Job Description

Police Officer – City of Columbia, Missouri
Starting Pay: $60,611.20 – $73,881.60 annually ($29.14 – $35.52 per hour)
Plus: $1.00/hour shift differential for all hours worked between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM
Application Deadline: January 15, 2026

The City of Columbia, Missouri is seeking highly motivated, dependable, and community-minded individuals to join our Police Department. As a Columbia Police Officer, you will serve and protect citizens, prevent and investigate crime, and uphold the highest standards of public safety and professionalism.

Salary and Lateral Entry Program

• POST Certified Officers: Starting at $60,611.20 annually ($29.14/hour), up to $73,881.60 annually ($35.52/hour).

• Shift Differential: $1.00/hour for all hours worked between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM.

• Lateral Entry Pay: Officers with full-time law enforcement or qualifying military police experience may enter the pay plan based on years of service (up to 10 years). Final determination made by the Police Chief or designee.

• Not POST Certified? Academy tuition is fully paid . While attending, you’ll earn $43,576 annually ($20.95/hour) plus shift differential. Upon certification, your pay increases to $60,611 annually ($29.14/hour).

Job Summary

Police Officers enforce laws and ordinances, respond to calls for service, investigate crimes, and work proactively to build trust within the community. Officers patrol assigned areas, provide court testimony, and participate in ongoing professional development and training.

Key Responsibilities

• Enforce laws and ordinances to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

• Patrol assigned areas, respond to emergencies, and investigate crimes and accidents.

• Collect and preserve evidence; prepare accurate and detailed reports.

• Testify in court and participate in ongoing training and certification.

• Build partnerships with community members and organizations.

• Maintain professionalism, composure, and integrity in all situations.

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Must maintain a residence within a 50-mile radius of the Columbia Police Department (600 E. Walnut St.) within 180 days of hire.

• Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Must pass required background checks, drug testing, medical exam, and online entrance testing.

Preferred:

• Associate’s degree or higher in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Sociology, or related field.

• Missouri POST Certification or eligibility to attend a POST academy.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of federal, state, and local laws and ordinances.

• Strong communication, observation, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.

• Skilled in report writing, data collection, and analysis.

• Commitment to ethical conduct and public service.

Physical and Work Environment

• Work may involve exposure to hostile or irate individuals, extreme temperatures, noise, and outdoor elements.

• Must be able to exert up to 100 lbs. occasionally and meet ongoing physical fitness standards.

• Requires mental and physical readiness to respond to emergencies and maintain public safety.

Schedule

• 12-hour shifts , determined by seniority.

• Includes nights, weekends, and holidays.

Selection Process

An online police officer test is required for all applicants.
After submitting your application and resume:

• You will receive an email from hr@como.gov with instructions.

• A separate email from testgenius.com will include your test link.

• Testing must be completed by 11:59 PM CST on January 15, 2026.

• Important: Use a laptop or desktop computer. Do not use a cellphone, tablet, or Chromebook.

• Applicants achieving a passing score will be notified of next steps in the hiring process.

Benefits

As a City of Columbia employee, you’ll receive one of the best benefits packages in the state , including:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid vacation and sick leave

• Retirement and pension plan

• Paid training and professional development

How to Apply

Apply online at
For assistance, call 573.874.CITY (2489) or TTY: 711 (MO Relay)

Equal Opportunity Statement

The City of Columbia is a Merit, Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer – Male/Female.
Pre-employment drug testing is required .
The City of Columbia participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program.

Salary/Compensation: $60,611 - $73,882 per year

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