City of Akron Accepting Applications for New Police Officers

Akron, Ohio, March 28, 2025  — The City of Akron is accepting applications for the position of Police Academy Cadet through May 30, 2025. Starting pay is $31.53/hour and applicants may qualify for a $2,000 sign on bonus. Akron offers an in-house police academy that offers 26-week paid training. Apply today at joinakronpolice.com.   

“Becoming a police officer is among the most challenging and rewarding calls to public service,” said Mayor Shammas Malik. “We expect our officers to have a passion for public service and the residents of Akron. They are the frontline ambassadors in the neighborhoods – providing direct assistance to residents in need and keeping our community safe.  Applicants should be enthusiastic about improving the Akron community, prepared to meet the demands of an evolving and dynamic law enforcement environment, and have a public service mindset.”   

“I am looking forward to hiring another class of highly qualified and motivated Akron police officers,” said Police Chief Brian Harding. “Policing is an honorable profession and is one of the highest callings there is.  Akron is an amazing place to serve. I encourage anyone interested in helping to improve our community to call a recruiter and learn more today.”  

Candidates must meet several baseline qualifications to be eligible, including:  

• 20.5 - 45 years old by the application closing date (May 30, 2025)  

• High school diploma or GED   

• Valid driver’s license  

• United States Citizen or have a valid permanent resident card  

Candidates must pass a physical fitness test, the National Testing Network test, a polygraph examination, and a background investigation.   Final selection is contingent upon passing a medical and psychological evaluation after receiving a conditional job offer. The City of Akron also awards bonus points to those candidates who pass the written test and meet a residency requirement, have served in active duty in the armed forces of the United States for more than 180 days and were honorably discharged, and/or have completed accredited college course work.   

Compensation for an entry level police officer begins at $31.53 per hour ($65,582.40 annually) and includes a generous benefits package consisting of medical and prescription coverage, dental and vision insurance, life insurance at no cost, paid vacation time, sick leave, and paid holidays.  

For more information, please contact the City of Akron Department of Human Resources at 330- 375-2720 for details; or toll free: 1-888-588-5417 or visit www.akronohio.gov/personnel. You can also call 330-375-2643 to speak with a recruiter. 

2024 Highlights from the Akron Police Department 

• Last year, the Akron Police Department conducted two Citizen Academy Sessions, and an equal number is planned for this year.  

• Akron Police participated in or facilitated over 570 community engagement events including ward meetings, non-profit events, Safety Town, and others.  

• The department conducted a total of 5,465 Park & Walk & Talks which is a 221% increase from the prior year.  

• 44 new cadets graduated from the academy and 4 lateral hires graduated as well.  

• 34 officers were trained to be part of the Department’s Peer Support Team.  

• In October, APD installed a new police workout facility in the Harold K. Stubbs Building.