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Entry Level Police Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

City of Bexley, OH

Police Officer - ENTRY-LEVEL

Bexley, OH · On-site

$71K - $119K/yr

Purpose of Work WAITLIST: Entry Level Police Officer The City of Bexley is currently accepting applications for Entry Level Police Officers. Interested candidates may apply here to join the waitlist ...

City of Toledo, OH

Police Officer

Toledo, OH · On-site

$67K - $84K/yr

Police Opening Date: 04/02/2026 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Description The Toledo ... Upon completion of the entry level exam, all candidate scores are automatically forwarded to the ...

City of Toledo

Police Officer

Toledo, OH

$67K - $84K/yr

Description The Toledo Police Department offers full testing services for the position of Police ... Upon completion of the entry level exam, all candidate scores are automatically forwarded to the ...

City of Riverside (OH)

Police Cadet

Dayton, OH

$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

Police Department Opening Date: 07/22/2026 Closing Date: 8/19/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Description The Police Cadet is an entry-level, non-sworn position intended for individuals currently enrolled in ...

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Entry Level Police information

See Ohio salary details

$30.9K

$59.1K

$98.4K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Ohio is $59,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $70,800.00 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 Ohio? The most popular types of Police jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Ohio? For Entry Level Police jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Entry Level Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,084 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Lateral Entry-Level Police Officer

Lateral Entry-Level Police Officer

City Of Lakewood

Lakewood, OH • On-site

$73K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

City Of Lakewood (Colorado) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

115th of 832 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Lateral Entry Level Police Officer

The City of Lakewood is accepting applications for an entry level Police Officer position. This appointment is being made through a lateral entry process open to candidates who are currently Police Officers or who have been employed as Police Officers in the State of Ohio within the past year.

Qualified candidates must provide proof of current or past appointment through a competitive Civil Service examination process in Ohio.

To apply, candidates must:

    • Complete an application for employment,
    • Show proof of High School Diploma or GED,
    • Have a valid Ohio Driver’s license with a good driving record (six or more violation points may be disqualifying),
    • Provide proof of OPOTC Certification

To be considered, applicants must:

    • Have current or previous peace officer employment as a result of a civil service examination process,
    • Have no more than a one year break in service from previous employment as a peace officer,
    • Possess adequate physical ability to perform all duties and utilize all issued equipment,
    • Be at least twenty-one (21) years of age at time of appointment, and
    • Successfully complete polygraph and background investigations, medical and psychological exams, and drug testing

Candidates must also complete a physical agility examination to be conducted at the Cuyahoga Community College Police Academy.

Starting salary: $73,921.13 – $85,607.45, based on prior experience, plus benefits, including:

  • Competitive health insurance plan
  • 152 annual holiday hours that be used as time off or pay in addition to vacation
  • Annual $2,400 firearms proficiency/body worn camera bonus
  • Annual $2,000 uniform allowance
  • Credit for additional vacation time, based on previous years of service
  • $1.00 an hour LEADS bonus

The City of Lakewood is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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