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Entry Level Police Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

City of Odessa Police

Police Recruit

Odessa, TX

Lt./Sergeant Summary: Entry-level position for non-certified Police Officer applicants. Receives mandatory orientation and training. May be assigned to various department operations until entry into ...

City of Odessa

Police Recruit

Odessa, TX

Police Recruit Entry-level position for non-certified Police Officer applicants. Applicants applying for this position must be at least 20 years or older. Job Class: 4651 Department: Police Reports ...

City of Missouri City

Police Cadet

Missouri City, TX

$54K/yr

This is an entry-level, professional staff, full-time position with the City of Missouri City Police Department. Individuals hired as Police Cadets must attend and pass an academy curriculum, meet ...

City of Friendswood

Police Officer

Friendswood, TX

$91K/yr

Enrolled in a TCOLE accredited entry-level program (police academy); * 3 years of Active Duty in the U.S. Armed Forces with an Honorable Discharge; or * Possess 60 accredited college hours with a ...

City of Odessa

Police Recruit

Odessa, TX · On-site

$71K/yr

Lt./Sergeant Summary: Entry-level position for non-certified Police Officer applicants. Receives mandatory orientation and training. May be assigned to various department operations until entry into ...

City of Friendswood

Police Officer

Friendswood, TX · On-site

$33.98 - $44.08/hr

Enrolled in a TCOLE accredited entry-level program (police academy); * 3 years of Active Duty in the U.S. Armed Forces with an Honorable Discharge; or * Possess 60 accredited college hours with a ...

Edgewood ISD

Police Officer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$25.07/hr

Terms of Employment: 12 months/ 226 days per year. Compensation is at Police Pay Plan P3 on the EISD Compensation Plan. Entry level rate of pay is $25.07/hour with additional consideration based upon ...

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Entry Level Police information

See Texas salary details

$30.3K

$57.9K

$96.4K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Texas is $57,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,200.00 and $69,400.00 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 Texas? The most popular types of Police jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Texas? For Entry Level Police jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Entry Level Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,901 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Entry Level Police Officer

City of College Station, TX

College Station, TX • On-site

$31.45/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Salary: $31.45 Hourly
Location : College Station, TX
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2602552
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 03/24/2026
Hiring Range: $31.25
Description
Perform a variety of law enforcement and crime prevention tasks, investigative work, special assignments, technical and administrative tasks in support of the Police Department, while protecting the lives and property of the citizens of College Station through the enforcement of federal, state and municipal laws codes and ordinances.
Additional Assignments within this rank may include, but not limited to:
Patrol, traffic, criminal investigator, crime prevention officer, field training officer, school resource officer, recruitment/training officer or any other assignment, as designated by the Police Chief.
Principal Duties
The following represent the core areas of responsibilities, however, incumbents function to provide a broad range of police services and specific duties that will vary based on assignment. Any one position may not include all of the duties listed. In addition, the listed duties may not include all tasks that may be found within a position in this class.
  1. Participate in a variety of law enforcement activities which include, but not limited to, arresting offenders and suspects for traffic and criminal offenses, preparing for and appearing in court for criminal, civil, and other law enforcement related matters, enforcing traffic laws, investigating traffic accidents, directing traffic (when necessary), serving civil and criminal papers, guarding and transporting prisoners and responding to emergency calls (accidents, burglaries, prowlers, etc.).
  2. Respond to calls for assistance, policy enforcement, medical help, or safety; collect information, assist with possible medical emergencies, and determine need for further action; perform lifesaving procedures when necessary; physically apprehend and search suspects utilizing appropriate techniques and maneuvers; and conduct security checks on commercial buildings and residences.
  3. Patrol an assigned area by car, motorcycle, bicycle, or on foot to discourage crime, maintaining responsibility and accountability for assigned geographic area.
  4. Perform and assist in criminal investigations, secure crime scenes and preserve evidence, and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and the investigation of offenses.
  5. Build and maintain effective partnerships with community groups and members and respond to requests and inquiries from citizens concerning laws and City ordinances.
  6. Prepare and submit reports on crimes and activities.
  7. Maintain required training proficiencies.
  8. Perform related duties as assigned, to include assisting other Police officers in conducting assigned duties and responsibilities as necessary.

Qualifications
Required:
GED equivalent plus 12 hours of college; or 2 years of continuous military service; or High school diploma
Basic TCOLE peace officer certification (licensed) or the ability to complete the basic peace officer academy (non-licensed)
Valid Texas Driver's License
United States citizen
Knowledge of existing criminal and traffic codes (licensed)
Ability to maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.
Ability to perform a variety of physically demanding maneuvers and activities while involved in law enforcement and rescue operations, including running, walking, stooping, bending, rolling, crawling, climbing, jumping, lifting, carrying, dragging, and safely operating assigned equipment and vehicles
Ability to work under a variety of unfavorable conditions including exposure to gunfire, harsh weather, poor or no lighting, exposure to hazardous chemicals and smoke, extremes in temperatures, all types of weather conditions, electrical hazards, armed and dangerous persons, communicable diseases, etc.
Must be 21 years of age or older to complete the Police Academy.
Preferred: Bachelor's Degree
Supplemental Information
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Drug Screening: Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this position, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy.
Additional Criminal Background Screening Required: In addition to the standard pre-employment criminal background check, individuals receiving a conditional offer for this position shall be subject to a finger-print based background screening due to the required access to secured buildings and/or secure data systems.
Entry Level Police Officer Testing: Various
  • Candidates will be scheduled for the written and physical test on various dates and times
    POLICE OFFICER SELECTION PROCESS
  • Candidate Applies Before Application Filing Deadline
  • Personal History Statement - Due at or Before the Written Examination
  • Written Examination Administered
  • Preliminary Information Form
  • Physical Fitness Test (1.5 Mile Run or 2000-Meter Row)
  • Preliminary Interview
  • Records Check
  • Oral Interview
  • Fingerprinting Check
  • Polygraph Examination
  • Background Investigation
  • Chief's Panel Interview
  • Drug Screen and Medical Exam*
  • Psychological Examination*

*Candidate selected OR application held for 6 months for future consideration
*Candidate must be successful in each phase of the selection process.
*Candidate may be eliminated or disqualified at any point in the process for failure to meet the criteria set forth by the Police Department.
*A conditional offer of employment will have been made before the drug screen, medical exam and psychological exam are administered.
The expected duration of the application process is 60-90 days. Those successfully completing the selection process will be placed on an eligibility list for 6 months. After 6 months, the applicant must reapply. Applicants who fail to successfully complete any portion of the selection process shall be notified in writing by the Human Resources Department. This notification will include the eligibility date to reapply which will be no sooner than 30 days from the rejection date.
An Equal Opportunity and Military Friendly Employer
APPLICATIONS MAY BE FILED ONLINE AT:
www.cstx.gov/careers
recruiting@cstx.gov
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to include; Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, Paid Holidays, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick Leave, Paid Parental Leave, TMRS-Retirement (2:1 matching), Deferred Compensation, Term Life AD&D, Dependent Life, an Employee Health Clinic & Flex Benefits
01
Do you have a High School Diploma, 2 years of continuous military service, or do you possess a GED equivalent PLUS 12 hours of college credit?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you possess a valid Texas driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

03
In order to be eligible for this position, you must not currently be or have been within the last ten (10) years on court-ordered community supervision or probation for any criminal offense of the grade of a Class B misdemeanor or above. May not have been convicted of an offense of the grade of a Class B misdemeanor or above within the last ten (10) years. He or she may not have been, at any time, convicted of felony offense or any family violence offense.Do you meet this eligibility criteria?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Why does this position interest you? What prompts you to apply for this opportunity at this point in your career?
Required Question

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