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Join Our Team

 

The Cincinnati Police Department (CPD) is an award-winning, nationally recognized law enforcement agency. The Department uses evidence-based policing, intelligence-driven strategies, community involvement, and innovative technology to make Cincinnati one of the safest cities in Ohio.

QUALIFICATIONS

To apply, a candidate must:

  • Be at least 20 years old (No maximum age)

  • Have a high school diploma or GED

  • Have a valid Driver's License

  • Reside in Hamilton County or an adjacent county when the Academy starts

SALARY AND BENEFITS

As a police recruit, you'll make $56,238 annually. Once you complete the Police Academy curriculum and graduate, you will immediately be promoted to a police officer. A police officer's salary starts at $88,827 annually.

You'll also benefit from:

  • 4-day work weeks
  • Comprehensive health plan - Starting on day 1 of the Academy, you'll receive contractually negotiated premiums capped at $85 for individuals and $200 for families.
  • Sick and parental leave - Employees receive 104 hours of paid sick leave per year. Sick days roll over from year to year and can accumulate without limit. An additional 6 weeks for maternity/paternity leave is provided by the city.
  • Overtime and court time accumulation
  • Pension plan - All officers are enrolled in a pension plan with Ohio Police and Fire. You'll be eligible for retirement after 25 years of service when you're 52 years old.
 

SELECTION PROCESS

STEP 1: Complete the online application. The Cincinnati Police Department accepts applications continuously.

STEP 2: Pass the multiple-choice test.

STEP 3: Complete and submit the personal history questionnaire. This requires a compilation of extensive biographical information, references, and fingerprinting.

STEP 4: Complete the background investigation and polygraph. A background investigator will check employment, police, financial, and military records. The investigator will also interview family members, neighbors, supervisors, co-workers, and friends. A polygraph examination will be conducted to confirm the truthfulness of the candidate’s personal history questionnaire.

STEP 5: Participate in the Home Interview.

STEP 6: Pass the Physical Fitness Assessment. View examples of workouts for a variety of skill levels.

STEP 7: After passing the fitness assessment, candidates will receive a medical and psychological evaluation. These evaluations will ensure that the candidate has no physical or mental conditions that would restrict their ability to safely perform the functions of being a police officer.