Police Officer (Entry Level)

Description of Primary Purpose Community Focused • Team Driven • Community Supported Click Here for the 2026 Police Officer Entry Level Application Guide The 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 Team Defensive Tactics Instructor Drone Operator Evidence Technician Honor Guard Juvenile Officer Mobile Field Force Peer Support Team Police Beat Coordinator Range Officer School Resource Officer Task Force Assignments And 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: Step Time Period Salary Step 1 Starting Salary $91,158.16 Step 2 After 6 Months $94,348.61 Step 3 After 1 Year $98,885.44 Step 4 After 2 Years $103,648.09 Step 5 After 3 Years $108,746.43 Step 6 After 4 Years $114,184.15 Step 7 After 5 Years $119,893.59 Step 8 After 6 Years $125,888.72 Longevity Pay of an additional 2.5% to 9% of salary dependent on total years of service. Benefits: Vacation Sick Leave Paid holidays, personal days Blue Cross Blue Shield IL Health Insurance Dental Coverage Life Insurance Pension Program Wellness Program / Employee Fitness Center Education / Tuition Reimbursement Submit 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). Essential Duties and Responsibilities Criminal Investigation & Apprehension Handle 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 Prevention Patrol 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 inform