Working for the Phoenix Police Department

The slogan used on recruiting billboards around Phoenix in 1955 really is as true today as it was back then. The main difference is that we don't refer to our department as a "police force", because we go beyond just being a "force" in the community. The Phoenix Police Department is a professional organization dedicated to providing unparalleled service to the community we represent. As such, one thing certain to never change is the fact that being a police officer is "A Job You Can Be Proud Of". This section of our web site is devoted to providing you with everything you need to know about becoming a police officer for our agency.

Just a Little History

Ask anyone about Phoenix and it is likely they will say something about the summer heat (its hot!). Or, they may tell you about our world-class resorts that make the city a year-round playground. They might mention something about our basketball team, the Phoenix Suns, or the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. It's possible that the Phoenix Police Department may not enter into the conversation, yet we are recognized nationally as one of the most progressive law enforcement organizations in the country.

Historically speaking, the city began as an oasis in the desert, the agricultural Mecca of Arizona. While agriculture remains vital, other industries are now attracting people from all over the world.  For example, the high tech industry is migrating here from California and tourism continues to be a huge industry that earns the state more than $7 billion annually. Currently, there are more than two million residents living in the Valley of the Sun, and just over 1.2 million of them live in Phoenix. Economically, the Phoenix area continues to thrive in all areas of business, technology and real estate

Benefits of Being a Phoenix Police Officer

There are many benefits that come with being a Phoenix police officer, and any one of the 2,800+ officers currently on our department can attest to this fact. We seek out the most qualified men and women to serve as police officers and we offer a very competitive pay and benefits package to those individuals who successfully complete the hiring process.

We have a very lengthy list of benefits available to police officers that includes, but is not limited to, paid leave under a variety of circumstances, 20-year retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, longevity pay, career enhancement program and comprehensive medical and dental plans. To learn more about the benefits package for police officer click here.

There are Many Assignments to Choose From

We are the largest law enforcement agency in the state, and with that comes ample opportunities to work in special assignments or promote through the ranks. For the person who enjoys the challenge of new experiences, there are over 20 different bureaus that make up the department and there is a tremendous variety of full time positions available to all police officers. Some of the more popular assignments are:

• Undercover Detectives (drug enforcement, vice, organized crime)
  
• Investigations (homicide, robbery, assaults)
  
• Motorcycle Officer
  
• K-9 Handler
  
• Bomb Squad
  
• Special Assignments Unit (SWAT)
  
• Field Training Officer
  
• Gang Squad Officer
  
• School Resource Officer
• Helicopter Pilot

The ability to secure any one of these assignments is attainable by any Phoenix police officer with a desire to take on new challenges and who has completed 3 to 4 years of service as a patrol officer. There are also supervisory positions in each of these areas.

The Phoenix Police Department hires only the most qualified applicants, thus the testing and selection process is very competitive. We encourage applicants to review our hiring standards to see if they are up to the challenge of working for one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the country. Those who are successful will be rewarded with a lifetime of opportunities and memories.