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Port Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port jobs. * Experienced - You have five (5) years of experience supervising police department or ...

Police Chief

Port Washington, WI ยท On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Police Opening Date: 06/25/2026 Summary The Police Chief serves as the administrative and operational leader of the Police Department for the City of Port Washington. This position is responsible for ...

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Port Police information

See salary details

$24K

$60.6K

$84K

How much do port police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for port police in the United States is $60,629.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Port Police vs Customs Officer?

AspectPort PoliceCustoms Officer
Required CredentialsPolice academy training, law enforcement certificationCustoms training, border security certification
Work EnvironmentPort facilities, maritime security areasBorder crossings, customs offices, ports
Employer & IndustryPort authorities, law enforcement agenciesCustoms agencies, border control authorities

Port Police focus on maintaining security and law enforcement within port areas, while Customs Officers handle customs regulations, tariffs, and border security. Both roles work in port environments but have different responsibilities and required credentials. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in maritime security and port operations.

Is LA Port police hiring?

Port Police positions are typically posted on official port authority or law enforcement agency websites. Hiring processes often require passing background checks, physical exams, and sometimes specialized training or certifications. Interested candidates should regularly check the official port authority employment pages for current openings.

Is 27 too late to become a port police officer?

Port police officers typically need to meet minimum age requirements, which often start at 18 or 21, depending on the jurisdiction. Being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a career in port police, and candidates often benefit from prior experience, physical fitness, and relevant training or certifications. Age limits vary by agency, so checking specific hiring criteria is recommended.

What are Port Police?

Port Police are specialized law enforcement officers responsible for maintaining safety and security in ports, harbors, and related maritime facilities. Their duties include enforcing laws, preventing smuggling and other criminal activities, inspecting cargo, and overseeing the movement of ships and personnel within port areas. They work closely with customs, immigration, and other agencies to ensure the smooth and secure operation of port activities. Port Police play a crucial role in protecting critical infrastructure and supporting international trade.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Port Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Police Officer, you need a solid background in law enforcement, maritime security, and relevant legal knowledge, often supported by police academy training or equivalent certifications. Familiarity with surveillance systems, access control technology, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong situational awareness, decisive problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing diverse security scenarios and interacting with the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safety, security, and efficient operation of port facilities and maritime environments.

How can I become a longshoreman?

To become a longshoreman, you typically need to complete an apprenticeship or training program, gain experience working in port operations, and often obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a demanding environment are also important for this job.

What are the typical challenges Port Police officers face while ensuring security at a busy port facility?

Port Police officers often navigate challenges such as monitoring large, complex areas with high volumes of cargo and people, enforcing maritime laws, and responding swiftly to security incidents or emergencies. They must work closely with customs, coast guard, and private security teams to prevent smuggling, theft, and unauthorized access. Adapting to constantly evolving security threats and maintaining effective communication across multiple agencies are key aspects of the role.

What is top pay for Port Authority Police?

The top pay for Port Authority Police officers varies by location and experience but generally ranges from $70,000 to over $100,000 annually for senior officers with specialized training and years of service. Additional benefits often include overtime, shift differentials, and pension plans.
More about Port Police jobs
What cities are hiring for Port Police jobs? Cities with the most Port Police job openings:
What states have the most Port Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Port Police jobs include:
Infographic showing various Port Police job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,629 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Police Officer - Exceptional Entry

Police Officer - Exceptional Entry

Port of Seattle

Seatac, WA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Some of what you'll be doing:

  • You will patrol assigned areas to prevent, deter, and detect criminal activity.
  • You will enforce local, state, and federal laws, ordinances, and Port regulations.
  • You will respond to emergency calls and citizen requests for assistance with professionalism and urgency.
  • You will detain and/or arrest individuals suspected of committing crimes.
  • You will issue citations, manage traffic control, investigate vehicle collisions, and assist motorists and pedestrians as needed.
  • You will conduct thorough investigations, prepare detailed reports, and provide testimony in court.
  • You will engage with tenants, residents, businesses, and community members to build trust and maintain public safety.

Minimum Qualifications:

All of the following requirements must be met at the time of application:

  • At least 21 years of age
  • U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient
  • Able to speak, read, and write the English language
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED certificate

  • Valid Washington State Driver's License, or the ability to obtain one.

Law Enforcement Experience Requirements (One of the following must also apply):
In addition to the minimum qualifications above, you must meet one of the following law enforcement experience criteria:

  • You currently hold a Law Enforcement Certification, have less than 2 years (24 consecutive months) of experience as a full-time paid commissioned officer, and have had no more than a 2-year(24-month) break in service

OR

  • You are a Lateral Police Officer with at least 24 months of experience as a full-time paid commissioned officer,
    and have had a break in service of more than 2 years (24 months) but no more than 3 years (36 months)

OR

  • You are aย Special Agent with the Washington State Gambling Commission, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, and/or the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, you may be eligible to apply as a lateral officer

Note: The following roles are not eligible for exceptional entry or lateral consideration:

  • Federal law enforcement officers or agents
  • Correctional officers
  • Military police officers
  • You may be considered for exceptional entry level police officer approval upon review and authorization by the Police Chief or Designee.

What Sets You Apart:

  • Committed to Equity - You will apply equity and exemplify shared values, behaviors, and practices in all aspects of the work. ย At the Port of Seattle, equity is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all Port employees.
  • Leader - You understand the gravity and weight of the position of Police Officer and provide guidance to teammates and citizens whenever possible in an accountable and honest manner.
  • Effective Communicator - You possess the ability and willingness to communicate effectively with a diverse population. You also have a strong ability to document instances through professional report writing standards.
  • Analytical Problem Solver - You are able to independently and rapidly assess and solve problems in stressful situations, applying policies, rules and regulations to take appropriate action.
  • Background Investigation - You must pass a background investigation that includes a complete criminal records check, a polygraph examination, a medical examination and a psychological examination. Background investigations will be conducted as openings occur and include the following: driving history, credit history, arrest records, military records, educational records, and other sources where information can be obtained to measure one's suitability for police work. You must successfully complete a Patrol Training Officer (PTO) process once hired.
  • Automatic Disqualifiers - You will need to review our list of Automatic Disqualifiers related to Criminal Activity, Driving Record, Drug Use, Employment and Financials before submittal of your application.
  • Work Schedule - Your normal work schedule will consist of a fixed, 12.5-hour shifts and available work shifts are bid on annually by seniority. ย The patrol schedule currently consists of a dayshift running 5:00 AM to 5:30 PM and a nightshift running from 5:00 PM to 5:30 AM. As a newly hired officer, you can generally expect to initially work weekend nightshifts once their field training is complete. Some overtime may be needed to meet operational needs.
  • Work Environmentย - You will work both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. You will sometimes work in or near moving traffic and will be occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles consistent with working near aircraft and maritime vessels. You may be exposed to aircraft noise. You will be required to walk and stand for extended periods of time throughout each shift.
  • Overtime Eligible - You are eligible for overtime pay in this role.
  • Security Requirementsย - As the successful candidate, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Your employment will be contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle ID badge upon clearance. You will also be required to obtain a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Customs Seal within 30 days of hire.
  • Union Representationย - This position is represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters union, Local 117.

The Port of Seattle offers an extensive benefits package that rewards our staff for their valuable contributions towards the Port's mission. In addition to the summary below, benefit details for non-represented positions can be foundย on the Port of Seattle's website. If the position is represented by a union, please refer to the "Collective Bargaining Agreement" or contact the appropriate Union Representative for specific information related to benefits and eligibility.

  • Healthcare - Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
  • Paid Vacation - Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
  • Paid Sick Leave - At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
  • Holidays - More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
  • Pension/Retirement Plans - A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port.
  • Getting to Work - From subsidized parking and a low-cost public transit card to alternative work arrangements giving you an opportunity to work hybrid.
  • Parental Leave - Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
  • Development - From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees - regardless of race, gender, and other identities - succeed and reach their fullest potential.
  • Work-Life Balance - We provide the resources to help you create habits to be healthy and balanced.
  • Mission Driven - We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.

Every role at the Port of Seattle is vital to our thriving community. We are a leader in moving people and cargo across the country and around the world. With facilities and property ranging in scope from a half-acre park to one of the largest airports and container terminals on the West Coast, we maximize the public assets in our portfolio with an eye toward best uses and environmental sustainability. Find out more here. IND123

Our vision is to create a Port that mirrors - throughout its breadth of operations and services and within its leadership - the diversity of our communities, instill principles of equity into its culture, and ensures a fair and intentional distribution of opportunities to expand economic develop and quality of life for all in our region. Find out more about how our values RAISE us up and our commitment to equity.