Spring Township - Certified Police Officer

Located near Penn State University, Spring Township is a growing and historic community in Centre County and part of the State College Metropolitan Statistical Area. First settled in 1772 and incorporated in 1795, the township surrounds the county seat of Bellefonte and includes the communities of Pleasant Gap, Axemann, Coleville, and portions of Zion.

Covering approximately 27 square miles, Spring Township has experienced consistent population growth, now reaching an estimated 9,000 residents. The township blends historic character with modern development, offering a dynamic, stable, and attractive place to work, live, and raise a family.

Minimum Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and at least 21 years of age
• Must possess a valid Pennsylvania Motor Vehicle operator’s license
• Must be Act 120 certified and/or have Act 120 certification by the anticipated hire date
• Must pass a physical and psychological exam and drug screening
•  Must not have any disqualifying criminal convictions as defined by MPOETC
• Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills
• Must be able to work 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions
• Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergencies and determine proper actions
• Must pass a written exam, oral board interview, and background investigation

Job Description/General Duties:

Police Officers perform professional law enforcement duties to protect life, property, and maintain public peace. Officers enforce state and local laws; respond to emergency and non-emergency calls; conduct criminal investigations; enforce traffic laws; and engage in community-oriented policing consistent with department policy, Pennsylvania law, and the Constitution of the United States of America.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas by foot or vehicle to deter and detect crime.
• Respond to calls for service, including disturbances, crimes in progress, traffic incidents, medical emergencies, and public assistance needs.
• Conduct preliminary and follow-up investigations of crimes, traffic crashes, and other incidents.
• Prepare accurate and detailed reports, citations, criminal complaints, search warrants, affidavits, and other required documentation.
• Enforce the Pennsylvania Crimes Code, Vehicle Code, local ordinances, and department directives.
• Make arrests, serve warrants, and process prisoners in accordance with legal requirements and department procedures.
• Testify in criminal, civil, juvenile, and administrative hearings as needed.
• Conduct traffic enforcement and motor vehicle crash investigations.
• Engage in community policing activities, including public outreach, school visits, business contacts, and crime prevention programs.
• Safely operate department vehicles and equipment, including firearms, radios, tasers, computers, V-Spec, Robic, Enradd, and emergency medical equipment.
• Maintain professional conduct, physical fitness, and proficiency with issued equipment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits:

Compensation

• Starting Salary (Probationary Officer – 2026): $70,000
• 5th-Year Officer Salary (2026): $90,932.72

Benefits Package

The Spring Township Police Department offers a highly competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance Coverage
• Uniforms and equipment provided
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal time, sick leave, and holidays
• Vacation and personal time cash-out. Sick time cash-out. (eligibility requirements must be met)
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Sam's Club Membership

Police Pension Program

Officers do not currently contribute to the pension.

Full retirement eligibility:

• Age 50
• 25 years of service

Pension Benefit:

• 50% of the average W-2 earnings from the last three years of service

Testing & Evaluation Requirements

Applicants must successfully complete each phase of the selection process to remain eligible for employment.

1. Online Written Examination
   1. Applicants must take and pass an online written exam.
   2. A minimum overall score of 70% is required to advance.
2. Oral Board Interview
   1. Applicants who pass the written exam will participate in an oral board interview conducted by a select panel.
   2. Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 80% on the oral board.
3. Combined Score Requirement
   1. To progress to the next phase of the hiring process, applicants must attain a combined average score of 80% between the written exam and the oral board interview.

Equal Opportunity & Veterans’ Preference Statement

The Spring Township Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. All hiring decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and the operational needs of the department.

In accordance with applicable Pennsylvania law for Class 2 Townships, qualified veterans will be given hiring preference. To receive veterans' preference, applicants must submit a DD214 (Member-4 copy or equivalent showing character of discharge) with their application.
Failure to submit the required DD214 at the time of application will result in no veterans’ preference being applied.