Police Officer
The Columbus Police Department is currently accepting applications for police officers until March 18, 2026. Applicant testing will be held March 28th.
2026 Salary: $74,984 – $95,979
Lateral Pay Available: Up to 8 years of prior full-time experience honored for pay & PTO
Pay Incentives & Allowances
-Specialty pay up to $3,000/year (payable after probationary year)
-Clothing allowance: $900/year
-College incentive pay: up to $2,850/year
-Military service incentive pay: up to $1,424/year
-Shift differential: 2nd shift receives 5%, 3rd shift receives 10%
Paid Time Off & Shifts
-Up to five (5) weeks of vacation time, and paid floating holidays
-8.5-hour patrol shifts with every other weekend off
-Take-home vehicle use in Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson, and Shelby counties
Health &Wellness
-City health plan members (employees and dependents) have access to medical care with no co-pay through Employer Health Partners at Nexus Park
-Employee Assistance Program
-Wellness program and health programs (Officers are permitted one hour to work out/exercise during shift)
-On-site police workout/fitness room
Retirement & Other Info
-20-year retirement eligibility – 52% of First-Class Patrolman salary (maximum of 76% at 32 years of service)
-City covers 50% of employee’s pension contribution, in addition to employer costs
-Officers may have beards and visible tattoos (excluding face, neck and hands)
Learn more at: https://www.columbus.in.gov/police/careers/
-Must be a United States Citizen
-Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
-Must have a valid Driver’s License
-Must be at least 21 years old and not older than 39 years old when sworn-in
-Must not have a conviction in the past five years that has not been expunged for:
-Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs
-Operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated or with a blood alcohol content of .08 of higher
-Domestic battery
-Must not have a felony conviction that has not been expunged
-Must successfully complete all phases of the hiring process
The Columbus Police Department (CPD) is seeking applicants with a strong work ethic that are driven to make a difference in our community. CPD has a long history of integrity and service. We are looking for applicants that can continue that legacy.
While not required, a college education, law enforcement experience, and/or military service will improve an applicant’s standing.
Applicants with prior law enforcement experience may be eligible for our lateral officer program. For more information visit: https://www.columbus.in.gov/police/lateral-hire-salary-and-benefits/
123 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
United States