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Police Patrol Officer 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 Officer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do police patrol officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for police patrol officer 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 is a police patrol officer?

Police Patrol Officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public safety, preventing crime, and enforcing laws within a designated area or beat. They patrol neighborhoods, respond to emergency and non-emergency calls, conduct traffic stops, and investigate suspicious activities. In addition to enforcing laws, patrol officers often build relationships with community members, assist those in need, and provide a visible presence to deter criminal activity. Their role is crucial in ensuring the safety and security of the public.

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

To thrive as a Police Patrol Officer, you need a strong understanding of law enforcement procedures, criminal law, and physical fitness, often supported by completion of a police academy and necessary state certification. Familiarity with law enforcement technology such as body cameras, radio communication systems, and police databases is typically required. Excellent judgment, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring public safety, effective law enforcement, and constructive community interactions.

What are some common challenges police patrol officers face during their daily shifts?

Police patrol officers frequently encounter unpredictable situations, ranging from routine traffic stops to responding to emergencies or disputes. Balancing community engagement with enforcement duties can be challenging, as officers must remain vigilant and exercise sound judgment under pressure. Additionally, shift work—including nights, weekends, and holidays—can impact work-life balance. Strong communication skills and ongoing training help officers manage these challenges effectively and maintain public trust.

What is the difference between Police Patrol Officer vs Police Detective?

AspectPolice Patrol OfficerPolice Detective
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy, additional investigative training
Work EnvironmentPatrols neighborhoods, responds to emergencies, enforces lawsInvestigates crimes, gathers evidence, interviews witnesses
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies, municipal police departmentsLaw enforcement agencies, detective bureaus

Police Patrol Officers primarily patrol neighborhoods, respond to emergencies, and enforce laws, requiring police academy training. Police Detectives focus on investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and solving cases, often with additional investigative training. Both roles are essential in law enforcement but differ in daily duties and focus areas.

What cities are hiring for Police Patrol Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Police Patrol Officer job openings:

What states have the most Police Patrol Officer jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Police Patrol Officer jobs?

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

Police Patrol Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Patrol Officer 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 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Police Patrol Officer

PUBLIC SAFETY TESTING

Riverside, IL • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 4 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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