MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion Police Department (MPD) is calling for dedicated individuals to join their ranks, with the application process closing on February 22.

In 2023, the MPD handled nearly 33,000 calls for service, demonstrating their commitment to the community 24/7. Officers pride themselves on proactive patrol, conducting nearly 5,000 traffic stops, serving arrest warrants, and actively patrolling high crime areas.

The department offers competitive compensation, with top-out pay exceeding $87,000 a year, depending on years of service and shift assignment. Entry-level employees, referred to as ‘A’ employees, are new hires who have not yet attended the Police Academy. The MPD not only covers academy costs but also provides an hourly rate of $25.68. Upon successful completion of the academy, officers move to the Field Training Officer (FTO) process, and their pay rate increases to $31.97. The current top-out rate, without longevity and shift differential, is $40.13, projected to increase to $42.99 an hour by the end of the contract in 2026.

The MPD recognizes prior law enforcement experience through lateral transfers, allowing new hires to start at a higher pay rate and vacation accrual rate.

The department also offers several opportunities for career advancement and specialization, including the Special Response Team, K9 unit, Hostage Negotiations Team, School Resource Officers, Investigations/MARMET, Drone Operator, and promotions to higher ranks.

Additional benefits include a tuition reimbursement program, acceptance of visible tattoos and facial hair (subject to appropriateness), and flexible work schedules. Patrol officers work four 10-hour shifts, followed by three days off, providing an extra 52 days off each year compared to five 8-hour shifts. Officers can accrue up to 480 hours of compensatory time, 1,100 hours of vacation, and four years’ worth of holiday time. Sick time accrual is also provided each pay period.

For more information or to start the application process, visit the Marion Police Department website. If you have any questions, you can reach out to one of their recruiters