Police Officer Careers
Police Officers are sworn law enforcement professionals responsible for protecting the campus communities served by UPD. Officers perform patrol functions, respond to calls for service, investigate incidents, and support campus safety through proactive engagement.
A Day in the Life of a UPD Officer
- Patrol campus properties and facilities
- Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls
- Investigate incidents and complete reports
- Assist students, faculty, staff, and visitors
- Participate in safety initiatives and community engagement
- Work with campus partners to resolve issues
Benefits That Support Your Future
Earn $69,279 – $123,651 with opportunities for overtime, specialty assignments, and career advancement across multiple divisions.
Medical, dental, vision, and wellness benefits designed to support you and your family.
Continue your education with tuition assistance.
Grow your career through opportunities in investigations, motors, K9, field training, problem solving, community outreach, and more.
Serve in a dynamic university setting focused on safety, education, prevention, and community engagement.
Paid time off, sick leave, holidays, wellness support, and schedules designed to help maintain balance on and off duty.
Access continued training, leadership development, certifications, and opportunities to expand your skills throughout your career.
Recruits receive their regular salary beginning on the first day of the six-month police academy while gaining hands-on training and experience.
Build long-term financial security through Nevada PERS retirement benefits.
Hiring Process
Minimum Qualifications
- At least 21 years old by academy graduation
- U.S. citizen or eligible legal permanent resident
- Valid Nevada driver’s license
- High school diploma or GED
- Successfully complete background, medical, and psychological evaluations
Police Offer FAQs
Applications for Police Officer positions are submitted through Workday. Applicants can search for open University Police Department positions and submit their application using the link below.
The hiring process typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the applicant’s readiness and the schedule of the next available police academy.
Qualified applicants are usually contacted within two weeks after submitting their application to schedule testing and interviews.
Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED
- At least 21 years old by academy graduation
- U.S. citizen or eligible legal permanent resident
- Valid Nevada driver’s license
While not required, the following may strengthen an application:
- College coursework or degree in a related field
- Prior law enforcement or military experience
- CPR or First Aid certification
- Multilingual abilities
- Strong customer service experience
- Leadership or supervisory experience
Yes. POST-certified officers may be eligible for lateral transfer and may bypass the academy and physical agility testing with approval from the Chief of Police.
The process for non-POST-certified applicants generally includes:
- Medical and psychological evaluations
- Online application submission
- Physical fitness test (Nevada POST Category I standards)
- Written exam
- Panel interview
- Chief of Police interview
- Background investigation
The background investigation may include:
- Personal history statement review
- Employment and reference checks
- Criminal and driving history review
- Voice Stress Analysis (VSA)
Applicants participate in:
Panel Interview
Conducted by three department members and typically lasts 15–30 minutes.
Chief’s Interview
Focuses on alignment with department culture, values, and expectations.
Topics may include:
- Personal background
- Campus safety awareness
- Problem-solving ability
- Integrity and professionalism
Training depends on certification status.
Non-POST-Certified Recruits
- Attend a Nevada POST-certified police academy
- Complete a four-phase Field Training Officer (FTO) program, each phase lasting approximately four weeks.
POST-Certified Officers
- Complete an 8-week Field Training Program.
The University Police Department offers multiple career paths:
Officer I Officer II Field Training Officer Detective Sergeant Lieutenant
Officers may also serve in specialized assignments such as:
- Detectives
- K9 Unit
- Motors Unit
- Problem Solving Unit
Salary ranges are listed in the official job postings and may vary based on experience or prior service.
Benefits may include:
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Tuition assistance (varies by institution)
Benefits are provided through the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE).
Due to the volume of applications, the department is unable to provide individual feedback to applicants who are not selected.
Shift Times
Day Shift: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Night Shift: 7:00 PM – 7:00 AM
Schedule Rotation
Sunday – Tuesday + every other Wednesday
or
Thursday – Saturday + every other Wednesday
Officers also work one 8-hour shift per week to maintain a 40-hour average.