Job Description
We are looking for entry‑level candidates who are community‑oriented, have a guardian mindset, and are dedicated to addressing community needs. Applicants who bring emotional intelligence, a commitment to justice, and a guardian’s heart will be taught the rest.
Key Characteristics & Qualifications
- Commitment to guardian‑oriented policing, building community trust, and procedural justice.
- Emotional intelligence; ability to recognize, manage emotions, and remain calm under stress.
- Strong interpersonal and written communication skills; ability to communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally.
- Sound judgment and decision‑making in complex or high‑pressure situations.
- Commitment to treating everyone with dignity and fairness.
- Cultural humility and willingness to learn from people with diverse life experiences.
- Growth mindset and ability to acknowledge errors and learn from feedback.
- Prioritization of physical and mental well‑being.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements and obtain a 70% or higher on the getbadged Entry Exam.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen.
- Age: At least 21 years old at the time of appointment to the Police Academy.
- Driver's License: Valid Massachusetts driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
- Firearms License: Ability to obtain a Massachusetts Class A License to Carry a firearm (LTC‑A).
- Education:
- Associate’s degree or equivalent; or
- High School Diploma/G.E.D. with veteran status.
- Background Investigation:
- No convictions that would be treated as felons in Massachusetts.
- Successful completion of a background investigation before employment.
- Police Academy: Completion of an FT MPTC Police Academy or equivalent and MA POST certification.
- Fitness & Medical: Completion of a physical fitness test, medical and psychological examinations, and a drug screen.
- Non‑Smoking: Must be a non‑smoker.
- Entry Exam: 70%+ on the getbadged Entry Exam.
Salary & Compensation
The Cohasset Police Department offers a competitive salary and benefits package.
Annual Salary
- $69,939–$83,510 (Effective July 1, 2026) *
- Certified officers receive credit for time served; experience and years of service determine starting salary.
- Top step for a patrol officer (July 1, 2026) $106,023, including night differential, longevity, Bachelor's degree incentive pay, and holiday pay.
Annual Benefits
- Educational Incentive
- Vacation & Personal Days
- Night & Holiday Pay
- Uniform Allowance
- Incentive Pay
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Longevity Pay
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Additional Benefits Offered
Community
- Prime South Shore location — 18 miles south of Boston, bordered by Hingham, Hull, Norwell, and Scituate.
- Coastal calls, tight‑knit neighborhoods, high visibility policing.
- Seasonal activity, coastal dynamics, and year‑round community engagement keep the job varied and meaningful.
Hiring Process & Equal Opportunity Statement
The Cohasset Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.