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Entry Level Police Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Police information

See Portland, OR salary details

$34.5K

$65.9K

$109.8K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in Portland, OR is $65,909.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $79,000.00 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 Portland, OR? The most popular types of Police jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Police jobs in Portland, OR? For Entry Level Police jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,909 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Entry Level 911 Communications Officer

City of Newberg Oregon

Newberg, OR

$5.0K - $6.3K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Newberg has vacancy for a 911 Dispatch Officer. This posting is open until filled. If a lateral Dispatch Officer is hired before the entry-level recruitment is completed, then the entry-level recruitment will be closed without hire as there is limited vacancies.

The recruitment will follow the following process, which can take a couple of months. You will not proceed to the next step until the previous step is completed. Submit Application Application Review Select Advantage (paid for by the City) NTN Testing (paid for by the City) Oral Board Interviews Dispatch Sit In Comprehensive Background Investigation Conditional Offer Psychological examination Medical Exam/Drug Screen GENERAL STATEMENT Operates communications equipment to receive and process incoming emergency 9-1-1 and non-emergency calls for assistance.

Performs dispatch duties and keep accurate records of communications received and transmitted for police, fire, and emergency medical response as well as other agencies. Often high intensity and fast moving work is involved. SUPERVISION RECEIVED Works under the close supervision of the Communications Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED None. FLSA STATUS Non-Exempt Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Operates radio and multi-line phone telephone control consoles receiving both emergency and non-emergency calls for police, fire and medical emergency assistance and other public requests for help. Effectively route other calls for service to other appropriate agencies.

Dispatches medical call in accordance with APCO procedures and gives pre-arrival instructions to callers awaiting arrival of responding units. Questions callers with professionalism and control to determine the nature of the problem being reported and gather required information. Accesses computer terminals to obtain, transmit and record information such as vehicle license numbers, driver's information, warrants and stolen vehicles information; enter and record information via computer terminal; maintain status of equipment to maintain control and record the activity of the dispatched units.

Dispatches calls to appropriate units or departments; maintain information on units' activities. Maintains contact with emergency apparatus and personnel using two-way radio, telephone, mobile dispatch terminals and computer aided dispatch system (CAD). Uses cameras to monitor individuals in holding cells for proper conduct, safety, and medical or other needs; immediately alerts an on-duty officer of any concerns.

Performs other duties as assigned by the Communications Manager and Police Chief. The duties listed above are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent. Bi-lingual ability in English and Spanish preferred and is incentivized. Experience in a multi-task, public service, and/or customer service environment preferred.

Special Requirements: Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, an extensive background check and the ability to obtain Oregon State Police CJIS clearance. Ability to possess and maintain Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) certification, APCO Emergency Medical Dispatch certification, and DPSST Telecommunications certification. Ability to work rotating shifts, and normal shifts that may be extended, work weekends, holidays, and work overtime as assigned; dependable and predictable employment is required.

Possess a commitment to comply with confidentiality requirements and agency policies Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Current knowledge of, or the ability to study and maintain familiarity with major roads, streets, industrial areas, public buildings and the general geographic locations and landmarks within jurisdictions of Dundee, Newberg, Hubbard, Donald, Aurora, and the Ambulance Service District. Basic to intermediate level of computer knowledge and experience. High level skills in listening and communication; speaking clearly and distinctly in an appropriate tone of voice.

Skill in the operation of the tools and equipment listed below. Documented ability of net typing speed of at least 45 words per minute. Ability to make independent decisions and exercise sound judgment consistent with appropriate policies, procedures, and techniques applicable to handling emergency situations.

Ability to communicate effectively verbally with a diverse range of contacts. Ability to follow and give verbal and written instructions. Ability to remain alert throughout an assigned shift, under varying levels of multiple simultaneous tasking and urgency.

Ability to be flexible and highly adaptable to change. Ability to remain calm, deal with constant interruptions, and handle stressful situations; politically astute. Ability to simultaneously answer telephone calls and dispatch emergency services units as well as listen to radio traffic.

Ability to maintain professionalism at all times, establish and maintain positive and cooperative working relationships with City staff and others contacted in the performance of duties. Supplemental Information TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED Communications Officers perform work duties at stationary dispatch stations which require the use of headsets, computer terminals and monitors, two-way radio and multi-line phone system, computer-aided systems; personal computer including word processing software; recording machine; standard office equipment, and a variety of communication devices. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations will be made to meet the needs of qualified individuals with limitations who can perform the essential functions of the job. Sit at a desk for extended periods of time; occasionally walk, stand, or stoop; occasionally lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects weighing up to 25 pounds; use tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity; work for sustained periods of time maintaining concentrated attention to detail. Must meet all physical standards as set forth by the State of Oregon DPSST to include visual acuity, hearing, speaking and basic physical health that provides the stamina to perform duties of the position for long periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT Work is performed at the Newberg-Dundee Police Department at stationary dispatch stations under rotating shifts providing 24/7 coverage over weekends and holidays. Work hours may include assigned overtime that may exceed an employee's regular work shift. Work location may include varying noise and lighting levels.

This position may require travel for meetings, training, and other responsibilities. This position description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. SELECTION GUIDELINES Formal application, rating of education and experience; written test, oral interview reference check and background investigation; drug screen; other job related tests may be required.