Police Officer (Entry Level)

JOB Community Focused • Team Driven • Community SupportedClick Here for the 2026 Police Officer Entry Level Application GuideThe Highland Park Police Department is committed to protecting life and property through professional policing, strong community partnerships, and a culture built on teamwork, integrity, and service. The Department proudly embraces community-oriented policing and supports the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and NAACP Ten Shared Principles.The City of Highland Park is now accepting applications for the position of Police Officer (Entry Level). This is an opportunity to begin a rewarding career with a highly respected and progressive agency that values proactive policing, officer development, collaboration, and community engagement. We are seeking individuals who demonstrate strong judgment, professionalism, communication skills, and a genuine desire to serve others. Ideal candidates are motivated to learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact while becoming part of a department where officers are supported by both leadership and the community they serve.Highland Park officers have access to a wide range of specialized assignments and career development opportunities, including: Bicycle TeamDefensive Tactics InstructorDrone OperatorEvidence TechnicianHonor GuardJuvenile OfficerMobile Field ForcePeer Support TeamPolice Beat CoordinatorRange OfficerSchool Resource OfficerTask Force AssignmentsAnd more...Whether you are looking to begin a meaningful career in law enforcement, develop your skills, or join a department that invests in its people, Highland Park offers the opportunity to serve in a professional environment where your work matters and your contributions are valued.2026 Salary Schedule: StepTime PeriodSalaryStep 1Starting Salary$91,158.16Step 2After 6 Months$94,348.61Step 3After 1 Year$98,885.44Step 4After 2 Years$103,648.09Step 5After 3 Years$108,746.43Step 6After 4 Years$114,184.15Step 7After 5 Years$119,893.59Step 8After 6 Years$125,888.72Longevity Pay of an additional 2.5% to 9% of salary dependent on total years of service.Benefits: VacationSick LeavePaid holidays, personal daysBlue Cross Blue Shield IL Health InsuranceDental CoverageLife InsurancePension ProgramWellness Program / Employee Fitness CenterEducation / Tuition ReimbursementSubmit the following as attachments to your application: Copy of High School Diploma or equivalent (required even with college transcript)Copy of Valid Driver's License (required)Copy of Birth Record as Proof of Citizenship (required and must be certified)Copy of Official College / University Transcripts OR copy of DD-214 Long Form showing 4 years continuous service (required).Copy of Valid POWER Physical Fitness Test Card issued June 1, 2025 or later (required). EXAMPLE OF DUTIES Criminal Investigation & ApprehensionHandle complaints filed by citizens. Observe, detect, and investigate violations of laws and ordinances. Document details of violations. Conduct interviews and interrogations of victims, witnesses, suspects, offenders, and other involved parties. Conduct both preliminary and follow-up investigations. Identify, protect, collect, process, preserve, and document physical evidence. Search persons, vehicles, and other locations or items within the scope of the law. Transport, book, care for, and escort prisoners.Prepare clear, accurate, and complete reports detailing activities. Prepare and serve criminal complaints, arrest warrants, search warrants, and other court documents. Prepare cases and self for court. Appear and provide sworn testimony in various legal proceedings.Crime PreventionPatrol assigned areas, monitor for criminal activity and safety hazards. Become and remain familiar with patrol areas, geographic locations, known offenders, neighborhood routines, and potential problem areas. Conduct security inspections of buildings and other locations, taking corrective action as needed. Investigate suspicious activities and conduct field interviews when appropriate. Share information with other officers, law enforcement agencies, and city departments as needed. Educate the public on crime prevention strategies and tactics to reduce victimization.Traffic EnforcementEngage in proactive, self-initiated traffic and parking enforcement, including DUI apprehension. Control, regulate, and direct vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Investigate traffic accidents by protecting scenes, aiding injured persons, controlling traffic, clearing scenes, determining causes, taking enforcement action when required, and preparing complete reports and diagrams. Participate in efforts to reduce traffic accidents and injuries within the community.Order MaintenanceRespond to domestic disputes and other interpersonal or business conflicts. Recognize and address public hazards or quality-of-life issues, including gas leaks, water main breaks, defective traffic signals, traffic obstruct