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Entry Level Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Town of East Hartford, CT

Police Officer

East Hartford, CT · On-site

$67K - $81K/yr

We are accepting applications for the position of Entry Level Police Officer. PLEASE APPLY VIA Motivation, enthusiasm, and commitment to the community are mandatory. An application and additional ...

Town of East Hartford

Police Officer

East Hartford, CT

$67K - $81K/yr

POSITION DEFINITION We are ONLY accepting applications for the position of Entry Level Police Officer. PLEASE APPLY VIA POLICEAPP.COM The East Hartford Police Department is on the lookout for a ...

City of La Vista

ENTRY LEVEL Police Officer

La Vista, NE · On-site

$35.41/hr

For planning purposes, tentative Entry Level Applicant testing dates (subject to change) are provided below: * Physical Agility Testing/Written Testing - August 1 * Police Panel Interviews - August ...

City of Gresham, OR

Entry Level Police Officer

Gresham, OR · On-site

$81K - $103K/yr

Watch this video about Gresham Police The City of Gresham Police Department is accepting applications for Entry Level Police Officer positions. We are a full-service police department with a variety ...

City of Auburn

Entry Level Police Officer

Auburn, WA

$108K - $129K/yr

The Auburn Police Department (APD) is seeking motivated, service-driven individuals to join our team as Entry Level Police Officers. This is an opportunity to serve a continuously growing community ...

City of Auburn, WA

Entry Level Police Officer

Auburn, WA · On-site

$108K - $129K/yr

The Auburn Police Department (APD) is seeking motivated, service-driven individuals to join our team as Entry Level Police Officers. This is an opportunity to serve a continuously growing community ...

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All JobsEntry Level Police Jobs

Entry Level Police information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level police in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 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.

Is 27 too late to be a cop?

Entry-level police positions typically require candidates to be at least 21 years old, with some agencies accepting applicants up to their late 30s or early 40s. Age limits vary by department, but being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a career in law enforcement, especially if you meet other requirements such as physical fitness and background checks.

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 lowest level of police officer?

The lowest level of police officer is typically a probationary or entry-level officer, often called a patrol officer or police officer trainee. These officers usually complete a police academy training program and may need to pass written exams, physical tests, and background checks before being sworn in. Advancement to higher ranks such as sergeant or detective generally requires additional experience and testing.

What is entry-level law enforcement?

Entry-level law enforcement refers to the initial position in police work, typically requiring a high school diploma or equivalent and passing a police academy training program. These roles involve basic policing duties such as patrolling, responding to calls, and enforcing laws, often with opportunities for advancement and additional certifications.

Can you become a cop with no experience?

Entry level police positions typically require applicants to meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete police academy training. Prior experience is not usually necessary, but candidates must demonstrate good character, physical fitness, and the ability to learn law enforcement skills. Certification and training are essential components of becoming a police officer.

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.

More about Entry Level Police jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Police jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Police job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs? The most popular types of Police jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Police jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Police jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Police jobs are:
Entry Level Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 42% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Police Recruit and Entry Level Police Officer

Police Recruit and Entry Level Police Officer

City of Waco, TX

Waco, TX • On-site

$32.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Attend training sessions to obtain Basic Peace Officer Certification.

  • Complete and pass written, oral, and skills proficiency examinations for required Peace Officer skills and knowledge.

  • Operate department vehicles to patrol the City, respond to emergency calls, enforce traffic laws, and transport individuals to appropriate facilities.

City Of Waco rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 663 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Salary: See Position Description
Location : Waco, TX
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026-01159
Department: POLICE
Division: POLICE SERV CHIEFS OFF
Opening Date: 05/18/2026
Closing Date: 7/9/2026 4:00 PM Central
Summary
Starting Pay: $32.8959 per hour
The Examination for Police Recruit and Entry Level Police Officer will be conducted on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 9:00 AM Central.
Summary:
To qualify as an applicant for Police Recruit and Entry Level Police Officer position with the City of Waco Police Department, the applicant must meet all requirements of the Waco Local Rules and Waco Meet & Confer Agreement:
  1. An applicant for a beginning position must serve a 12-month probationary period after being commissioned as a Peace Office.
  2. An applicant for a beginning position must take an eligibility exam.
  3. An applicant for a beginning position must successfully pass the TCOLE certification within 12 months of passing the eligibility exam.
  4. Applicants who currently hold a TCOLE Peace Officer License and have less than 2 years of continuous service as a commissioned Peace Officer are eligible to apply as an Entry Level Police Officer. Applicants who currently hold a TCOLE Peace Officer License will not be required to attend the Academy.
THE CITY OF WACO SEEKS:
Are you looking to serve your community, make a difference in people's lives, and build camaraderie with your coworkers? Waco Police Department is accepting applications for the next group of Police Recruits to join the WPD family. Apply with the WPD today!
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Required:
  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent
  • Fifteen (15) hours of college credit from an accredited institution with at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale,
  • OR Two (2) years of active-duty military experience from the US Armed Forces with an honorable discharge.
  • Must be a minimum of twenty (20) years of age to apply, must be 21 by the Police Academy completion date
  • Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License.
  • Must be a United States Citizen.
Additional Information:
  • Upon reviewing your application, you will receive an e-mail with additional requirements you MUST COMPLETE to go through the Police Recruit process.
  • Completed Background Packets must be submitted to the Waco Police Department Personnel Unit by 4:00 pm on Wednesday, July 15, 2026
  • Open the hyperlinks below to review the STUDY GUIDE and the Police Agility Course.
  • t

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Under close supervision, attends training from Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) and Waco Police Department (WPD) to obtain Basic Peace Officers License and certification.
PRIMARY DUTIES:
  • Attends classroom training sessions and takes notes required to obtain Basic Peace Officer Certification.
  • Completes and passes written, oral and skills proficiency examinations for a wide variety of required Peace Officer skills and knowledge and maintains required levels of proficiency.
  • Participates in physical conditioning training and testing and maintains required levels of physical fitness.
  • Maintains the integrity, professionalism, values and goals of the Police Department by assuring that all rules and regulations are followed, and that accountability and public trust are preserved.
  • Supports the relationship between the City of Waco and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with citizens, visitors and City staff; maintains confidentiality of work-related issues and City information.
  • Successful performance in and progression through Police Academy training.
  • Ability to testify in court proceedings.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned.
  • Operates department vehicles to patrol the City for criminal activity, suspicious behavior, and safety hazards;
    respond to emergency calls related to crimes in progress, traffic accidents, medical emergencies, and
    dangerous situations; enforce traffic laws; and transport individuals to appropriate facilities.

The City of Waco offers a complete benefits package for eligible employees including; health, dental, vision, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Flexible Spending Accounts, life insurance, long term and short term disability, retirement, deferred compensation plans, holidays, vacation, sick leave, credit union and savings bonds.
To learn more about the benefits offered, visit our Benefits page.
Why Work For Waco:
  • Meaningful and challenging work
  • Make a difference and improve communities
  • Competitive Salary and Benefits
    • Full Range of Benefits, including Health, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life Insurance
    • Mandatory TMRS Retirement Plan with a 2:1 City Match
    • Education Assistance Program
    • Paid Parental Leave
    • Employee Assistance
    • Longevity Pay
    • And More!
  • Chance to do work you are passionate about
  • Desire to give back

01
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a High School Diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you a United States Citizen?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have at least two years of active-duty military experience from the US Armed Forces with an honorable discharge or two years of continuous experience as a paid full-time police officer?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have 15 credit hours of college from an accredited college with at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you currently hold a TCOLE Peace Officer Certification?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Please provide your Date of Birth in the following format (MM/DD/YYYY)
08
Gender
  • Male
  • Female
  • Other/Unidentified

09
Race, please check one:
  • American Indian / Alaskan Native
  • Asian
  • Black / African American
  • Hispanic
  • Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
  • Other / Unknown
  • Two or more Races
  • White

10
How did you hear about us?
  • City of Waco
  • City of Waco Website
  • Facebook
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Other Social Media
  • Texas Municipal League

11
Were you referred by a City of Waco Employee? If so, please list the employee's full name below. PLEASE ONLY LIST ONE CITY OF WACO EMPLOYEE NAME.
Required Question

Apply