Police Officer

Rockford Park District Police Department

Contact Information

Address:

Website:

• rockfordparkdistrict.org

Phone:

• 815-987-8796

Email:

• rpdpolicerecruitment@rockfordparkdistrict.org

Application Deadline:

• 07/01/26

Salary:

• $33.41 - $48.08/hour

  Why Join Rockford Park District Police?

  • Competitive starting pay $33.41/hour
  • IMRF Pension Retirement System
  • Lateral transfer opportunities with wage matching up to 7 years experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid vacation, holidays, personal leave, and sick time
  • Deferred compensation (457b) retirement savings
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Unique perks including park district program access, golf memberships, and facility passes

Sworn:

• 12

Population:

• 150,000

Position Details

Full-Time Sworn Law Enforcement

Protect the Parks. Serve the Community.

The Rockford Park District Police Department is seeking dedicated, community-oriented officers to help ensure that residents and visitors can safely enjoy one of the nation's leading urban park systems. Our officers patrol over 4,000 acres of parks, recreation facilities, trails, and special events, providing professional law enforcement services in a unique and community-focused environment.

If you are passionate about public service and want to make a visible impact in the community, we encourage you to apply.

What You'll Do:

Rockford Park District Police Officers provide full-service law enforcement while supporting a safe and welcoming environment across park district properties.

Key responsibilities include:

• Patrol parks, recreation facilities, trails, and district properties to deter crime and ensure public safety
• Enforce local, state, and federal laws, including the Illinois Vehicle Code
• Respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service
• Conduct criminal and non-criminal investigations
• Provide security and police presence at park district events and programs
• Respond to alarms and perform building security checks
• Work collaboratively with local law enforcement agencies and community partners
• Prepare police reports, citations, and court documentation
• Appear in court as required
• Engage with park visitors and community members to promote a safe and welcoming park system 

Minimum Requirements:

Applicants must:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Be under age 35 unless qualifying under Illinois law for prior law enforcement service
• Be a United States citizen
• Possess a valid driver's license
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Have no felony convictions or disqualifying misdemeanor convictions
• Successfully pass the Illinois P.O.W.E.R. Test
• Successfully complete a comprehensive medical and background examination
• Reside within 50 miles of Rockford, Illinois 

Lateral Transfer Opportunities:

Experienced officers may qualify for lateral entry.

Eligible candidates must:

• Have at least two (2) years of full-time sworn law enforcement experience
• Be currently employed as a municipal police officer, Illinois State Trooper, or County Sheriff's Deputy (patrol/road division) 

Qualified lateral candidates may receive wage matching up to 7 years of experience.

Our Mission:

The Rockford Park District Police Department exists to help people enjoy life by deterring crime and maintaining safe parks. About the Rockford Park District The Rockford Park District is committed to being the best urban parks and recreation system in North America, providing high-quality parks, programs, and experiences that enhance the quality of life for our community.

Apply Today:

Join a department where you can serve your community, protect public spaces, and make a difference every day by applying here:

https://secure6.saashr.com/ta/6099707.careers?ShowJob=688268048

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