Employment Opportunities

Smithville police Department (1)


Our Mission Statement

"The mission of the Smithville Police Department is to build partnerships through innovation, professionalism, and accountability to foster a safer community for all."

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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.

Lateral Transfers Wanted

We are actively seeking experienced lateral transfers who want to join a professional department in a supportive community.

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 experience

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 summer

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

Benefit Overview

Professional Development

Smithville Police Department believes in investing in its people. Officers have opportunities for continued training and professional development in a department that values growth, learning, and long-term success.

Whether you are starting your career or joining as a lateral transfer, you will be part of a team that supports professional improvement and future advancement.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment
  • High school diploma or GED required

Hiring Process Graphic - Copy

Hiring Standards

Applicants may be automatically disqualified for reasons including, but not limited to, the following:

  • Any felony conviction
  • Any conviction for domestic violence
  • False statements, deception, or fraud during the hiring process
  • Active order of protection
  • No valid driver’s license
  • Recent serious driving violations, including DUI, DWI, hit and run, multiple at-fault crashes, or recent suspension or revocation of driving privileges
  • Current probation, parole, or diversion status, including deferred adjudication
  • Military discharge other than honorable
  • Failure to complete required hiring documents or steps in the hiring process
  • Employment circumstances that would violate the City’s nepotism policy
  • Must be able to obtain and keep a valid MO POST License

Additional Background Considerations

The following may be considered during the background investigation and overall hiring review:

  • Failure to disclose relevant information during the hiring process
  • Certain misdemeanor convictions or charges reduced from felonies
  • Recent or concerning drug use history
  • Unacceptable work, school, military, or personal history
  • Recent suspension or termination from employment
  • A pattern of poor financial responsibility

Additional standards and disqualifying factors may be reviewed during the background investigation and hiring process.

Lateral Transfers Encouraged

Smithville Police Department is actively seeking experienced lateral transfers who are looking for competitive pay, strong benefits, updated equipment, and a supportive community.

Qualified lateral officers may receive credit for prior experience and earn up to $84,810 annually. If you are looking for a department where your experience is valued and where you can continue to grow professionally, Smithville may be the right fit.

Apply Now!

If you are ready to serve in a community that supports its police department and join a team that values professionalism, wellness, and development, we encourage you to apply.

For more information about employment opportunities with the Smithville Police Department, please contact us or submit your application today.

The City of Smithville, MO is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, race, color, creed, mental or physical disability, religion, national origin, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, source of income, or any other status protected by local, state, or federal law, in the admission or access to, or employment in, its programs or activities.