Police Officer

Become a Police Officer

Meet the challenges and experience the rewards of serving your community!

• $73,188 - $97,575
• Paid police academy training
• Career advancement opportunities
• No age cap

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If you have any questions or if you would like to receive text alerts for this or other protective service jobs, text our recruiters at (414) 519-6190 with your full name and the position(s) for which you would like to receive alerts: Police Officer, Firefighter, or Emergency Communications Officer.

More Than an Officer: Become a Milwaukee Police Officer

Growing up in the community, you know the challenges and perceptions firsthand. Now, it’s your chance to reshape them. As a Milwaukee Police Officer, you’re not just enforcing the law—you’re a part of the community, building trust and creating positive connections. Bring your energy, empathy, and dedication to make a real difference. Apply today to join the Milwaukee Police Department, where you’re more than an officer—you’re a community leader. Watch the video to hear Officer Walker's & Officer Thompson's journeys and see how you, too, can make a lasting impact. Ready to step up? Learn more about joining the Milwaukee Police Department today.

Why choose a career with the Milwaukee Police Department

1 -To make positive changes in your community.

• You will be directly helping people in need every day.

2 -To earn a competitive salary.

• The current annual recruit starting salary is $54,891, with an increase to $73,188. upon graduation from the Academy, and increases to a maximum of $97,575 within five years (subject to contractual guidelines).
• Officers also have the opportunity to earn additional pay through over-time assignments

3 -To have a secure pension and retirement.

• A fully funded, vested pension system; available after 25 years of service.

4 -To further your education.

• You'll have access to tuition and textbook reimbursement of up to $1,500 per year and your educational achievements will be rewarded with pay increases.

5 -For opportunity for promotion and advancement.

• Supervisory and leadership positions like detective, sergeant, and lieutenant are filled though internal promotions based on competitive examinations open to all members who meet the minimum qualifications.  Funding permitting, we plan to offer these promotional exams every two years.  The maximum annual salary for a lieutenant, for example, is $117,292.

6 -To use your talents and skills to their potential.

• MPD members serve in a variety of roles and specialties from the Bomb Squad to the Underwater Investigation Unit to the Financial Crimes Unit. MPD also values your language skills: bonus pay is available for each hour you serve as an interpreter or translator.

1. Help people in need every day and make positive changes in your community

2. Earn a salary of $54,891 as a recruit, $73,188 as a graduate, and up to $97,575 within 5 years

• A fully funded, vested pension system; available after 25 years of service
• Tuition and textbook reimbursement of up to $1,500 per year
• Educational achievements rewarded with pay increases
• Supervisory and leadership positions like detective, sergeant, and lieutenant are filled though internal promotions based on competitive examinations open to all members who meet the minimum qualifications.  Funding permitting, we plan to offer these promotional exams every two years.  The maximum annual salary for a lieutenant, for example, is $117,292
• MPD members serve in a variety of roles and specialties from the Bomb Squad to the Underwater Investigation Unit to the Financial Crimes Unit. MPD also values your language skills: bonus pay is available for each hour you serve as an interpreter or translator.

Stay informed about future employment opportunities with the Milwaukee Police and Fire Departments- Sign up for Email or Text Message Alerts for Job Openings

If you wish to receive email notifications about protective service jobs with the Milwaukee Fire and Police Departments such as Police Officer, Firefighter, or Emergency Communications Officer, please sign up for the Milwaukee E-Notify system and select MFD Career Opportunities and/or MPD Career Opportunities. You can also sign up for alerts for other job opportunities with the City of Milwaukee by using the E-Notify system.  

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