UAPD Touts Benefits, Pay In Effort To Fill Officer Openings

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama Police Department is highlighting its benefits and competitive pay as the department looks to fill several openings for police officers.

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UAPD Chief of Police John Hooks said police officers are tasked with performing one of the most important and challenging jobs a person can do, and yet, they are often overworked and underpaid.

“At UAPD, we are blessed to have a work environment that allows us to get to know and partner with our community members while maintaining a safe and secure environment on campus,” he said. “I want to help our officers grow and develop personally and professionally, which only makes us stronger as an institution and a police department.”

The need to fill positions prompted UAPD to offer what it refers to as "the best police officer pay in West Alabama" — with a starting salary of $65,200 for those with no prior experience and $71,240 for officers who are Alabama Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission (APOSTC) certified with two years of law enforcement experience.

UAPD said it also offers lateral transfer pay and a $7,500 recruitment incentive or signing bonus.

New officers will also receive a $4,000 retention incentive, in addition to $100 for each year of service, provided every three years, to reward commitment and longevity.

On the benefits side, UAPD says it offers insurance coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, 15 paid holidays, including the officer’s birthday, and progressive appearance and grooming standards.

UAPD also touts other incentives such as tuition benefits for officers and their dependents, access to wellness and work-life resources, and state retirement through the Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama.

“We are looking for people with good character, a positive attitude, and the commitment to protect and serve our community,” Hooks said. “I sincerely hope anyone interested will apply and come work with our team at UAPD.”

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