Several University of Alabama Police Department officers posing in front of the police station

Stellar Benefits Await New UAPD Officers

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama Police Department is seeking officers looking for a team-oriented career that provides the highest level of training for both new and experienced police officers, along with an impressive benefits package. 

“So often in contemporary society, 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,” said UAPD Chief of Police John Hooks.

That’s why UAPD is offering the best police officer pay in West Alabama — 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 certified with two years of law enforcement experience. UAPD also offers lateral transfer pay and a $7,500 recruitment incentive, often referred to as a signing bonus. In addition, officers will receive a $4,000 retention incentive and an additional $100 for each year of service, provided every three years, to reward commitment and longevity. 

“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,” said Hooks. “I want to help our officers grow and develop personally and professionally, which only makes us stronger as an institution and a police department.” 

A few benefits include insurance coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, 15 paid holidays, including the officer’s birthday, and progressive appearance and grooming standards. 

Additional benefits that distinguish UAPD from other departments include tuition benefits for officers and their dependents, access to wellness and work-life resources, and state retirement through the Teachers’ Retirement System of Alabama. 

UAPD offers many specialized unit opportunities including cross training and mentoring. An officer’s work schedule is four days on with 10-hour shifts and three set off days. Officers are provided new equipment that is already purchased, and replacement equipment is easily attainable. 

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

The mission of UAPD is to provide a safe and secure environment for all members of the UA community to live, learn, work and play while supporting the institutional mission, vision and values.

For more information and to apply, visit police.ua.edu/recruit.


The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides an inclusive, forward-thinking environment and nearly 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.

Contact

Shane Dorrill, UA Public Safety, shane.dorrill@ua.edu, 205-348-8319