Entry-Level Police Patrol Officer

Engage in a variety of policing activities, including patrols, investigations, traffic control, and emergency response. Exercise autonomy and make critical decisions during emergencies, working collaboratively with fellow officers and community partners.


Why Join?
The Decatur Police Department (DPD) is dedicated to maintaining a team of diverse, highly-qualified officers to serve and protect the City of Decatur, Illinois. DPD offers specialized training, promotional opportunities, and diverse career paths within law enforcement.  

After one year, an officer's salary increases to $78,520.
With four years of experience, an officer earns $94,463.

The maximum salary, including longevity pay, is as follows:
•    Patrol Officer                $106,827
•    Master Patrol Officer    $111,595
•    Detective                       $116,364
•    Sergeant                        $131,104



Key Benefits & Opportunities:
•    Balanced Work-Life: Enjoy a 12-hour patrol schedule with every other weekend off (Friday/Saturday/Sunday), totaling approximately 182 working days per year.
•    Community-Centric Policing: Foster relationships with diverse communities through neighborhood policing and community partnerships.
•    Advanced Training & Development: Access to specialized training and promotional opportunities across various law enforcement fields.
•    State-of-the-Art Facilities: Work in modern, technology-equipped environments.
•    Competitive Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent retirement plan, comprehensive health benefits, paid vacation, and sick leave.
•    Dedicated Health Center: Free check-ups/physicals, chronic condition management, bloodwork, immunizations, and numerous free prescriptions for employees and dependents.
•    Employee Wellness Programs: Comprehensive fitness, and wellness initiatives including mental health support.
.•   Tuition Reimbursement: Support for ongoing education and professional development.

•    Patrol & Enforcement: Monitor city areas to maintain law and order, enforce traffic laws, and uphold local ordinances.
•    Emergency Response: Respond to calls, investigate complaints, and handle a wide variety of incidents. Conduct follow-up investigations as assigned.
•    Crime & Accident Management: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, make arrests, and prepare case information for prosecution. Testify in court when required.
•    Traffic Control: Conduct traffic duties, operate radar units, apprehend violators, issue tickets, and direct traffic.
•    Conflict Resolution: Address disputes and disturbances, make arrests when necessary, and prepare detailed reports.
•    Additional Responsibilities: Perform related duties as assigned, supporting the overall DPD mission.



•    Age & Citizenship: Must be aged 21 to 35 (possible exceptions up to four years for those over 35 with specialized police-related training or experience). Must be a U.S. citizen.
•  Legal & Professional Standing: No felony convictions; certain misdemeanor convictions may disqualify applicants. Must meet Illinois FOID card requirements.
•   Driver's License: Must possess a valid Illinois driver's license.
•  Educational Background: High school diploma or equivalent required. Further education and police-related training are advantageous.
•  Physical & Mental Requirements: Good health, moral character, and emotional resilience are essential. Physical agility and quick decision-making skills are required. Tattoos and body art are prohibited on the face.



Pre-Employment Assessment Process 
1. Written Examination Comprehensive National Testing Network (NTN) test covering language ability, writing, reading, and video scenarios.
2. Oral Interview Face-to-face interview. Veterans may receive preference points added to the final examination score.
3. Ride-Along Accompany an officer during shift patrol for a better understanding of the position.
4. Peace Officer Wellness Evaluation Report (POWER) Test Physical fitness assessment evaluating strength, agility, and endurance.
5. Background Investigations Review of police records, employment, educational, and credit history, personal references, and other sources of information.


Residency Requirement:
Must reside within 50 miles of the corporate limits of the city of Decatur within 90 days after completing the 18-month probationary period.




About Decatur
•    Central Illinois: Easy access to Chicago, St. Louis, and Indianapolis adds to its appeal as an affordable place to live, work, and play.
•   Entertainment Abounds: Enjoy concerts at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, performing arts at Millikin University, and shows in the historic Lincoln Theatre downtown.
•   Family Fun: Cool off at Splash Cove waterpark or head to Overlook Adventure Park for mini golf or the ropes course.
•    Enriched by Art: Appreciate murals gracing city walls and sculptures stretching from the Scovill Zoo to the Children's Museum.
•    Outdoor Recreation: Indulge in boating and kayaking on Lake Decatur or explore multiple golf courses, bike trails, and disc golf.


To Apply
Ready to make a difference? Apply online at Apply Decatur Police Patrol Officer.  We embrace diversity and encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Learn more at Join Decatur PD.

Candidates will be subject to a pre-employment drug screen, physical exam, and psychological evaluation post offer. The City of Decatur is a drug-free workplace. This includes marijuana.