Join
the Independence Police DepartmentAnswer the Call
The Independence Police Department is actively recruiting dedicated men and women who are ready to serve their community with honor, integrity, and courage. Join a department with over 140 years of history and a reputation for excellence.
Why Choose IPD?
We offer competitive compensation, outstanding benefits, and unlimited career growth opportunities.
Starting
salary ranges from $52,000 to $62,000 depending on experience and education, with annual step increases.Full Health Full Health &
amp; Dental
amp; DentalComprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for officers and their families with low out-of-pocket costs.Pension
Plan (LAGERS)Miss
ouri LAGERS retirement system provides lifetime pension benefits. Fully vested after 5 years of service.Paid Training Academy
Recruits receive full pay and benefits while attending the police academy. All training costs are covered by IPD.Take-Home Vehicle
ProgramQual
ified officers are assigned take-home patrol vehicles for use within city limits, saving on personal fuel and wear.Tuition Reimburs
ementUp to
$5,000 annually in tuition reimbursement for approved degree programs and advanced certifications.Specialty Unit
OpportunitiesCareer
paths include SWAT, K-9, Investigations, Traffic, Training, Community Services, and more.Promotion From Within
IPD promotes from within, offering clear career advancement paths to Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and beyond.
Paid Time
OffGenerous vacation
, sick leave, and holiday schedules. Officers accrue PTO from day one of employment.Wellness Program
On-site fitness facilities, wellness incentives, and access to mental health and peer support resources.Salary & Compensation
IPD offers competitive compensation with annual step increases and education incentives.
| Rank | / PositionStarting Salary | 5 | -Year10-Year | Top | Step
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer Recruit (Academy) | $52,000 | —> | —> | —> |
| Police Officer | $58,000 | $65,000 | $74,000 | $82,000 |
| Police Officer w/ Bachelor's | $60,000 | $67,500 | $77,000 | $86,000 |
| Sergeant | $72,000 | $79,000 | $88,000 | $96,000 |
| Lieutenant> | $85,000 | $93,000 | $102,000 | $112,000 |
| Captain | $98,000 | $107,000 | $118,000 | $128,000 |
Salaries shown do not include overtime, shift differential, specialty pay, or education incentives. Lateral transfers credited for experience.
Hiring Process
Our comprehensive selection process ensures we hire the best candidates to serve Independence.
Apply Online
Submit your application and required documents through our online portal.Written Exam
Complete the POST entrance exam assessing reading, writing, and reasoning skills.Physical Ag
ilityPass the physical fitness
test including push-ups, sit-ups, 1.5-mile run, and obstacle course.Oral Interview
Participate in a structured panel interview with IPD command staff.Background Check
Com
prehensive background investigation including criminal history, employment, and references.Medical Medical
& Psychological
amp; PsychologicalComplete medical examination, drug screening, and psychological evaluation.Conditional Offer
Receive a conditional offer of employment pending final review and academy placement.Minimum Requirements
- Must be a United States citizen
- Must be at least 21 years of age at time of appointment
- High school diploma or GED required; college degree preferred
- Valid Missouri driver's license (or ability to obtain upon hire)
- No felony convictions; must pass comprehensive background check
- Must meet physical fitness standards and pass medical examination
- Must reside within 30 miles of Independence city limits within 6 months of hire
- Missouri POST Class A certification (academy graduates) or ability to obtain through IPD-sponsored academy
Lateral transfer officers from other Missouri-certified agencies are encouraged to apply. Years of service may apply toward salary step and vacation accrual.
Current Open Positions
Begin
your career in law enforcement with IPD. No prior experience required. We will sponsor you through the police academy with full pay and benefits. Applicants must meet all minimum requirements.- Starting Salary: $52,000 (academy) / $58,000 (upon graduation)
- Full Benefits Day 1
- Academy Sponsorship Available
Police Officer —
Lateral TransferExperienced
Missouri POST-certified officers are encouraged to apply. Lateral pay matching for years of experience. Accelerated hiring process for certified candidates.- Salary: $58,000–$74,000 based on experience
- Vacation Credit for Prior Service
- Expedited Background Process
Public Safety
Dispatcher (911)Join
our communications team as a 911 dispatcher. Critical role connecting citizens in need with police, fire, and EMS response. No prior dispatch experience required — we provide paid training.- Starting Salary: $42,000
- Shift Differential Pay Available
- Full Benefits Package
Records Clerk — Civilian Position
Support the department's operations through records management, data entry, public records requests, and administrative support for the Records & Communications Division.- Salary: $35,000–$42,000 DOE
- Monday–Friday Day Shift
- High School Diploma Required
Don't See the Right Position?
Submit a general application or contact our recruiting team to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Contact Recruiting