Smithville - Entry Level Police Officer

Join the Smithville Police Department

The Smithville Police Department is seeking motivated, service-minded individuals who want to build a rewarding career in law enforcement.

Whether you are an experienced officer looking for a fresh start or a recruit ready to begin your career, Smithville offers competitive pay, strong benefits, modern equipment, and a supportive work environment.

Work in a community that values its police department and has recently demonstrated that support through the passage of a public safety sales tax. That investment helps strengthen public safety resources and shows a real commitment to the future of the department. We value community policing, where you have the opportunity to not only know the community you serve, but to be a part of the community you are protecting.

Smithville is also a community that strongly supports its police department. That support was recently demonstrated through the passage of a public safety sales tax, reflecting a clear investment in public safety personnel, services, and resources.

If you are looking for a department that values professionalism, wellness, development, and community support, we encourage you to apply.

Why Smithville?

Competitive Pay and Strong Benefits

We offer a competitive salary structure for both entry-level and experienced officers, along with benefits designed to support officers and their families.

Modern Vehicles and Equipment

Our officers work with up-to-date patrol vehicles, equipment, and technology that support officer safety and operational effectiveness.

Opportunities to Grow

We are committed to professional development and training, giving officers the opportunity to build skills, prepare for advancement, and continue growing throughout their careers.

Wellness-Focused Culture

We recognize the demands of this profession and offer benefits that support work-life balance, officer wellness, and long-term retention.

Pay and Incentives

• Starting salary for POST-certified officers: $65,000 annually ($31.25/hour)
• Starting salary for police recruits while attending the academy: $61,750 annually ($29.69/hour)
• Lateral Transfer Salary: up to $84,810 annually, based on qualifying experience
• Maximum Officer Pay: $89,975.20 annually, with room to grow

Hiring Incentives

• $4,000 for Missouri POST-certified officers
• $7,000 for Missouri POST-certified officers with more than one year of patrol experienc

Benefits

Schedule and Perks

• 12-hour shifts
• Every other weekend off
• Night shift differential for all hours worked 7p-7a
• Lenient tattoo and beard policy
• Department-provided cell phone
• Boot reimbursement
• Multiple uniform options, including lightweight performance shirts for summe 

Wellness and Leave

• Sabbatical Program- Paid sabbatical leave after every fourth year of employment, includes four weeks of paid leave to support officer mental health. 
• Six weeks of paid parental leave
• Vacation leave accrued from the start of employment, with increased accrual based on years of service, with 104 hours accrued in the first year.
• Sick leave accrued from the start of employment, with 104 hours accrued in the first year.
• 11 paid holidays plus 2 floating holidays each year 

Insurance and Financial Benefits

• LAGERS L6 retirement plan, effective July 2026.
• Life insurance provided at $50,000, with additional insurance available.
• Multiple medical insurance plans available, including a 100% paid option for the employee
• Dental and vision insurance available
• Optional Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligible