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Entry Level Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Police Officer

Gresham, OR ยท 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 ...

$46.53 - $52.77/hr

Police The Richland Police Department is currently seeking Exceptional Entry Level Police Officer applicants. If you are currently a sworn Police Officer who works full-time for another police agency ...

Entry Level Police Officer

Vernon, CT ยท On-site

$88K - $102K/yr

Police Date Posted: 8/25/2021 Location: Police Department Town of Vernon Entry Police Officer NON CERTIFIED POLICE OFFICER APPLICANTS * Employment applications may be filed on-line at www.PoliceApp ...

Entry-Level Police Officer

CA ยท On-site

$105K - $149K/yr

... Police Department if you successfully passed one of the following exams within the last 12 months:1. POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB).2. National Testing Network (NTN) - Law ...

JOB SUMMARY The Police Officer position has the responsibility for general police work in the protection of life and property through the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Work involves general ...

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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:
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.

Entry Level Police Officer

City of Longview, WA

Longview, WA โ€ข On-site

$93K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Salary : $93,612.00 - $121,104.00 Annually
Location : 1351 Hudson, Longview, WA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-ELPO
Department: Longview Police
Opening Date: 01/06/2026
Job Description
Immediate opening! The Longview Police Department is in the process adding to our current entry-level Police Officer eligibility list.
The City of Longview requires entry-level candidates to first go through Public Safety Testing (PST) to complete a written exam and physical abilities test before continuing in the application process. Information about testing can be found on the PST website, Contact Public Safety Testing to get started today.
If you have not taken the PST written and physical ability tests, please do not submit an application at this time. Please only fill out and submit an application if you received a passing score from PST.
Your application will be used in the background process. Please complete each section carefully and thoroughly; including all work history and education. If you wish, you may also list voluntary positions as work history.
Patrol Officer - Training (first 6 months) $7,801 per month
Patrol Officer - Base Salary (after 6 months) $8,212- $10,092 per month
Essential Job Duties
This position provides first line duty in the protection of life and property of the citizens of the community including the enforcement of laws and ordinances, the preservation of the peace, apprehension of criminals, control of non-criminal conduct and the application of services to the community. Police protection is provided by the City 24 hours a day. Individual officers may be assigned to either an 8, 9 , 10 or 10.5 hour shifts, depending on shift assignment.
Responsible for assigned areas within the city for patrol by various means (i.e. patrol vehicle, bicycle, foot, etc.) for constant observation of all properties within the assigned area, work traffic on a selective basis and is available and responsible for answering all calls of any nature during assigned duty hours, (i.e. domestic, emergency, accident, etc.). Investigate crimes and complaints against persons & property such as murder, assault, manslaughter, robbery, rape, various sex crimes, burglary, theft and other reported crimes, and prepare and document appropriate reports and evidence. Perform public relations work in public safety, law enforcement, traffic accidents and crime prevention, and make routine checks of public dances, licensed liquor establishments and other public gatherings (i.e. sporting events, or other special community events). Render assistance and information to the public as well as emergency first aid or lifesaving methods to accident victims or persons unable to help themselves. Perform related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Selection is based upon civil service rules. Testing includes a written exam, physical agility test, and oral interview. Incumbents must have a High School Diploma or equivalent, must be 21 years of age (must be a minimum of 20 1/2 years of age to test), a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident, possess a valid driver's license, successfully complete the 720 hour basic training academy during the initial period of employment; possess a current State Department of L&I Basic First Aid Card or ability to obtain within 90 days, and be certified by the Washington State Toxicologist in operation of the breathalyzer or ability to obtain within 90 days.
Without the required documentation, applications may be rejected. Please view the supplemental questions for a list of required documents.
Ideal Candidate Information
Knowledge:
American system of government, the judicial process, federal, state and local laws and ordinances; law enforcement policies and procedures; principles and practices of criminal investigation; identification and modern police administration; use and care of firearms and defensive weapons.
Physical: The incumbent must be physically capable of driving a vehicle safely under various conditions, including emergencies; frequently lifting, carrying, dragging, pulling and pushing objects of varying weight and size; standing, walking and running for extended times over various distances and conditions, such as pursuing a running suspect through yards and over fences and walls; observe and recognize people, activity, vehicles, street signs and environmental conditions from a reasonable distance during day and night; not posing a direct threat to the health and safety of themselves or others, use only force objectively necessary to control situations and persons, including combative or fleeing suspects, able to operate a variety of firearms and weapons safely and proficiently. Occasional climbing stairs and/or ladders. Frequent bending/twisting at waist/knees/neck while performing duties. Occasional kneeling/crouching/crawling may be required in responding to emergency situations. Constant use of both hands and arms in reaching/handling/grasping/fingering while performing duties or while operating vehicle. Overhead reaching required. Constant use of sight, hearing and speech abilities necessary to perform essential tasks. Visual requirements include color and peripheral vision and hand/eye/foot coordination while operating vehicle.
Mental: Incumbents must be able to read and understand English language documents, legibly hand write accurate and grammatically correct reports; communicate effectively orally, in writing, and using the police radio; exercise good judgment in dealing with routine unusual situations; learn and comprehend factual information, policies, procedures and rules, and use good judgment and discretion in applying same to changing conditions in similar and non-similar situations; maintain composure and judgment during emergency or tense situations; confront problems and enforce laws; refuse to participate in or tolerate unethical behavior; not be subject to impeachment in court due to character, reputation, history of dishonesty or violation of law, including drug violations, act courteously toward others; take direction from supervisors; maintain good working relationships with other members of the Department and City; accept criticism and apply to performance, be dependable in meeting scheduled assignments; and work extended hours when required.
Working Environment: As a Police Officer, the incumbent is exposed to a wide range of negative and hostile physical and psychological factors. The incumbent frequently drives and walks in a wide variety of weather conditions which are not avoidable. In the performance of job duties, the incumbent must occasionally lift heavy objects and wrestle with combative criminals. Psychologically, the incumbent is exposed to verbal abuse and socially unacceptable behavior, and must at all times be mentally alert to potentially dangerous situations. The incumbent must be able to work evenings and holidays as assigned and respond to emergencies when necessary.
The City provides a comprehensive benefits package that is predominantly employer-paid for full family coverage, which includes medical, dental, vision, employee assistance program, long-term disability insurance, and employee basic life insurance with buy-up options for the employee, employee's spouse and dependents. All employees are required to participate in the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems programs and have the option to participate in a 457 deferred compensation program. Other benefits include generous paid leave such as vacation, holidays, and sick leave, and voluntary participation in a tax-deferred medical or dependent 125 plans.
Vacation: Upon hire 54 hours per year (2.25 hours per pay period), 2-4 yrs of service 96 hours per year (4 hours per pay period), 5-9 yrs of service 132 hours per year (5.50 hours per pay period), 10-14 years of service 156 hours per year (6.50 hours per pay period), 15-19 years of service 180 hours per year (7.50 per pay period), 20+ years of service 204 hours per year (8.50 per pay period).
Holidays: 96 hours of annual holiday leave bank
Sick Leave: Upon hire 96 hours, then 8 hours per month.
Education Premium: Employees with BA/BS Degree earn 4% per month.
Spanish Bilingual Premium: $75 per month
Equipment/Clothing Allowance: $350 per year
Longevity Pay: 2% at 5 years of service, 4% at 10 years of service, 6% at 15 years of service, 8% at 20+ years of service.
Medical Plan: 95% of medical premiums are paid by the City for employee's and dependents. A waiver of coverage into a VEBA account is provided at $750 per month for those with qualifying coverage.
Dental/Vision plans: 100% of dental and vision premiums are paid by the City for employee's and dependents.
Life Insurance: $50,000 of basic life insurance is provided for employees and paid for by the City.
Long Term Disability Insurance: A Long Term Disability policy is provided by the City for employees.
01
Have you already taken the Public Safety Testing written and physical agility tests?
  • Yes
  • No (Please do not continue and sign up for the testing first)

02
Are you at least 20 1/2 years old?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you a U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have a High School diploma or GED?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Verification of Ability to Perform Essential Job FunctionsAgreement and Certification of AbilitiesI hereby certify, under the penalty of perjury in the State of Washington, that I have read the job description for the position I have applied for and that I can perform the essential job duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Further, I acknowledge that accommodation requests due to disability, the medical verification regarding the disability and need for accommodation to perform the essential job duties, shall be presented to the City at the time a formal offer of employment is presented to me. I am aware that the information provided on this review verification form and any request and information submitted for accommodation due to disability, is considered as part of my application materials and should an investigation at any time disclose a misrepresentation or falsification of information provided, my application may be rejected, my name may be removed from consideration, or I may be discharged from my employment.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question