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Police Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Lateral Police Officer

Reno, NV · On-site

$72K - $104K/yr

Police Opening Date: 07/01/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Reno Police Department is Hiring Now! The City of Reno is seeking current law enforcement officers looking to join the Reno Police ...

The Reno Police Department is looking to fill 20+ positions at the upcoming Summer 2026 Academy, anticipated to begin in July 2026. Civil Service will begin reviewing applications as they are ...

Police Opening Date: 07/01/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Reno Police Department is Hiring Now! **Summer 2026 Academy Update** The Reno Police Department is looking to fill 20+ positions ...

Description Reno Police Department is Hiring Now. The City of Reno is seeking current law enforcement officers looking to join the Reno Police Department team. This open competitive opportunity is ...

Tribal Police Officer

Reno, NV · On-site

$27.07 - $41.08/hr

Join the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony as a Full-Time Tribal Police Officer, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real difference in your community. This onsite position ...

Tribal Police Officer

Reno, NV · On-site

$27.07 - $41.08/hr

Join the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony as a Full-Time Tribal Police Officer, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a real difference in your community. This onsite position ...

Police Officer - POST

Sparks, NV · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Police Division: Police Services Opening Date: 09/08/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Job Information Are you looking for a meaningful career that has a positive impact on the community ? If you ...

Police Division: Police Services Opening Date: 09/08/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Job Information Are you looking for a meaningful career that has a positive impact on the community ? If you ...

Police applicants are required to complete a series of exams as part of the Civil Service Examination process. There are two different exams in the process: a physical abilities exam, and a written ...

Police Officer - Lateral

Truckee, CA · On-site

$108K - $146K/yr

Police Division: Patrol Opening Date: 03/10/2026 Closing Date: Continuous ABOUT THE POSITION The Police Officer position with the Town of Truckee offers an opportunity to serve and protect one of ...

Police Officer Exam Tutor

Reno, NV · 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 ...

Police applicants are required to complete a series of exams as part of the Civil Service Examination process. There are two different exams in the process: a physical abilities exam, and a written ...

ABOUT THE POSITION The Police Officer position with the Town of Truckee offers an opportunity to serve and protect one of California's most vibrant mountain communities. Located in the Sierra Nevada ...

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Showing results 1-20

Police information

See Reno, NV salary details

$23.9K

$60.5K

$83.8K

How much do police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for police in Reno, NV is $60,451.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $64,800.00 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.

What police position pays the most?

The highest-paying police positions are typically police chiefs or commissioners, who oversee entire departments and have extensive experience and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require advanced education, such as a master's degree, and many years of law enforcement experience. Salaries can vary widely depending on the size of the department and location but generally exceed $100,000 annually.

What does 4 fingers up mean for cops?

In law enforcement, holding up four fingers can symbolize the acknowledgment of four officers lost in the line of duty or represent a specific unit or rank depending on the department's traditions. It is often used as a sign of respect, remembrance, or solidarity among officers. The meaning can vary based on context and department culture.

How hard is it to get hired as a cop?

Getting hired as a police officer typically involves meeting minimum requirements such as age, education, and background checks, passing physical and written exams, and completing police academy training. The hiring process can be competitive and may take several months due to multiple interview stages and background investigations.

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.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Police departments often accept applicants up to their late 30s or early 40s, depending on the agency's age requirements and physical fitness standards. Age is less of a barrier if candidates meet the qualifications, pass background checks, and complete required training such as police academy. Many officers start their careers later in life and bring valuable experience to the role.

What are police officers?

Police officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, preventing crime, and protecting citizens and property. They respond to emergencies, investigate suspicious activities, and conduct patrols within their assigned areas. Police officers also work closely with communities to build trust and ensure safety, while upholding the law and safeguarding individual rights.
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Reno, NV? The most popular types of Police jobs in Reno, NV are:
What are popular job titles related to Police jobs in Reno, NV? For Police jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Police jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Police jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Police jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Police job openings:
Infographic showing various Police job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,451 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
School Police Recruit

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Washoe County School District rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

442nd of 577 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Education Support Professionals - ESP/Classified - Other
Job Number 2000017849
Start Date
Open Date 07/08/2026
Closing Date 12/31/2026
Attachments
School Police Recruit
SCHOOL POLICE RECRUIT
The position is intended for applicants who have not yet completed a Police Academy program. Candidates selected for this role must successfully complete a POST-certified Police Academy as a condition of employment.
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION
Under immediate supervision of the Chief of School Police or designee, receives instruction in assigned curriculum of the police approved law enforcement academy and participates in training exercises designed to simulate situations encountered by a police officer. The instruction and training is provided in a formal classroom setting and in practical field exercises.
Incumbents of this civilian, non-commissioned class are assigned to the Academy for the purpose of receiving instruction and training in the duties and responsibilities of a police officer. A School Police Recruit is restricted from performing in the capacity of a WCSD School Police Officer.
Upon successful completion of the academy School Police Recruits are sworn in and promoted to School Police Officer.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Law Enforcement Training and Certification
  • Participate in all required Law Enforcement Academy training and successfully pass examinations and proficiency assessments.
  • Participate in firearms training and obtain a passing qualification score for each assigned firearm.
  • Participate in Force-on-Force training and obtain a passing score on the final proficiency test.
  • Complete First Aid and CPR training and obtain a passing score on the final written examination.
  • Participate in Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) training and obtain a passing score on the final proficiency test.
  • Administer basic first aid and CPR and maintain required certifications.

Law Enforcement Knowledge and Practice
  • Learn and apply State and Federal laws related to arrest, search and seizure, traffic enforcement, and narcotics investigations.
  • Learn and apply the appropriate use-of-force continuum in a variety of situations.
  • Learn defensive tactics to protect self and others during physical confrontations.
  • Learn weapon handling procedures and associated safety practices.

Communication and Interpersonal Effectiveness
  • Communicate effectively with students, staff, parents, community members, and law enforcement personnel using tact, professionalism, sound judgment, and interpersonal skills.
  • Learn, memorize, and correctly utilize law enforcement radio codes and communication protocols.
  • Give and follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Write clear, concise, and grammatically correct reports, correspondence, and other documentation.

Critical Thinking and Decision-Making
  • Evaluate situations and determine appropriate courses of action consistent with department policies and procedures.
  • Anticipate potential issues and implement effective response strategies.
  • Recognize safety hazards and exercise caution in all activities.
  • Observe, assimilate, and accurately recall facts, details, and events.
  • Read and interpret complex documents and apply information to law enforcement activities.
  • Collect, organize, and analyze information to support investigations and police operations.

Equipment and Vehicle Operation
  • Learn to safely operate a WCSD School Police vehicle in both routine and emergency situations.
  • Operate law enforcement equipment, including radios, computer systems, and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) systems.

Organization and Work Management
  • Organize, prioritize, and complete assigned work in a timely and effective manner.

QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education and experience that could likely provide the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way to obtain knowledge and skills would be:
Education: Equivalent to a high school diploma.
Must be able to successfully complete:
  • Written Civil Service Exam
  • Interview(s)

Must be able to successfully obtain:
  • Nevada POST Certified Law Enforcement Academy

Must be able to successfully pass:
  • Nevada POST Physical Fitness Test
  • Comprehensive Background Investigation
  • Polygraph Examination/CVSA Examination
  • Medical Physical Examination -
    • (Obtain) Fitness for Duty
  • Phycological Examination
  • Field Training Officer (FTO) Program

COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE OF JOB DUTIES
Knowledge of:
  • Proper English grammar, punctuation, and
  • Read and comprehend laws, regulations, policies, and

Skill:
  • Exercise emotional
  • Understand and execute oral and written
  • Read and follow street
  • Perform basic mathematical
  • Establish and maintain effective work relationships with departmental personnel, other agencies, the public, and others contacted in the course of
  • Observe situations analytically and
  • Record observations clearly and
  • Develop skills to enforce laws, ordinances, and regulations with firmness, tact, and impartiality.
  • Develop skills in the use and care of firearms and meet minimum testing
  • Develop additional skills in the operation of motor vehicles in routine and emergency situations and
  • Meet the physical requirements to perform the assigned duties safely and effectively.

Abilities:
  • Accurately observe and recall
  • Quickly assess situations and make logical
  • Communicate effectively, both orally and in
  • Deal effectively and courteously with
  • React quickly and calmly in
  • Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of
  • Work in a team-based environment to achieve common
  • Pass all examinations required during the Law Enforcement Academy and meet Nevada Commission on P.O.S.T.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
Work Environment
  • Exposure to weather: Frequently
  • Exposure to loud noises: Continuously
  • Working in confined spaces: Rarely
  • Working at heights: Rarely
  • Working with hazardous materials: Rarely

Physical Demands
  • Lifting objects up to 25 lbs.: Frequently; Rarely Lifting objects over 25lbs
  • Standing/Walking: Occasionally
  • Bending/Stooping: Occasionally
  • Reaching: Occasionally
  • Pushing/pulling objects: Occasionally
  • Climbing stairs or ladders: Occasionally
  • Fine motor skills: Rarely

Definitions:
  • Never: The activity or condition does not occur.
  • Rarely: The activity or condition occurs less than 10% of the time.
  • Occasionally: The activity or condition occurs 10-30% of the time.
  • Frequently: The activity or condition occurs 30-60% of the time.
  • Continuously: The activity or condition occurs more than 60% of the time.

THIS JOB SPECIFICATION SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO IMPLY THAT THESE REQUIREMENTS ARE THE EXCLUSIVE STANDARDS OF THE POSITION. INCUMBENTS MAY BE REQUIRED TO FOLLOW ANY OTHER INSTRUCTIONS, AND TO PERFORM ANY OTHER RELATED DUTIES AS MAY BE REQUIRED BY THEIR SUPERVISOR.
The Washoe County School District is committed to providing a safe and respectful learning and working environment for all students, staff, and visitors. The District prohibits bullying, cyber-bullying, harassment, sexual harassment, and/or discrimination based on an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, veterans or military status, marital status, disability or the presence of any sensory, physical or mental handicap in any of its educational programs/activities and employment, or in any program or activity conducted or funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The District prohibits discrimination against any youth group listed in Title 36, as a patriotic society, (i.e., Boy Scouts of America) from access to public school facilities use.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Washoe County School District is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. The Washoe County School District is committed to providing all applicants and employees equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, military status, or other characteristics protected by applicable law. Here at Washoe County School District, we are a diverse group of people who honor the differences that drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our students and employees. We believe that through a culture of inclusivity, we have the power to reflect on the community we serve.
Internal Job Number 2026/27
Salary
Education Support Professional Salary Schedule
School Police Recruit Grade 21 Schedule A $21.55 Schedule B $25.91
Salaries are subject to adjustment and may increase and decrease each fiscal year. New employees hired by Washoe County School District are normally placed on the entry step of the grade of the position. View the salary schedules here.
Range/Grade 21
Additional Job Information
Benefit packages are available for all employees, eligible employees who are regularly scheduled to work 27.5 hours per week or more receive full benefits of the District which include but are not limited to;
  • No waiting period on Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance
    • Employees may select an insurance plan wherein WCSD contributes 100% of insurance premiums.
  • Sick Leave, Holiday Pay and Vacation Pay
  • Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)
    • Contribution options will be explained in detail during the New Employee Orientation.
  • Salary Increases
  • Longevity Bonuses
  • Guidance Resources
  • And More - Visit our Benefits page for more information.

Temporary employees working less than 6 months do not receive benefits.
New employees will be fingerprinted upon hire and every five years thereafter and will have $58.50 deducted from their first paycheck to help defray the cost of fingerprinting. Non-licensed employees will have $58.50 deduction when their fingerprints are completed every five years. Fingerprint fees are subject to change.
The job offer is conditional until a report is returned from the FBI and Nevada Department of Public Safety that meets the standards of WCSD for employment purposes
Any applicant who would like to request a reasonable accommodation in any step of the selection process should contact Human Resources at (775) 348-0321.

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