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Police Patrol Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sidney Police Department

Police Patrol Officer

Sidney, MT · On-site

$150/day

POLICE PATROL OFFICER NEXT TESTING DATE: October 1, 2026 LOCATION: RICHLAND COUNTY LAW & JUSTICE CENTER 300 12TH AVE. NW SIDNEY, MONTANA 59270 Prior law enforcement experience? LATERAL ENTRY STARTS ...

Sidney Police Department

Police Patrol Officer

Sidney, MT · On-site

$32.67 - $36.02/hr

POLICE PATROL OFFICER NEXT TESTING DATE: October 1, 2026LOCATION: RICHLAND COUNTY LAW & JUSTICE CENTER300 12TH AVE. NWSIDNEY, MONTANA 59270 Prior law enforcement experience?LATERAL ENTRY STARTS AT ...

City of Erlanger

Police Patrol Officer

Erlanger, KY · On-site

None POSITION SUMMARY The Patrol Officer meets the definition of Police officer found in KRS 61.315(1). The Patrol Officer is required to have Peace Officer Professional Standards and Certification.

City of Maitland

POLICE PATROL OFFICER

Maitland, FL · On-site

$28.76 - $83/hr

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER Performs police patrol duties to enforce the laws of the State, County and City to protect lives and property and to detect, prevent and stop criminal activity primarily ...

City of Decatur

Lateral Police Patrol Officer

Decatur, IL · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

SALARY Lateral police patrol officers may be paid starting wages equivalent to their previous law enforcement experience, but not to exceed that of a DPD Officer with three years on the job. All ...

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Police Patrol information

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$12

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$37

How much do police patrol jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for police patrol in the United States is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police patrol?

Police patrol officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public safety by patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergencies, enforcing laws, and preventing crime. They often serve as the first responders to incidents and provide assistance to the community. Their duties include conducting traffic stops, investigating suspicious activities, and writing reports. Patrol officers also work to build positive relationships with the communities they serve and help deter criminal activity through their visible presence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police patrol officer?

To thrive as a Police Patrol Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement procedures, criminal law, and public safety, generally supported by police academy training and state certification. Familiarity with law enforcement technology such as body cameras, radio communication systems, and incident reporting software is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help officers diffuse situations and build community trust. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws fairly, and responding effectively to emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by police patrol officers during their shifts?

Police patrol officers often encounter unpredictable situations, ranging from routine traffic stops to emergency calls that require quick decision-making. One of the main challenges is managing high-stress scenarios while maintaining professionalism and adhering to departmental protocols. Officers also need to build trust within the community, which involves strong communication skills and cultural awareness. Additionally, balancing paperwork, report writing, and court appearances with active patrolling can be demanding. Teamwork is crucial, as officers frequently coordinate with fellow patrol members, detectives, and other emergency responders.

What is the difference between Police Patrol vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice PatrolPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy trainingHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentPatrol vehicles, streets, neighborhoodsStations, community events, various law enforcement settings
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, municipal policeLaw enforcement agencies, municipal police
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Patrol refers to officers actively patrolling neighborhoods and streets to maintain safety, while Police Officer is a broader term encompassing all law enforcement personnel, including patrol officers, detectives, and others. Patrol is a specific duty within the role of a Police Officer, focusing on visible presence and community safety.

What police patrol job gets paid the most?

The highest-paid police patrol jobs are typically in federal agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), or U.S. Marshals, which often offer higher salaries and additional benefits. Within local departments, specialized units like SWAT teams or detective roles may also earn higher pay compared to standard patrol officers, especially with experience and advanced training. Salary levels depend on location, experience, and rank, with supervisory or command positions generally earning the most.

What cities are hiring for Police Patrol jobs?

Cities with the most Police Patrol job openings:

What states have the most Police Patrol jobs?

States with the most job openings for Police Patrol jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Police Patrol jobs?

For Police Patrol jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Police Patrol jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Patrol job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,217 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Police Patrol Officer

Riverside, IL • On-site

PUBLIC SAFETY TESTING
Public Safety Statistics Centers and Offices • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about PUBLIC SAFETY TESTINGexternal

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Riverside Police Department - Police Patrol Officer

Last updated on September 02, 2026
PST Partner Agency since August 25, 2026

Proof of Citizenship or legal eligibility to work in the US Read Description None

Illinois POWER card Power Cards will be accepted up to one year prior to the application deadline.
Read More None

Law Enforcement and/or Corrections Certifications/licenses Read Description None

Riverside Police Department - Police Patrol Officer Requirements

Category

Requirement

Required at time of...

Test

Hire

Written Examination Yes, required

LEO/CO Physical Ability Test (PAT) Yes, required as described below. Power Cards will be accepted up to one year prior to the application deadline.

PST Personal History Statement Required at time of testing deadline listed in the profile.

Minimum Age 21

Maximum Age 35

High School Grad/ GED Yes

Driver's License Required Yes

Felony Conviction(s) as an Adult None.

Felony Conviction(s) as a Juvenile Not normally, but can be reviewed depending on circumstance.

Ability to Read, Speak & Write the English Language Yes

Vision Requirements Correctable to 20/20

College Requirement No

Veterans Preference Points Any candidate for original appointment to the police department that is entitled to preference points pursuant to Article 8, Section 2 shall be entitled to the following additional points upon written request of the application. A maximum of 5 points may be claimed. Additional details will be provided upon the opening of the ten (10) day period to claim preference (at the time of the posting of the Initial Eligibility List).

Military preference – 5 points

Contact Information

Riverside Police Department - Police Patrol Officer

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