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- Tasks: Join as a Police Recruit, responding to calls and engaging in community policing.
- Company: Springfield Police Department is dedicated to making a positive impact in Southwest Missouri.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent training, competitive pay, relocation reimbursement, and hiring incentives.
- Why this job: Be part of a respected agency with diverse specialisations and opportunities for growth.
- Qualifications: High school diploma or GED plus specific experience or education requirements.
- Other info: Testing assistance available; must pass physical and psychological evaluations.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 80000 £ per year.
Police Officer (New Recruits and Laterals) -08/15/2025 Testing Date
Recruitment began on July 16, 2025
and the job listing Expires on August 8, 2025
The Springfield Police Department is seeking to hire passionate new officers to make a positive impact in the Southwest Missouri area. Our department has one of the best training programs in the area, along with an abundance of diverse specialized units to experience, and an excellent benefits package.
Springfield Police Recruit
As a Springfield Police Recruit, you’ll have received quality training through the Academy to prepare you for the position of Police Officer. After graduating the Academy, you will start off in patrol, responding to emergency and non-emergency calls for service and promoting the safety of the public and of fellow police officers. You will be a proactive member of our Department, engaging in community-oriented policing, traffic enforcement, and on occasion, special detail. SPD is one of the best agencies in Missouri for specialized assignments and promotional opportunities. Learn more about becoming a Springfield Police Recruit at https://gospd.com/officer/ .
Police Recruits start at $56,825.60 during the 6-month Academy.
Upon graduation, new Officers receive an automatic pay increase to $63,128.00.
Full range for Police Officer $63,128.00-$93,246.40.
Lateral Police Officer
As a Lateral hire, you will have a shortened 1-month academy to learn about Springfield’s specific policies and procedures. Read more about our Lateral Program go to https://gospd.com/lateral/ .
Full range for Police Officer $63,128.00-$93,246.40. Staring pay is based on experience, training, and previous agency size.
Hiring Incentive
Police Officer Recruits receive $5,000.00 upon graduation from the academy.
Police Officer Laterals receive $10,000.00 upon graduation from the academy.
Selection Process
Applicants must successfully complete the following steps in the hiring process before being hired as a Springfield Police Recruit and go through our Police Academy. To learn about the hiring process here.
- Physical Agility Test
- Interview
- Drug Screen*
- Polygraph*
- Psychological Evaluation*
- Medical Examination*
*These examinations are completed after a conditional job offer is accepted.
Testing Assistance
We offer testing assistance to help with costs incurred from traveling to participate in entry testing, follow-up testing, and post testing travel.
Relocation
We love welcoming new Officers to our wonderful community. To make things easier, we offer relocation reimbursement. This benefit is offered to both new Recruits and Lateral Officer candidates.
Qualifications
- Must be a high school graduate or have a G.E.D.
AND ONE of the following:
- 30 semester credit hours from an accredited college or university;
- Class A POST certified peace officer or currently enrolled in a Class A POST program with successful passing of POST exam within six months of application deadline;
- Two (2) years of active duty military service with an honorable discharge;
- Four (4) years of honorable military service in national guard or armed forces reserves;
- Three (3) years of full-time successful ownership and management of a business within the last five (5) years
- Three (3) years of full-time employment as a correctional or detention officer within the last five (5) years;
- Three (3) years of full-time employment as a licensed professional security or private security contractor within the last five (5) years
- Three (3) years of full-time employment working in the professional trade industry within the last five (5) years
- Three (3) years of full-time employment in the last five (5) years providing paraprofessional work experience to the public or community in one of the following fields: social services, health care services, and/or education;
- Two (2) years of experience as a Police Service Representative;
- Two (2) years of experience as a Traffic Services Officer;
- Two (2) years of experience as a 911 dispatcher and/or telecommunicator.
Police Officer (Lateral) Requirements
In addition to the requirements listed above, lateral candidates must possess the following:
- A MO POST Class A license (if candidate does not possess a MO POST Class A license, but possesses law enforcement certification through another state, he/she may participate in the testing process while seeking reciprocity through MO POST)
AND
- A minimum of two years full time sworn police experience in any state within the last five years. Police experience must include the primary duties of responding to calls for service, conducting preliminary and/or follow-up investigations of crimes, responding to traffic accidents and apprehending, detaining and arresting suspects.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability and Vet
Individuals with disabilities should request reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act prior to testing or appointment. Proof of United States Citizenship/Authorization to Work in The United States as established by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986 is a condition of employment. Pre-employment drug testing is required.
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Police Officer (New Recruits and Laterals) -08/15/2025 Testing Date employer: Nichols College
Contact Detail:
Nichols College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Police Officer (New Recruits and Laterals) -08/15/2025 Testing Date
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Springfield Police Department's values and community initiatives. Understanding their mission will help you align your responses during the interview, showcasing your commitment to community-oriented policing.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the physical agility test by incorporating a fitness routine that includes strength, endurance, and agility training. Being in top physical condition will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your readiness for the demands of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former officers from the Springfield Police Department. They can provide valuable insights into the selection process and what the department looks for in candidates, giving you an edge during your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Research common interview questions for police officer positions and practice your responses. Focus on scenarios that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to handle high-pressure situations, as these are crucial in law enforcement.
We think you need these skills to ace Police Officer (New Recruits and Laterals) -08/15/2025 Testing Date
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Police Officer with the Springfield Police Department. Familiarise yourself with their community-oriented policing approach and the specific qualifications needed.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise any military service, law enforcement training, or community service that showcases your commitment to public safety.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for serving the community and detail why you want to join the Springfield Police Department. Mention any specific experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Prepare for Assessments: Be ready for the physical agility test and other assessments mentioned in the selection process. Practise relevant exercises and ensure you meet the physical requirements before the testing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nichols College
✨Know the Department's Values
Familiarise yourself with the Springfield Police Department's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to community-oriented policing will help you align your answers with what they are looking for in a candidate.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills and ability to handle stressful situations. Think of examples from your past experiences where you demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Whether you're a new recruit or a lateral hire, be sure to emphasise any relevant experience you have, such as military service, previous law enforcement roles, or community service. This will showcase your preparedness for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the department's training programs, community engagement initiatives, or career advancement opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the position and the department.
