The Austin Police Department is a team of 2,646 sworn law enforcement officers who carry out police operations in the city of Austin. It serves the diverse population of the 11th largest city in the US. Austin’s finest is always hard at work trying to bring down crime rates in the city. The violent crime rate in the city decreased 8% from 2017 to 2018; the property crime rate saw an 8% increase in the same period; aggravated assault rate decreased by an impressive 14%, which is a 10-year low for the city.

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With a crime situation that paints a mixed picture, Austin’s Police Department is always on the lookout for new recruits. If you want to join this force and contribute towards making this city a safe place, then the following guide on how to become a police officer in Austin is just the thing you need.

Requirements to Become a Police Officer in Austin

Before you start the hiring process for becoming a police officer in Austin, you need to ensure you meet the following requirements:

  • Candidate must be at least 20.5 years old and should be younger than 46 years at the time of application
  • Candidate must have at least a high school diploma or a GED
  • Candidate must have a valid driver’s license
  • Candidate must be a US citizen
  • Candidate must be able to read, write and speak in English

Hiring Process for Becoming a Police Officer in Austin

Once you have satisfied the above requirements, you can move on to the actual hiring process:

Step 1: Submit the Application

This involves submitting an online application

Step 2: Pass the Intake Review

This is a preliminary review

Step 3: Clear the Phase I Testing

This would be a series of exams including a written exam, a psychological exam and a physical fitness test

Step 4: Clear the Background Investigation

This would involve a thorough check of your work history, relationships, criminal background and personal history

Step 5: Pass the Phase II Testing

This would include a psychological interview, an oral board interview, a polygraph exam and medical assessment etc.

Step 6: Get Your Conditional Offer for Hire

Candidates who successfully pass all the above stages will be given a conditional offer of employment

Step 7: Attend the Mandatory Orientation Session

This would take place at the Training Academy almost 3-5 weeks before the start of the academy

How Much Does a Police Officer Make in Austin?

According to the Austin Police Department Recruiting website, Police Recruits are paid an annual salary of $50,000 during their academy training. Upon graduation, the salary is increased to $59,268 per year. At the first anniversary of graduation, it goes up to $66,509 per year and so on. The salary of a police officer varies between $59,268 and $96,222 per year. Employees are also paid incentive pay and given retirement benefits. An extensive medical benefits program is also offered, including vision, dental and life insurance plans.

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