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Police Department Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Certified Police Officer

Portland, TN · On-site

$20.91 - $24.24/hr

The City of McMinnville Police Department is looking for initiative driven individuals with a passion for helping others. Our Certified Police Officer position serves the City to protect life and ...

Police Officer

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23.34/hr

The Johnson City Police Department, located in the 8th largest city in Tennessee, is home to approximately 180 sworn and civilian employees who are dedicated to protecting the community. Anyone ...

Police Officer

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$23.34/hr

The Johnson City Police Department, located in the 8th largest city in Tennessee, is home to approximately 180 sworn and civilian employees who are dedicated to protecting the community. Anyone ...

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Police Department information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$24

$48

How much do police department jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for police department in Tennessee is $24.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.26 and $28.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a police department do?

A police department is a law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public order, preventing and investigating crimes, and ensuring community safety. Officers within the department respond to emergencies, enforce laws, conduct traffic control, and work to build positive relationships with the public. Police departments also collaborate with other agencies to address issues such as drug trafficking, domestic violence, and missing persons. Their overall mission is to protect citizens and uphold the law while respecting individuals' rights.

What are different types of jobs in a police department?

The most recognized jobs in a police department are police officers and detectives, who help prevent, enforce, and solve crimes. However, there are also a variety of clerical, technical, and administrative positions that support the department’s daily operations. Evidence technicians and other forensic specialists, who are civilian employees, help police investigate crimes and gather and analyze evidence. Counselors and victim advocates help individuals affected by crimes deal with the trauma they have experienced. Clerks maintain records and receive visitors to the department. There are also high-level officer positions, including supervisors and chiefs, who manage and lead the department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a police department, and why are they important?

To thrive in a police department, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, criminal justice knowledge, and typically a relevant degree or police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement technologies, such as body cameras, report management systems, and radio communication tools, is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and sound judgment help officers communicate effectively and handle stressful situations. These skills ensure public safety, uphold the law, and foster community trust in a demanding environment.

What are some common challenges faced by new officers joining a police department, and how can they overcome them?

New officers in a police department often face challenges such as adapting to shift work, managing high-stress situations, and developing effective communication skills with the community and colleagues. Balancing the demands of the job with personal life can also be difficult, especially during the probationary period. To overcome these challenges, new officers are encouraged to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate actively in training sessions, and prioritize self-care to maintain resilience. Building strong relationships within the department and staying open to feedback can also help ease the transition and foster professional growth.

What is the difference between Police Department vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice DepartmentPolice Officer
CredentialsVaries by department, often requires police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentOrganization with multiple officers, administrative staff, and facilitiesPatrol, investigation, community engagement in various locations
Employer & IndustryGovernment agency at local, state, or federal levelIndividual law enforcement personnel within a police department
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding organizational structureJob duties and qualifications

The Police Department is the organization that employs police officers. While the department oversees operations, policies, and administration, a police officer is an individual responsible for law enforcement duties within that department. The department provides the environment and resources, whereas the officer performs the day-to-day tasks of maintaining public safety.

Can you work for the police department without being a police officer?

Yes, police departments employ various non-officer staff such as administrative personnel, crime scene investigators, dispatchers, and community service officers. These roles support law enforcement functions and often require specific training or certifications but do not involve sworn police duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Police Department jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Police Department jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Police Department job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Department job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,634 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Police Communications Officer - UT Police Department - UTK

Knoxville, TN • On-site

The University of Tennessee
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$20.84/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description


In a UTPD communications position you are in a role responsible for receiving incoming calls, logging information, and coordinating the dispatch of appropriate personnel or services to address emergency or non-emergency situations, acting as a crucial link between callers and field units by utilizing communication systems to ensure timely responses and efficient service delivery. This position requires strong multi-tasking abilities and excellent communication skills to prioritize calls and manage complex situations. You will manage a multi-line control system in high-pressure, emergency, and non-emergency situations.
Responsibilities
  • Effectively and efficiently process requests for service on the telephone from public, from outside entities such as other law enforcement agencies, or service providers, as well as from within UT Police Department.
  • Uses multi-channel radio system to transmit requests for service or emergency calls to personnel in the field and uses the radio to track activities of field personnel.
  • Clearly and accurately maintain the necessary forms, papers, and printouts of the Communication section.
  • May act as Communications Training Officers on their particular shift.
  • Monitor the University's Central Alarm system to ensure the security of the various properties connected to the system and respond appropriately to alarm activations according to their specific conditions.
  • Uses computer aided dispatch system and records management system to maintain records of calls for service and to review and retrieve records of past calls.
  • Uses local and national crime information databases to check vehicle registrations, drivers' licenses, criminal histories, and to enter information for regional and national distribution about stolen property, missing persons, suspect of crimes, etc.
  • Uses camera system to monitor cameras across campus.

Qualifications
Education:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent

Preferred Education/Experience:
  • Associate degree or bachelor's degree

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Good customer service skills.
  • Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills.
  • Demonstrate self-restraint in challenging and/or difficult situations.
  • Ability to work in a multi-cultural setting.
  • Demonstrate problem solving skills
  • Ability to be certified as a National Crime Information Center Operator (NCIC).
  • Ability to multi-task, use multiple phone lines and radio channels.
  • Active listening, service orientation, monitoring, decision making & communication skills.
  • Strong computer skills including data entry, ability to pass typing examination.
  • Must pass hearing screening and drug testing.

Work Location:
The University of Tennessee Police Department is located on UT Knoxville campus at 1101 Cumberland Avenue, Knoxville TN. The position operates completely onsite with no remote component.
Compensation and Benefits
  • UT market range: MR05, Hourly Rate $20.84
  • Annual Starting Salary: $43,347,20
  • Night Shift Incentive: $1.50 / $22.34 = $46,467.20
  • Retention Program: https://safety.utk.edu/police/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/06/Recruitment-Retention-Plan-2023.pdf
  • Find more information on the UT Market Range structure here
  • Find more information on UT Benefits here

Application Instructions
Complete or update an online application via Staff Positions | Human Resources (utk.edu).
A committee will review applications and conduct interviews for the position. Committee recommendations will be forwarded to the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police may conduct final interviews. The Chief of Police or designee will select the applicant for this position.
Currently this is a multiple open position and does not have an end date.
About The College/Department/Division
The University of Tennessee Police Department is at the heart of safety on campus. The UT Police Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to serve UT and the surrounding community.
The University of Tennessee Police Department operates three shifts for the Communications section:
First Shift: 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Second Shift: 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Third Shift: 11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.
Placement on shifts is determined by seniority and department needs. Staff may be required to work during extreme weather / hazardous conditions, regular days off, or holidays based on the needs of the department. All UT Police Staff work on some aspects of UT home football games regardless of the person's schedule.
General information about the UT Police Department is available at https://safety.utk.edu/police/ .
About Us
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!