Certified
Job Prerequisites:
Important Links:
Job Announcement:
Bellingham Police Department
Now Accepting Applications for Entry Level and Certified Police Officers
The Bellingham Police Department offers a rare combination of professional opportunity, community support, and modern resources. Officers benefit from a forward-thinking agency and a community that genuinely values and supports its police force.
Bellingham provides a diverse range of policing experiences across residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, retail districts, and community spaces—without the overwhelming call volume of larger cities. Officers have the time and support to conduct thorough investigations, engage in proactive policing, and build meaningful relationships with residents, businesses, and schools.
The department maintains a modern fleet, updated technology, and continues to invest in equipment that enhances safety and efficiency. Bellingham is also progressing through the Massachusetts Police Accreditation process, ensuring policies, training, and operations meet the highest professional standards.
What truly sets Bellingham apart is its culture. Leadership is supportive, approachable, and committed to officer wellness and career development. Officers are encouraged to pursue specialized training and take on new responsibilities, with opportunities in areas such as community engagement, school resource work, investigations, field training, and planned expansion into drone and K9 roles.
For those seeking a department where they will be supported, valued, and able to make a meaningful impact, Bellingham PD stands out as an exceptional place to build a rewarding law enforcement career.
Minimum Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must have a valid driver’s license
- Must have a High School diploma or GED (post-secondary education or degree preferred but not required).
- Must have a clean criminal record — no felony convictions, no disqualifying misdemeanors
- Must have good moral character, integrity, and judgement, including passing background investigation (criminal history, credit check, prior employment, social media, references)
- Must be able to pass all required testing and screening, including:
- Physical abilities/fitness assessment
- Psychological evaluation
- Medical/physical exam with drug testing
- Must be able to meet all physical fitness and health standards necessary for the job
- Must be able to obtain and maintain any required certifications or licenses (e.g. firearms license, POST certification)
- Must agree to work shift assignments (days, nights, weekends, holidays) as needed
Job Description/General Duties:
A Police Officer with the Bellingham Police Department is responsible for protecting life and property, preserving public safety, and fostering strong community relationships. Officers respond to emergency and non-emergency calls, conduct proactive patrols, investigate crimes and motor vehicle incidents, enforce state laws and local bylaws, and provide compassionate, professional service to residents, businesses, and visitors.
The role requires sound judgment, integrity, and the ability to communicate and problem-solve effectively. Officers must be capable of working independently and as part of a team in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This position involves shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, and requires maintaining the physical fitness and skills necessary to perform essential law enforcement duties.
See full job description under important links.
Benefits:
- Education incentive (for Associate’s 10%, Bachelor’s 20%, or Master’s degree 25%) increasing base salary.
- 6% Shift differential for night / evening assignments.
- Paid holidays (14), vacation (10-25), sick leave, personal time (3/yr), and other leave benefits.
- Health insurance and voluntary benefits available with 80% of health insurance premiums paid by the Town.
- Opportunities for overtime, paid details (currently $72/hr.), and specialty assignments for additional compensation.
- Uniform & equipment allowance (or department-provided gear), training, and continued professional development.
Hiring Process:
- Written Examination (MCOPA online written exam with a passing score of 70 or above)
- Structured oral board interview
- Conditional offer of employment
- Extensive background investigation including employment history, criminal record, driving history, financial review, and social media screening
- Physical fitness evaluation (PAT) meeting statewide standards
- Medical exam and drug screening in compliance with MGL and POST requirements
- Psychological suitability exam
- Attendance and successful completion of a full-time Massachusetts POST-approved police academy (unless already certified)
Equal Opportunity Statement:
The Bellingham Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to a fair, merit-based hiring process that does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected status. Hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, skills, and demonstrated suitability for the position.
Please direct questions regarding this position to sdaigle@bellinghamma.org
About Public Safety Jobs
Jobs close at 11:59 PM (Eastern) on the deadline date specified, or when the position capacity has been met, or unless otherwise specified in the announcement. If the deadline date is not specified in the announcement, the agency has sole discretion on setting the deadline and jobs may close without notice. It is the applicant's responsibility to thoroughly read and understand the deadline requirements and capacity limits as outlined by the agency.
Applicants are responsible for checking their email and logging into their PublicSafetyApp account to monitor for updates.