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Entry Level Police Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

DU-COMM

Be Seen First

911 Dispatcher - Telecommunicator

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$32.50 - $40.67/hr

DU-COMM is a 24-hour, 7-day a week operation serving 45 Police/Fire/EMS agencies throughout DuPage County. DU-COMM is recruiting entry level or experienced applicants to join our team. No experience ...

DU-COMM

Be Seen First

911 Dispatcher - Telecommunicator

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$32.50 - $40.67/hr

DU-COMM is a 24-hour, 7-day a week operation serving 45 Police/Fire/EMS agencies throughout DuPage County. DU-COMM is recruiting entry level or experienced applicants to join our team. No experience ...

DU-COMM

911 Dispatcher - Telecommunicator

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$32.50 - $40.67/hr

DU-COMM is a 24-hour, 7-day a week operation serving 45 Police/Fire/EMS agencies throughout DuPage County. DU-COMM is recruiting entry level or experienced applicants to join our team. No experience ...

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All JobsPolice JobsEntry Level Police JobsEntry Level Police Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Police information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$64.1K

$106.8K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Chicago, IL is $64,110.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $76,900.00 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.

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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Police jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Police jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Entry Level Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,072 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

ENTRY LEVEL POLICE OFFICER

Village of Woodridge

Woodridge, IL

$84K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description The Woodridge Police Department is currently taking applications for testing to be eligible for Entry-Level Police Officer positions. Police Officer Application Instructions: Visit https://www.publicsafetytesting.com/departments/village-woodridge/entry-level-PO to select to participate in testing for the Entry Level Police Officer position for the Village of Woodridge. Carefully review the minimum requirements

All requirements must be met by the specified deadline date(s). Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will not be allowed to continue on in the testing process Schedule your testing. Testing is available in both In-Person and Online.

Gather and upload all required documents and complete your application/ personal profile. Examples of Duties Perform assigned duties alone or in the presence of a supervisor. Conducts or assists in investigations of suspicious circumstances, complaints, and/or criminal activity.

Direct traffic, make arrests, issue citations, warnings, etc. Maintain order of public gatherings, crowds, etc. Provide information concerning the location of streets, businesses, routes, Conducts record checks on persons utilizing drivers' licenses, fingerprints or other methods of identification in order to obtain positive identification and/or criminal records.

Checks the premises of businesses and residences in patrol area for signs of break-in or other irregularities in order to protect persons and property. Provides information to assist citizens in conforming to State statutes and Village ordinances. Provides assistance to victims (e.g., crime, accident, fire, etc.) to safe-guard their health and well-being

Maintain assigned equipment, squad car, and any assigned work space (e.g. laptop, desk top computers, phones, etc.) in a fundamentally clean and orderly manner. Completes formal police reports (e.g., preliminary case reports, incident reports, supplemental reports, etc.) to document facts and to provide an official record of an incident

Ability to present a positive image of the Police Department to the public. Typical Qualifications Must be at least 21 years of age and under the age 35 as of the application deadline, unless exempt from age limitations as provided by statute. Binocular vision corrective to 20/30.

No felony convictions. Valid driver's license. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and legally permitted to possess firearms in accordance with state and federal law.

Residency within 30 miles of corporate limits of the Village within six months of hire. Education Requirement: At time of filing an application for original appointment to the Police Department, applicant must have graduated from an accredited high school or hold a G.E.D Certificate. Attend virtual orientation session and pass all phases of testing process

Supplemental Information The online application and test scheduling information can be found at https://www.publicsafetytesting.com/departments/village-woodridge/entry-level-PO.

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