of reports, and through general appraisal of the effectiveness of the police service.

Employee interacts in a consistently pleasant and helpful manner to fellow employees, visitors, and citizens of the City of

Dearborn and demonstrates the highest standards of internal and external customer service.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Essential Job Functions (Functions essential to attaining job objectives):

  • Affects an arrest, forcibly if necessary, using handcuffs and other restraints.
  • Pursues fleeing suspects on foot, both day and night, in unfamiliar terrain.
  • Subdues resisting subjects using hands and feet while employing defensive tactics maneuvers or approved nonlethal weapons.
  • Climbs over obstacles; climbs through openings; jumps down from elevated surfaces; jumps over obstacles, ditches and streams; and crawls in confined areas to pursue, search, investigate and/or rescue.
  • Uses body force to gain entrance through barriers to search, seize, investigate and/or rescue.
  • Enters and exits vehicles quickly to perform rescue operations, pursues a suspect or answers an emergency call.
  • Loads, unloads, aims, and accurately fires handguns, shotguns, and other agency firearms from a variety of body positions in situations that justify the use of deadly force while maintaining emotional control under extreme stress.
  • Performs tasks which require lifting, carrying, or dragging people or heavy objects while performing arrests, rescues or general patrol functions.
  • Performs law enforcement patrol functions while working rotating shifts or with variable off days, and unanticipated overtime.
  • Conducts searches of buildings, homes and outdoor areas which may involve walking and standing for long periods of time and which requires the ability to see from a distance, to distinguish color and perceive shapes as well as discern smells, tastes and tactile sensations.
  • Conducts visual and audio surveillance for extended periods of time.
  • Performs searches of persons which involve touching and feeling to detect potential weapons and contraband.
  • Operates an emergency vehicle during both the day and night; in emergency and pursuit situations involving speeds in excess of posted limits while exercising due care and caution and in exception to traffic control devices; in congested traffic and in unsafe road conditions and environmental conditions such as fog, smoke, rain, ice and snow.
  • Operates mobile data terminal located in patrol vehicle to query computerized law enforcement data with appropriate accuracy and proficiency.
  • Communicates effectively over law enforcement radio channels while initiating and responding to radio communications, often under adverse conditions such as siren usage and high speed vehicle operation.
  • Communicates directly with people, giving information, directions and commands while listening effectively.
  • Reads and comprehends rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and the law for purposes of ensuring appropriate officer behavior/response and performing enforcement activities involving the public.
  • Exercises independent judgment within legal guidelines, to determine when there is reasonable suspicion to detain, when probable cause exits to search and arrest, and when force may be used and to what degree.
  • Manages interpersonal conflicts to maintain order.
  • Interacts and deal effectively with people from various social, ethnic and cultural backgrounds in range of interpersonal situations, demonstrating appropriate courtesy and respect for individual rights.
  • Gathers information in criminal investigations by interviewing and obtaining the statements of victims, witnesses, suspects, and confidential informant.
  • Prepares investigative and other reports, including sketches, using appropriate grammar, symbols, and mathematical computations.
  • Testifies as a witness in court.
  • Performs CPR and other lifesaving and rescue techniques on individuals in situations requiring immediate action, using appropriate procedures and safety precautions.
  • Demonstrates predictable and regular attendance.

Marginal Job Functions (Peripheral or incidental to primary job functions):

  • Assists jail administrator in City lock-up facility.
  • Maintains order in court and conduct prisoner to court from detention quarters.
  • Serves criminal processes including warrants and subpoenas.
  • Furnishes escorts when required.
  • Performs related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

  • Some knowledge of modern approved principles, practices and procedures of police work.
  • Some knowledge of federal and state laws and City ordinances, and of departmental rules and regulations.
  • Some knowledge of first aid methods.
  • Ability to satisfactorily complete required training.
  • Ability to learn streets and physical layout of the City and adjoining areas within an appropriate time frame.
  • Ability to perform essential job functions either with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Ability to cooperate with other officers and employees, to accept lines of authority, and to deal courteously but firmly with the general public.

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

  • Must have a high school diploma or GED from an accredited institution.

Must meet all employment standards for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers as established by MCOLES including:

  • A valid driver's license.

  • Good moral character and no record of criminal convictions (including expungements).

  • U. S. Citizenship.

  • Minimum age, 18 years.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION GIVEN TO CANDIDATES WITH:

  • Military duty with Honorable Discharge

  • Military Reserve or National Guard experience with an Honorable Discharge or currently active with good standing

  • Police Reserve experience

SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license issued by theState of Michiganand a satisfactory driving record. Must meet Michigan Law Enforcement Training Council testing requirements and physical standards (to be determined post-job offer) for certification as a police officer.