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Septa Police Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Base Security- The Mann Center

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Responsible for filling out the Activity Log with notable activities including police / medics ... Some other assorted responsibilities include getting head counts from our SEPTA bus loop driver ...

Septa Police information

See salary details

$21.5K

$47.6K

$82K

How much do septa police jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for septa police in the United States is $47,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $53,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get into Philly PD?

Becoming a Septa Police officer is competitive and typically requires meeting minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or GED, passing physical and written exams, and completing a background check. Candidates often need to demonstrate good communication skills, physical fitness, and sometimes prior law enforcement or security experience.

What is the difference between Septa Police vs SEPTA Transit Security Officer?

AspectSepta PoliceSEPTA Transit Security Officer
CredentialsPolice Academy training, law enforcement certificationSecurity training, sometimes basic law enforcement knowledge
Work EnvironmentEnforces laws, patrols transit system, has arrest authorityMonitors security cameras, assists passengers, reports incidents
Employer & IndustrySEPTA police department, law enforcementSEPTA security division, transit safety

Septa Police officers have law enforcement authority, undergo police academy training, and actively enforce laws within the transit system. In contrast, SEPTA Transit Security Officers focus on safety, surveillance, and passenger assistance without arrest powers. Both roles work within the transit industry but differ significantly in authority and responsibilities.

What are SEPTA Police?

SEPTA Police are law enforcement officers who work for the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). They are responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers, employees, and property across SEPTA’s transit system, which includes buses, trains, trolleys, and stations throughout the Philadelphia region. SEPTA Police officers have full police powers and are trained to handle a range of situations, from crime prevention and investigation to emergency response. They work closely with local, state, and federal agencies to maintain a safe public transportation environment.

How much does a SEPTA cop make?

A SEPTA police officer typically earns an annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. They may also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, with some officers working rotating shifts including nights and weekends.

What are some common challenges faced by SEPTA Police Officers and how are they supported in handling them?

SEPTA Police Officers often face unique challenges such as maintaining safety across a large and busy transit system, interacting with a diverse public, and responding to incidents in confined or crowded environments like trains and stations. Officers are supported through ongoing training in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and emergency response. Additionally, they work closely with fellow officers, supervisors, and other first responders, ensuring a team-based approach to managing difficult situations. Regular briefings and access to mental health resources also help officers cope with the demands of the job.

Do SEPTA police carry guns?

SEPTA police officers are armed and carry firearms as part of their law enforcement duties. They are trained and authorized to carry guns to ensure safety on transit systems and respond to emergencies. Proper certification and training are required for officers to carry and use firearms legally and effectively.

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

To thrive as a SEPTA Police Officer, you need a solid background in law enforcement procedures, criminal justice, and must typically meet requirements such as a high school diploma or GED, police academy graduation, and Act 120 certification. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and incident reporting tools is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure distinguish outstanding officers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring public safety, effective incident response, and positive community relations in a transit environment.

How old do you have to be to be a SEPTA police officer?

To become a SEPTA police officer, applicants must be at least 21 years old. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete police training. Age requirements may vary slightly depending on specific hiring criteria and certifications.
What cities are hiring for Septa Police jobs? Cities with the most Septa Police job openings:
What states have the most Septa Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Septa Police jobs include:
SEPTA Transit Police Officer (0007) - 1234 Market

$85K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Secure your FUTURE with SEPTA today! 

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is the sixth largest transportation system in the United States, with a vast network of fixed route services including bus, subway/elevated, trackless trolley, light rail, and commuter rail serving a 2,200 square mile service region.SEPTA has become an integral force in the economic success of the Philadelphia region, providing an efficient and reliable source of transportation. 

OVERALL DESCRIPTION:

Since 1981, the SEPTA Transit Police Department has been dedicated to keeping customers safe and secure, while protecting SEPTA property and staff.

SEPTA Transit Police Officers are responsible for policing the entire regional SEPTA system, covering an area of five Pennsylvania counties (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia) and three states (Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania).

Nearly 220+ officers serve and protect within the 2,200 square-mile SEPTA service area. There are three patrol districts, allowing officers to easily respond to emergencies while empowering them to quickly make decisions and address local issues.

The SEPTA Transit Police Department extends beyond the regular beat with units of specially trained officers. These units receive an additional level of training and provide specialized support in policing a public transit system.

OVERVIEW TRANSIT POLICE OFFICER:

Join the SEPTA Transit Police Department

SEPTA's Recruitment Department is currently accepting applications for the position of Transit Police Officer

for the next Police Academy class starting January, 2026

Salary range: Starting rate in Police Academy (as of 8/31/25) $64,529 - increases to $71,243 after graduation. Future increases up to $85k+.

SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILTIES:
  1. Enforces rules or regulations. 
  2. Interviews witnesses to obtain information about incidents.
  3. Prepares investigation or incident reports.
  4. Patrols properties to maintain safety. 
  5. Maintains surveillance of individuals or establishments, records information about suspicious objects. 
  6. Apprehends criminal suspects. 
  7. Collaborates with other law enforcement while responding to incidents. 
  8. Investigates illegal or suspicious activities. 
  9. Complies with all Authority and departmental safety and security policies and procedures as well as all applicable job safety responsibilities. Reports any safety concerns, compromises or hazards affecting operations, the public, self and/or other employees. Responsible for personal safety and is encouraged to promote the safety of others.
  10. Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • *Be at least 21 years of age and a U.S. citizen. 
  • *Must possess a high school diploma or GED, 
  • *Must possess a valid driver's license. 
  • *Must pass the Pennsylvania State (MPOETC) physical fitness requirements
  • Click on or copy the following link into your address bar to find the specific physical fitness requirements for your age and gender:  Transit Police Officer Physical Requirements 
  • Prior to undergoing formal officer training, recruits are required to pass a reading exam, medical screening, physical agility test, polygraph and psychological exams.
  • Assuming recruits meet these qualifications, they will receive academy training at a program certified by the Municipal Police Officer's Education and Training Commission alongside their municipal counterparts. Upon completion of this training, they will attend in-service training and orientation. Officers will also attend an additional 40 hours of training annually to retain their certification
SEPTA BENEFITS:

SEPTA provides outstanding benefit and retirement programs: 

Medical Benefits - Current HMO annual premium contribution = 2.5% of 40-hour hourly rate

These plans have no employee annual premium contribution:

  • Prescription Benefits Program
  • Dental Benefits  
  • Vision Benefits

Additional benefits we offer:

  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • Voluntary Governmental 457B Deferred Comp Plan 
  • Life Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • SEPTA employment also qualifies for the federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program
  • SEPTA Transportation Pass - FREE travel on all SEPTA modes of transportation
  • Tremendous training opportunities
TRANSIT POLICE OFFICER COMPENSATION:

SEPTA Police Officers' salaries on the level of Police Departments throughout the Philadelphia region.

  • $64,529 annually (as of 8/31/25) - Starting rate for six months at the Police Academy
  • $71,243 annually - After academy to 12 months of service
  • $81,091 annually - 13 to 24 months of service
  • $85,191 annually - After 24 months of service
  • Officers with previous service in other Police Departments, will receive up to 3 years of service credit. 
  • There are no residency requirements for SEPTA Police Officers.

SEPTA is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

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