Entry-Level Patrol Officer — 12-Hour Shifts & Impact

Decatur Police Department; Decatur (IL); On-site; USD 69,000 - 84,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

12-hour shifts

Promotional opportunities

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Vacation & sick leave

Tuition reimbursement

Wellness program

Job summary

Decatur Police Department is seeking police officers to patrol and respond to emergencies in Decatur, IL. The role involves making quick, informed decisions, enforcing laws, and working with the community to ensure public safety.

The starting pay is $76,663 with a $5,000 sign-on bonus; after one year the salary rises to $78,520 and with four years of experience to $94,463. Higher ranks offer six-figure compensation and longevity pay.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen and aged 21–35.
• No felony convictions; FOID card required.
• Illinois driver’s license required.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Good health, moral character, and emotional resilience.

Responsibilities

• Patrol city areas to maintain law and order and enforce traffic laws.
• Respond to calls, investigate complaints, and conduct follow-up investigations.
• Gather evidence, interview witnesses, make arrests, and testify in court.
• Direct traffic and handle a wide variety of incidents.
• Prepare detailed reports and support the DPD mission.

Skills

Physical fitness

Calm under pressure

Decision making

Community policing

Education

High school diploma

Job description

Decatur Police Department is seeking police officers to patrol and respond to emergencies in Decatur, IL. The role involves making quick, informed decisions, enforcing laws, and working with the community to ensure public safety.

The starting pay is $76,663 with a $5,000 sign-on bonus; after one year the salary rises to $78,520 and with four years of experience to $94,463. Higher ranks offer six-figure compensation and longevity pay.