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Police Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Police Officer Exam Tutor

Huntsville, AL · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Police Officer Exam tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

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All JobsPolice JobsPolice Jobs in Decatur, AL

Police information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$21.5K

$54.2K

$75.1K

How much do police jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for police in Decatur, AL is $54,224.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,300.00 and $58,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of criminal law, investigative procedures, and physical fitness, typically acquired through police academy training and, in many cases, a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, body cameras, and radio communication systems is essential for effective fieldwork. Excellent judgment, strong communication, and resilience are vital soft skills for handling high-stress situations and interacting with diverse communities. These skills and qualities are crucial for upholding public safety, enforcing laws fairly, and building community trust.

What are some of the typical challenges police officers face during their daily shifts?

Police officers frequently encounter unpredictable situations that require quick thinking and adaptability, such as responding to emergency calls, handling disputes, or managing high-stress incidents. Balancing community engagement with enforcing laws can also be challenging, as officers must build trust while maintaining authority. Additionally, officers often work in shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays, which can impact work-life balance. Despite these challenges, strong teamwork, ongoing training, and support from colleagues help officers navigate the complexities of the role.

Is it hard to get a police job?

Getting a police job can be competitive and typically requires meeting specific requirements such as a minimum age, a clean background check, physical fitness, and passing written and psychological exams. Candidates often need to complete police academy training and may face a rigorous selection process, including interviews and background investigations.

Is 27 too late to become a police officer?

Police departments often accept applicants in their late 20s, and 27 is generally not considered too late to start a career as a police officer. Many agencies require candidates to meet age and background requirements, and prior life experience can be an asset in law enforcement roles.

What is the difference between Police vs Security Guard?

AspectPoliceSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, police academy certification, sometimes college degreeSecurity guard training, certification varies by state, sometimes no formal education required
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, public spaces, crime scenes, emergency situationsPrivate properties, malls, events, corporate buildings
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, law enforcementPrivate security companies, businesses

Police officers and security guards both focus on safety and security, but police have law enforcement authority, undergo extensive training, and handle criminal investigations. Security guards primarily monitor property, prevent theft, and provide access control. The roles differ mainly in authority, training, and work environment.

What do police officers do?

Police officers are responsible for enforcing laws and meeting citation quotas in their jurisdiction. As a police officer, you patrol the community, investigate crime, make arrests, and issue citations for parking, traffic, and other minor violations. Your main duty is maintaining public order and protecting property. You may work independently or with a partner, and you complete your patrols in a car, on foot, by bicycle, or even on horseback. You have training in weapons use in case of any situation in which you fear for your safety.

More about Police jobs
What are popular job titles related to Police jobs in Decatur, AL? For Police jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Police jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Police job openings:
Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,224 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Police Sergeant

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University

Normal, AL • On-site

$47K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Salary: $47,300.00 - $60,200.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300770
Department: Public Safety
Opening Date: 03/27/2026
Description
Summary:
Supervises Police Officers and other department employees in enforcement of local, state, and federal laws and in provision of personal, real property, and equipment security throughout campus. Supervises investigation and documentation of crimes and incidents. Documents and presents evidence; provides legal testimony.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Supervises police officers in performance of regularly assigned patrols and incident investigations; prepares shift notices and assignments; conducts prehire evaluations of prospective police officer candidates; conducts performance evaluations; makes recommendations in matters concerning employee discipline and retention.
  • Reviews police documentation including incident and accident reports and daily logs for accuracy and compliance with criminal, motor vehicle, and traffic laws and with university regulations.
  • Assists shift commander in establishing procedures; makes recommendations regarding improvements or changes in department operations.
  • Conducts accident and crime investigations and prepares detailed reports, including State Motor Vehicle Accident Reports and State Uniform Incident Reports.
  • Provides public assistance, including lockout services, escorts, first aid, and vehicle jump-starts.
  • Processes evidence, prepares court cases, and provides legal testimony.
  • Conducts inspections of police personnel and equipment; issues and accounts for police equipment.
  • Represents the department at community and business meetings.
  • Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Graduation from an accredited law enforcement academy
  • At least one ( 1 ) year of experience that is directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified
  • State of Alabama Certified Law Enforcement Officer, or eligibility for Certification by waiver.

Supplemental Information
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of laws, regulations, methods, and techniques in area of specialty.
  • Knowledge of organizational structure, workflow, and operating procedures.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Skill in completing accident and criminal investigations.
  • Skill in providing protection services to individuals on campus.
  • Ability to provide legal depositions and testimony.
  • Ability to gather and organize legal evidence.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Ability to perform inspections and/or approve installations.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Have you graduated from an accredited law enforcement academy?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have at least one (1) years of experience that is directly related to the essential duties and responsibilities specified?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you a State of Alabama Certified Law Enforcement Officer, or eligibility for Certification by waiver?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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