Skip to main content

You invest in your career.
We invest in you.

Salary & Benefits

Beyond competitive salaries and benefits, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD)provides officers with leadership opportunities and comprehensive training to increase their earning potential. CMPD invests in its recruits, and pays officers-in-training a full-time salary while they attend the academy. With 13 different divisions and specialized positions, CMPD offers exceptional room for growth.

Learn more about our minimum standards, frequently asked questions and application process.

Pay

  • Entry-level pay starts at $59,502, officers earn up to $113,626.
  • Pay incentive for associate (+5%, $62,477) and bachelor’s (+10%, $65,452) degree.
  • Weekly paycheck.

PAID TIME OFF

  • 20 to 30 vacation days per year.
  • 12 sick days per year.
  • 2 weeks leave for annual training for reservists/National Guard.
  • 6 weeks paid parental leave.

PAY INCENTIVE

  • 5% pay incentive for proficiency in one of 15 different languages.
  • 5% pay incentive for police training officer status.
  • 5% pay incentive for qualifying military experience.
  • 2.5% shift differential pay incentive for officers permanently assigned to second or third shift.
  • $2,500 one-time payment (paid in two installments) for officers and sergeants who live within the CMPD jurisdiction for at least six (6) continuous months.
  • The step plan provides for 5% annual step increases as well as a 10% step increase at the end of an officer’s 3rd year.
  • $1,300 in annual employer contributions to a Retiree Health Reimbursement Plan.
  • Officers and Sergeants who live within the CMPD jurisdiction and meet annual work performance expectations are eligible to participate in the take-home car program.
  • Uniforms and equipment provided.

EDUCATION

BENEFITS

  • Veterans may be eligible to receive VA benefits and supplements.
  • Basic life insurance for all regular employees that is equal to two times base earnings (rounded to the next higher $1,000, up to $500,000).
  • Various medical benefit plans to choose from, including health savings accounts, which can be used for future retiree medical expenses.
  • 401(k) — 5% of salary contributed for sworn personnel.
  • Eligible for full retirement benefits from the city and state after 30 years of credible service or at age 55. Sworn employees contribute 6% to Local Government Employees’ Retirement System.
View All Open Positions