Crime & Safety
DuPage County, IL Police Hiring: Starting Pay Tops $80K
WHEATON, IL — A suburban Chicago police department is accepting applications for new officers, offering a starting salary of $80,028, paid training opportunities and an extensive benefits package. Job
By Miles Carter · 2026-10-17T11:32:32.450Z
WHEATON, IL — A suburban Chicago police department is accepting applications for new officers, offering a starting salary of $80,028, paid training opportunities and an extensive benefits package. Job seekers interested in law enforcement careers have until November to complete the required testing and application process.
According to an employment posting published by the City of Wheaton, the Wheaton Police Department is recruiting entry level police officers to serve approximately 54,000 residents in DuPage County, west of Chicago.
The advertised starting salary is $80,028 annually , although the posting notes that the collective bargaining agreement is currently under renegotiation.
Salary and Benefits
The department's advertised benefits include a 457 b retirement savings plan, $50,000 in city paid life insurance, 80 hours of vacation, 10 paid holidays and extensive training opportunities.
Additional benefits include health insurance options, dental and vision coverage, wellness programs, tuition related professional development opportunities and employee assistance services.
The department also provides duty weapons and required equipment, according to the listing.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants generally must be between 20 and 35 years old at the application deadline, unless an exemption applies under Illinois law.
Candidates must also meet several qualifications, including:
U.S. citizenship or legal authorization to work in the United States, as specified in the posting. A bachelor's degree or an applicable educational waiver. A valid driver's license. Corrected vision of 20/20. Ability to pass the POWER physical fitness test at the time of hiring. Certain military service and college credit qualifications may satisfy the educational waiver requirements.
Two Important November Deadlines
Applicants must complete the National Testing Network's Public Safety Self Assessment and required examination by Friday, November 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
Candidates who achieve a passing score will receive instructions from the city to complete the application and submit supporting documentation.
The final application and document upload deadline is Friday, November 27, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
The department says invitations will be sent weekly to applicants who achieve passing examination scores.
Interested candidates can review the official recruitment posting through the City of Wheaton's employment website.