Police Officer (Lateral)

Police Officer (Lateral Entry)

The Highland Park Police Department is committed to protecting life and property through professional policing, strong community partnerships, and a culture built on teamwork, integrity, and service. The Department proudly embraces community-oriented policing and supports the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and NAACP Ten Shared Principles. The City of Highland Park is now accepting applications for the position of Police Officer (Lateral Entry). This is an opportunity to join a highly respected and progressive agency that values proactive policing, officer development, collaboration, and community engagement. We are seeking experienced officers who are motivated to grow professionally, make a meaningful impact, and become part of a department where officers are supported by both leadership and the community they serve. Highland Park officers have access to a wide range of specialized assignments and career development opportunities, including:

• Bicycle Team
• Defensive Tactics Instructor
• Drone Operator
• Evidence Technician
• Honor Guard
• Juvenile Officer
• Mobile Field Force
• Peer Support Team
• Police Beat Coordinator
• Range Officer
• School Resource Officer
• Task Force Assignments
• And more...

Whether you are looking to continue building your career, expand your skill set, or join a department that invests in its people, Highland Park offers the opportunity to serve in a professional environment where your work matters and your contributions are valued. Advanced step and vacation placement possible up to Step 6 for "transferable credit" with current department.

2026 Salary Schedule:

• Step 1 - Starting Salary - $91,158.16 - Less than 12 months of service
• Step 2 - After 6 Months - $94,348.61 - 12-23 full months of service
• Step 3 - After 1 Year - $98,885.44 - 24-35 full months of service
• Step 4 - After 2 Years - $103,648.09 - 36-47 full months of service
• Step 5 - After 3 Years - $108,746.43 - 48-59 full months of service
• Step 6 - After 4 Years - $114,184.15 - 60 full months of service or more
• Step 7 - After 5 Years - $119,893.59
• Step 8 - After 6 Years - $125,888.72
• Longevity Pay of an additional 2.5% to 9% of salary dependent on total years of service.

Benefits:

• Vacation
• Sick Leave
• Paid holidays, personal days
• Blue Cross Blue Shield IL Health Insurance
• Dental Coverage
• Life Insurance
• Pension Program
• Wellness Program / Employee Fitness Center
• Education / Tuition Reimbursement

Submit the following as attachments to your application:

• Copy of High School Diploma or equivalent (required even with college transcript)
• Copy of Valid Driver's License (required)
• Copy of Birth Record as Proof of Citizenship (required and must be certified)
• Copy of DD-214 Long Form showing 4 years continuous service OR copy of Official College / University Transcripts (required).