1

Temporary Police Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Largo, MD · On-site

$47K - $51K/yr

... Temporary Regular Summary Responsible for performing specialized police work in protecting life and property, preventing violations, enforcing laws and regulations on College property apprehending ...

OFFICER

Washington, DC · On-site

$75K - $111K/yr

If you use the Temporary Housing benefit, that amount is deducted from this total $6000 benefit. *Police officer applications are ONLY accepted directly through Other Significant Factors The District ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Temporary Police information

See Washington salary details

$10

$24

$44

How much do temporary police jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary police in Washington is $24.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $28.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary police officer?

Temporary police officers are law enforcement personnel hired for a limited period to assist with specific needs, such as covering staff shortages, special events, or emergency situations. Unlike permanent officers, temporary police may have contracts that last for a few weeks or months, depending on the department's requirements. They generally have similar duties to regular officers, including patrolling neighborhoods, responding to incidents, and enforcing laws. However, their employment is not permanent and often does not come with the same benefits or job security. Departments may use temporary police to maintain public safety during peak periods or transitions.

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

To thrive as a Temporary Police Officer, you generally need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, completion of police academy training, and appropriate licensing or certification. Familiarity with police communication systems, report-writing software, and evidence management tools is commonly required. Strong judgment, resilience, and interpersonal communication skills help manage high-pressure situations and interact effectively with the public. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and maintaining community trust during temporary assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary police officers, and how can they be addressed?

Temporary Police Officers often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new procedures, team dynamics, and jurisdictions, since their assignments may change frequently or be of limited duration. Building rapport with permanent staff and the community in a short time frame can also be demanding. To succeed, it's important to be adaptable, proactive in learning local protocols, and communicate openly with supervisors and colleagues. Seeking out mentorship or guidance from experienced officers can also help smooth the transition and ensure effective performance.

What is the difference between Temporary Police vs Permanent Police?

AspectTemporary PolicePermanent Police
CredentialsBasic law enforcement training, short-term certificationFull police academy training, certification, and ongoing education
Work EnvironmentTemporary assignments, short-term roles, often in specific events or emergenciesFull-time, long-term employment with regular shifts and duties
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by law enforcement agencies for short-term needs or special eventsStandard law enforcement roles within police departments
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking short-term law enforcement roles or event securityIndividuals looking for full-time police careers

Temporary Police roles are short-term positions often filled for specific events or emergencies, requiring basic law enforcement credentials. Permanent Police positions are full-time roles with comprehensive training and ongoing responsibilities. The main difference lies in duration, training, and employment stability.

What is the easiest law enforcement job to get?

The easiest law enforcement job to obtain is often a community service officer or a civilian support role, which typically require less training and have lower entry barriers than sworn officer positions. These roles may require a high school diploma or equivalent and sometimes basic certifications, but generally involve less rigorous testing and training processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Police jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Temporary Police jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Temporary Police job openings:

Temporary Police Dispatcher

City of Fairfax

Fairfax, VA

$24/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Answer emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatch appropriate personnel to the scene of an event.

  • Monitor police radio traffic, document radio communications, and maintain the status of units on duty.

  • Operate computer systems such as VCIN, NCIC, and CAD/RMS to enter data, assist with warrant control, and support law enforcement activities.


Job description

Description Applications are now being accepted for Police Dispatcher positions in the City of Fairfax Police Department. All Dispatchers are assigned to the Administrative Services Division, and are supervised by the Information Services Lieutenant, and the Emergency Communications Center Supervisor. Dispatchers work in the Emergency Communication Center, located at Police Headquarters.

A Dispatchers primary responsibility is for answering emergency and non-emergency calls, dispatching the appropriate personnel to the scene of an event, and monitoring the police radio. On the job training is conducted by a certified training officer in the Emergency Communications Center during normal operating hours. Training will consist of written tests, accomplishing certain tasks, daily feedback and daily observation reports.

Training is normally 14 weeks but may be extended if needed. Once hired, all Dispatchers are required to attend and successfully complete an Academy course for entry level dispatchers. All Dispatchers are required to obtain and keep a Full Access NCIC/VCIN certification.

This job/class works under close supervision according to set procedures. The hiring process may consist of the following: Application/Pre-Screening Questions/Personal History Statement submission, Initial Interview, Panel Interview, Typing Test, Practical Exam, Conditional Job Offer, Background Investigation, Polygraph Testing, Psychological Testing, Chief's Interview and Final Approval/Job Offer. Examples Of Duties Answers Emergency and Non-Emergency phone calls made to the Police Department.

Answers and dispatches officers on police radio system; monitors and documents necessary radio traffic. Police Dispatchers will dispatch calls for service to officers working in the field and maintain status of all units on duty. Operate the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and National Crime Information Center (NCIC) computer terminals.

Assist with warrant control procedures, tow operations and entering data into the department's Computer Aided Dispatch / Records Management System (CAD/RMS). Monitor traffic cameras and police headquarters security system. Enter calls for service into a Computer Aided Dispatch system for dispatching; documents events and Conducts license, vehicle tag checks and wanted files for officers and detectives; relays the information.

Use NCIC/VCIN for various types of information sharing. Assists officers with DMV and criminal history information. Assists citizens on walk-in basis with complaints and questions.

Supply information and assistance for other City departments. As assigned, enter complaints, maintain computerized warrants, maintains digital logbooks for internal data and record keeping, and Tow-in logbooks. Perform other duties as assigned.

The duties listed above are intended only as an illustration of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. Qualifications Requires High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Must be a United States citizen eligible for employment. Must have never committed, been involved in, or been convicted of a felony. Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Must be able to handle the multi-tasking duties of a call taker or dispatcher in a small dispatch environment.

Working knowledge of street system and geography of the City of Fairfax and surrounding jurisdictions. Working knowledge in the operation of a police radio, telephone, computer, and related communications equipment. Working knowledge of City and state laws, as required.

Skill in operation of a computer. Must be able to make NCIC/VCIN entrees with minimum errors. Ability to operate radio, telephone, fax machine and computer equipment quickly and accurately.

Ability to speak clearly and concisely and to use good diction. Ability to think and act quickly, calmly, and accurately in emergency situations. Ability to demonstrate strong customer service skills while interacting with various members of the community.

Ability to maintain required records and perform limited typing. Ability to maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to prioritize requests for service.

Supplemental Information After all training is completed, you may work flexible hours that might include days, nights, weekends and holidays based on the need of the agency. Position is considered Temporary and will not be able to work twelve months consecutively. Permitted to work up to 1559 hours in a fiscal year and not more than 40 hours per week.

No benefits or leave provided. Additional pay may be considered based on past experience, ability to speak a foreign language (proficiency test required), and other job-related skills. As an equal opportunity employer and in order to respond to the needs of a diverse community, minorities and women are encouraged to submit applications.

Spanish speaking individuals are also encouraged to apply.