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Entry Level Police Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

An entry level role that typically requires little to no prior knowledge or experience, work is ... Police Academy and possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid POST Certification from the ...

An entry level role that typically requires little to no prior knowledge or experience, work is ... Police Academy and possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid POST Certification from the ...

An entry level role that typically requires little to no prior knowledge or experience, work is ... Police Academy and possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid POST Certification from the ...

An entry level role that typically requires little to no prior knowledge or experience, work is ... Police Academy and possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid POST Certification from the ...

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Entry Level Police information

See Boston, MA salary details

$35.4K

$67.7K

$112.8K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Boston, MA is $67,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $81,200.00 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.

Can I become an entry level police officer without experience?

Entry level police officers typically do not need prior law enforcement experience, as agencies provide training through police academies. Candidates usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and meet physical and written exam requirements. Some positions may prefer or require related skills or certifications, but experience is generally not mandatory for entry-level roles.

What is an entry level police officer?

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 position in entry level police?

The lowest position in entry-level police is typically that of a police officer or patrol officer. This role involves patrolling neighborhoods, responding to calls, and enforcing laws, often serving as the starting point in a law enforcement career after completing required training and academy programs.

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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Police jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Boston, MA? For Entry Level Police jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,709 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

2026 Duxbury Police Lieutenant Sole AC w/E&E

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Boston, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Location : Statewide, MA
Job Type: Not Applicable
Job Number: 26DuxburyPLt_EE
Department: Duxbury Police Department
Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Duxbury Police Lieutenant Sole Assessment Center with E&E
If you currently have a Civil Service Online Account DO NOT create a new account to apply for this exam.
Utilize the Government Jobs Help & Support to access your account. Online Employment Application Guide | Massachusetts Civil Service Applications
Candidates with multiple accounts may cause delays with properly recording your application and notifications from civil service such as notices to appear, or job opportunities. If you have questions, please email civilservice@mass.gov
This examination is being administered, through a delegation agreement, by the appointing authority for the purpose of establishing an eligible list through the Human Resources Division (HRD) from which a Police Lieutenant vacancy will be filled. Candidates must successfully complete and pass this examination to be eligible for placement on the resulting eligible list.
Examination Date: September 26, 2026
Application Period Begins: August 14, 2026
Application Deadline: September 4, 2026
Examination Location: Duxbury Senior Center
Examination Information
Eligibility: To be eligible for this examination you must: (1) be an employee in the police department for which the examination is given with permanent civil service status in the specified eligible title(s) by the date of the examination; and (2) have served in the force at least one year since you were appointed and performed the job duties of the eligible title(s)*. A combination of temporary and permanent service from a certification can be applied towards meeting this one year requirement. Time spent working in the title of Police Lieutenant will not interrupt the service period in your permanent position.
*If the eligible title has been lowered to the entry level rank, you must have served in the force at least one year or three years depending on the participating municipality since you were appointed and performed the job duties. Police Officers filing for this examination must have one year of permanent experience after completion of their police academy course. Service as a Student Officer, before successful completion of an approved academy, does not count towards meeting the eligibility requirement.
Note: Pursuant to the provisions of Massachusetts General Law (MGL) 31 § 59, if less than two applications are received from eligible candidates, this examination will be postponed. If the examination's eligible title has been lowered to the entry level rank, the examination will go forward with less than two eligible candidates submit applications.
Eligible List: Individuals placed on the resulting eligible list shall be eligible for certification from such list for such period as the administrator shall determine, but in any event not to exceed two years, unless otherwise outlined in Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 31, § 25 or the Human Resources Division (HRD) revocation policy.
Examination Weights: The Sole Assessment Center will be 80% and the Experience & Education (E&E) will be 20% of the final score.
Eligible Title(s): Police Sergeant
Job Description
For a complete job description and list of duties and responsibilities, please contact the Duxbury Police Department.
Application: All applications and examination processing fees must be received by the application deadline. You will receive two confirmation emails when you have completed the process: one email confirming your application has been received, and one email confirming your payment has been received. Your application is not complete until you have received both confirmation emails. Candidates who have been approved for an examination fee voucher may record redeeming the voucher on the application. If you have not submitted payment or redemption of an examination voucher of the examination processing fee on or before the application deadline, your application will not be accepted.
Assessment Center: The assessment center will be conducted by a third-party vendor chosen by your municipality.
Experience & Education (E&E): All candidates must complete the Duxbury Police Lieutenant E&E Claim application online. This is a separate application. Submitting an E&E claim in any way other than through the online claim process will result in a failed examination component. Instructions and a link to the E&E claim will be emailed to you prior to the Assessment Center administration date. A confirmation email will be sent upon successful submission of an E&E Claim application.
Statutory Preference Points: Upon submission of written proof, two points will be added to the passing score of qualified Veterans and Disabled Veterans or individuals who have 25 years of service as a member of a regular police or police force and have passed an examination for promotional appointment in such force. If you are qualified for both the Veteran's Preference and the Promotional Preference for 25 years of service, please be advised that two points are the maximum allowable number of points to be added to your passing, overall (general average) examination score. To claim the Promotional Preference for 25 years of service, candidates must claim this preference in the application and either attach the form to the application or email it to To claim veterans preference, claim veteran status in the application and attach your DD214 to the application or email it to For more information on veteran status refer to the section on our website.
During the HRD review process or during the life of the applicable eligible list(s), candidates must make original supporting documentation available should the issue of authenticity arise with any submitted document copies.
Makeup Examination: All military personnel who, in connection with current service, have military orders that indicate their unavailability due to military service on the examination date, must file an application and request a makeup examination in writing to the delegation administrator or their designee. With the exception of current military personnel, as described above, no candidate has a right to a makeup examination due to personal or professional conflicts on the testing date. Candidates are advised to consider this before applying for the examination. If you file an examination application by the application deadline but are unable to appear for the examination on the examination date due to an emergency or unanticipated hardship, you may request a makeup examination by filing a written request with verifiable documentation to the delegation administrator or their designee. The delegation administrator reserves the right to approve or deny your request. Please reach out to them for further information.
Reasonable Accommodations: If you need reasonable accommodations due to a documented impairment, or medical condition, you must make a request with the delegation administrator or their designee. All requests will be reviewed and approved by the delegation administrator or their designee.
Delegation Administrator or Designee: Chief Michael Carbone (mcarbone@duxbury-ma.gov)
Updating Information: Candidates are responsible for maintaining accurate contact information. Failure to keep your records current may jeopardize opportunities for promotion. For information on how to update your information, click on
Identification at the Examination Site: At the examination site, candidates must present a current and valid government issued photo identification with signature (e.g., driver's license, passport, military ID). Candidates will not be allowed to take the examination without valid identification.
Private School or Service: HRD does not recommend or endorse any private school, service, or publisher offering preparation and/or publications for examinations and is not responsible for their advertising claims.
Supplemental Information
Women, minorities, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
For more information or inquiries about this and other civil service examinations, visit or email the Civil Service Unit at
The Civil Service Unit's hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:45am - 5:00pm, except holidays. Inquiries may also be made to the Civil Service Unit during these hours at the following numbers:
Boston area: (617) 878-9895 or (617) 878-9700
Toll-Free Within Massachusetts: 1-800-392-6178
TTY Number: (617) 878-9762
There is no Benefit Code