Job Description
Police Officer The City of Mankato Public Safety is actively recruiting police officer candidates with strong critical thinking skills, effective communication, and a proven dedication to community policing. We welcome both entry-level and experienced lateral entry candidates. Candidates that are not currently eligible for licensing but expect to complete the MN POST exam by September 15, 2026, are encouraged to apply. Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience: Associate's Degree in Police Science, Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice from an accredited university, college, or vocational technical institute. (Must have completed a program requiring actual classroom instruction and training, excluding programs exclusively by correspondence, or such other education as may be considered equivalent.) Licensed by the Minnesota Police Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T) Board or be eligible to be licensed by the Minnesota P.O.S.T. Board by September 15, 2026. (both academic and skills training completed) Must possess a valid driver's license and be able to drive in the state of Minnesota. What the City of Mankato offers: 2026 SALARY SCHEDULE - Police Officers starting at Entry Wage Progression Officers starting at Entry Wage will move to the next step upon successful completion of FTO during the next compensation increase cycle (March 1, July 1, November 1) Police Officers who receive "meets expectations" during their annual performance evaluation will move to the 1 year step. 2026 - Entry Wage - Upon FTO Completion Step - 1 Year Step Base Wage + 1.75% add to base for all hours worked in lieu of time and half for holiday pay - $39.01 - $40.81 - $42.70 2026 Full Salary Schedule Police Officer wage rates include base wage + 1.75% add to base for all hours worked in lieu of time and half for holiday pay. 2026 - Entry - Upon FTO Completion - 1 Year - 2 Year - 3 yea