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Entry Level Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Entry Level Police information

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$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do entry level police jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 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.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Police job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Entry Level Police Officer

City of College Station

College Station, TX

$31.45/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


City Of College Station rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 643 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

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. 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.)

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. Patrol an assigned area by car, motorcycle, bicycle, or on foot to discourage crime, maintaining responsibility and accountability for assigned geographic area. 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.

Build and maintain effective partnerships with community groups and members and respond to requests and inquiries from citizens concerning laws and City ordinances. Prepare and submit reports on crimes and activities. Maintain required training proficiencies.

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


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