Springfield, IL – The Illinois State Police (ISP) has announced an increase in starting salaries to over $90,000 for new troopers, aiming to attract top-quality candidates to its ranks. Amid a tight labor market, this enhancement in pay and benefits is designed to keep the ISP competitive and appealing to individuals committed to public service and safety.
According to the announcement, Governor JB Pritzker expressed his administration’s respect and support for law enforcement through this initiative, underscoring the importance of the roles these officers play in community safety. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly highlighted the agency’s dedication to maintaining high standards of integrity and service, emphasizing that the compensation reflects the value of the troopers’ critical work.
New troopers will see this increased compensation package starting July 1, 2024, after graduating from the Illinois State Police Academy. In addition to raising the pay, ISP has extended the application deadline to May 1, 2024, to allow more candidates to apply. Prospective applicants must meet specific criteria, including age and educational requirements, and cannot have been convicted of a felony. Different pathways to qualification include higher education, military service, or prior law enforcement experience, with detailed conditions outlined for each option.
This move by the ISP to enhance compensation and modify application requirements demonstrates a strategic approach to addressing the challenges of recruiting in the law enforcement field, ensuring the agency continues to attract dedicated individuals ready to serve Illinois’ diverse communities. For further details on applying, interested parties can visit the ISP Merit Board website or contact the ISP Recruitment team directly.
