What Is Seattle Police Pay? Salary Guide

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is one of the largest and most respected law enforcement agencies in the Pacific Northwest. As a major city, Seattle attracts a diverse range of applicants who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement. One of the key factors that potential recruits consider when applying to the SPD is the salary and benefits package. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the Seattle police pay scale, including the average salary, pay ranges, and benefits.

Average Salary for Seattle Police Officers

The average salary for a police officer in the Seattle Police Department is around 83,000 per year, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, this number can vary depending on the officer's level of experience, rank, and specialized skills. For example, a rookie police officer with no prior experience can expect to start at a salary of around 65,000 per year, while a seasoned officer with 10 or more years of experience can earn upwards of $110,000 per year.

Seattle Police Pay Scale

The Seattle Police Department has a complex pay scale that takes into account an officer’s level of experience, rank, and specialized skills. The pay scale is divided into several steps, with each step representing a specific salary range. The current pay scale for the SPD is as follows:

• Step 1: $65,136 per year (rookie officers with no prior experience)
• Step 2: $70,452 per year (officers with 1-2 years of experience)
• Step 3: $76,008 per year (officers with 2-5 years of experience)
• Step 4: $82,872 per year (officers with 5-10 years of experience)
• Step 5: $91,176 per year (officers with 10-15 years of experience)
• Step 6: $101,736 per year (officers with 15-20 years of experience)
• Step 7: $114,012 per year (officers with 20 or more years of experience)

Specialized Pay and Incentives

In addition to the base salary, the Seattle Police Department offers a range of specialized pay and incentives to recognize officers’ specialized skills and experience. These include:

• Hazardous duty pay: $2,500 per year for officers who work in high-risk specialties such as SWAT or K-9.
• Bilingual pay: $1,500 per year for officers who are fluent in a second language.
• Education incentives: up to $5,000 per year for officers who have a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Specialty pay: up to $10,000 per year for officers who work in specialized units such as homicide or narcotics.

Benefits Package

The Seattle Police Department offers a comprehensive benefits package to its officers, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance: officers and their families are eligible for a range of health insurance plans.
• Paid time off: officers accrue paid vacation and sick leave, as well as 11 paid holidays per year.
• Retirement plan: the SPD offers a comprehensive retirement plan with a pension and 401(k) matching contributions.
• Life insurance: officers are eligible for life insurance coverage, with premiums paid by the city.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Seattle police pay scale is competitive with other major cities in the United States. While the average salary for a police officer in Seattle is around 83,000 per year, officers can earn upwards of 110,000 per year with experience and specialized skills. The SPD offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan. If you’re considering a career in law enforcement, the Seattle Police Department is definitely worth considering.