NYPD OFFICERS
Take Your Career To The Next Level In Syracuse
Register now for the Syracuse Police Department recruitment event and discover career growth, a better cost of living, and more time for your family.
Take Your Career Further
Your Experience, Recognized
Syracuse Police Department recognizes your NYPD experience, counting it toward our 20-year retirement plan. Join a department that honors your expertise, offers opportunities for advancement, and supports a balanced, fulfilling career.
$20,000 Hiring Bonus for Lateral Transfers
Make the move and be rewarded. Experienced officers are eligible for exclusive benefits when transferring.
Exceptional Benefits Package
Competitive Salary Range ($62k - $93k)
Education, Military, & Bilingual Financial Incentives
4/3 - 4/4 10hr shifts
120-200 hours of paid vacation
Holiday pay for 13 days
Retirement at 20 years @ 50% Salary
Medical Benefits after retirement
Advance Your Career, Lead the Way
Career Growth & Opportunities
The Syracuse Police Department, with over 385 sworn officers, provides exceptional opportunities to advance your career and develop specialized skills. Whether you’re looking to build expertise in a particular area or take on leadership roles, our department offers diverse career paths and clear opportunities for growth.
Specialized Units
Our department features several specialized units, including:
- Criminal Investigations Division
- Special Investigations Division (NARCO)
- K-9 Unit
- Crime Scene Unit
- Homicide Unit
- Traffic Division
- Training and Education Division
- Armament Division
- School Resource Officers
Collateral Responsibilities
Officers can also engage in collateral responsibilities, such as:- SWAT Team
- Bomb Squad
- Crisis Response/Hostage Negotiation
- Public Order Unit
Leadership Opportunities
For those seeking leadership roles, the Syracuse Police Department offers clear paths to progress through the ranks, including:- Sergeant
- Lieutenant
- Captain
- Chief
Cost of Living: Syracuse
vs. New York City
Move to Syracuse and keep more of what you earn. Just 4 hours from NYC, Syracuse offers affordable living, strong communities, and rewarding career opportunities.
Save More
Syracuse’s cost of living is 41.7% lower than NYC, giving you financial freedom to focus on what matters most.
Own for Less
Median home prices in Syracuse are approximately $195,232, over 70% less than in NYC.
Rent Smarter
Average rent in Syracuse is just $1,218, saving you up to 74% compared to NYC.
Time Well Spent
Enjoy an average 20-minute commute, giving you more time for family and personal priorities.
Maximize Your Income
Lower taxes and everyday expenses mean more of your paycheck stays in your pocket.
Simplify Living
Syracuse offers affordable living with excellent schools, outdoor recreation, and a welcoming community.
Education and Recreation
Living and working in Syracuse means access to excellent schools, endless recreation, and exceptional career opportunities. Syracuse offers the perfect mix of professional growth and personal fulfillment, all in a vibrant, supportive community.
Top Schools, Bright Futures
Education for All Ages
Syracuse offers a variety of educational opportunities for families and individuals alike, ensuring access to quality learning at every level.
- Public and Private Schools: Excellent public schools and private options with strong academic programs and extracurricular activities.
- Higher Education:
- Syracuse University: A world-renowned institution offering diverse programs and vibrant community events.
- Le Moyne College: A top-tier private college focused on academic and professional excellence.
- Continuing Education: Opportunities for adult learners through nearby community colleges and SUNY schools.
Explore, Dine, and Unwind
Endless Recreation
Syracuse is a hub for outdoor adventures and vibrant local culture. Whether hiking in the Adirondacks, relaxing by one of the many lakes, or exploring nearby parks, there’s always something to enjoy. When it’s time to unwind, Syracuse offers:
- Hiking, skiing, and camping in the Adirondacks and surrounding areas.
- Relaxing at Green Lakes State Park or Onondaga Lake Park.
- Year-round festivals and events that bring the community together.
- Local restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, perfect for food lovers seeking variety.
Lateral Transfer Requirements
To be considered for a lateral transfer to the Syracuse Police Department, you must meet the following requirements:
- Employment: You must be currently employed full-time as a Police Officer in New York State.
- Hiring: You must have been hired from a NYS Civil Service List.
- Training: You must have successfully completed the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Basic Academy.
- Probationary Period: You must have successfully completed the probationary period with your current agency.
It’s important to note that lateral transfers are not subject to residency requirements. If you meet these requirements and are interested in joining the Syracuse Police Department as a lateral candidate, please email us directly at: recruitment@syracusepolice.org
Syracuse Police Officers are more than just protectors – they're community builders
Find Your Calling In The Syracuse Police Force
Meet Our Officers
Get to know the men and women of the Syracuse Police Department and learn about their experiences serving and protecting our city.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Discover quick answers to frequently asked questions below, and don’t hesitate to contact your recruiter for further information.
What are the basic hiring requirements?
To be considered for a position as a Syracuse Police Officer, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Age: You must be between the ages of 19.5 years old and under 35 years old to qualify to take the Police Civil Service Exam.
- Education: You must have a High School Diploma or GED.
- Citizenship: At the time of appointment you must be a United States citizen.
- Driver’s License: At the time of appointment you must have a valid NYS Driver’s license.
- Criminal Record: You cannot have been convicted of a Felony.
- Testing: You must pass the Civil Service Police written and Agility Test.
- Background Investigation: You must also pass a thorough Background Investigation.
What is the salary range for Syracuse Police Officers?
Syracuse Police Pay Scale 2023
| Pay Grade | Base Pay | Holiday Pay | Uniform Stipend | Total* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | $54,742 | $2,737 | $700 | $58,179 |
| End of Year 1 | $68,775 | $3,438 | $700 | $77,913** |
| End of Year 2 | $75,000 | $3,750 | $700 | $79,450 |
| End of Year 3 | $77,341 | $3,867 | $700 | $81,908 |
| End of Year 4 | $79,656 | $3,983 | $700 | $84,339 |
| End of Year 5 | $82,561 | $4,128 | $700 | $87,389 |
What are the requirements for lateral candidates?
To be considered for a lateral transfer to the Syracuse Police Department, you must meet the following requirements:
- Employment: You must be currently employed full-time as a Police Officer in New York State.
- Hiring: You must have been hired from a NYS Civil Service List.
- Training: You must have successfully completed the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Basic Academy.
- Probationary Period: You must have successfully completed the probationary period with your current agency.
It’s important to note that lateral transfers are not subject to residency requirements. If you meet these requirements and are interested in joining the Syracuse Police Department as a lateral candidate, please email us directly at: recruitment@syracusepolice.org
Are there any other financial incentives for becoming a Syracuse Police Officer?
Yes, in addition to the competitive salary and benefits package, the Syracuse Police Department also offers financial incentives for officers with certain qualifications. If you have an Associates, Bachelors, or Masters Degree, or if you are a veteran or Bi/Multilingual, you may be eligible for a financial incentive.
What benefits are available to veterans who join the Syracuse Police Department?
The Syracuse Police Department recognizes the value that veterans bring to our department and offers several benefits to support them. Firstly, veterans will receive an additional 2 days of paid time off each year. Secondly, while attending the Syracuse Regional Police Academy, veterans may use their GI Bill to receive extra funding from the government. Finally, veterans may be eligible to buy back service time, which would enable them to retire up to 3 years early.
What specialized units are available within the department?
The Syracuse Police Department has several specialized units that are dedicated to specific tasks and areas of law enforcement. These units include:
- Special Investigations
- Special Investigations (Narco)
- Gang Violence Task Force
- Criminal Investigations
- Homicide
- Intelligence
- Abused Persons
- Warrants
- Crime Scene Unit
- Patrol
- K-9
- Traffic
- Schools
- Animal Cruelty
- Training & Education
- Recruitment
- Academy
- Inservice Training
- Wellness
- Specialized Units
- SWAT
- Crisis Response Unit
- Public Order Unit
- Bomb Squad
- Peer Support
- Ceremonial Unit
What are the department's policies regarding tattoos and beards?
The Syracuse Police Department recognizes that societal norms and expectations have evolved over time, and we strive to accommodate these changes while maintaining a professional appearance. As such, we allow tattoos on any part of the body except the head, face, neck, and hands. Officers are also permitted to have facial hair, including beards, mustaches, and goatees, as long as they are well-maintained and do not interfere with the use of any required equipment or protective gear.
Does the Syracuse Police Department have a residency requirement?
Yes, new hires of the Syracuse Police Department are required to establish residency in the City of Syracuse within six months of graduating from the Syracuse Regional Police Academy, and must live within the city for five years after their date of hire. However, lateral transfers are exempt from this residency requirement.
What is the typical schedule for a patrol officer?
Starting in the Fall of 2023, patrol officers in the Syracuse Police Department will work a 4/3-4/4 schedule consisting of 10-hour shifts. This means that an officer will work for 4 consecutive days, followed by 3 days off, then work for another 4 days, followed by 4 consecutive days off. Compared to a traditional 5-day, 40-hour work week, this schedule provides patrol officers with an additional 65 days off each year.
How to Become a Syracuse Police Officer
Your Path To A Career In Law Enforcement
Take the first step towards a career of service and community with a clear understanding of the hiring process.
Join Us at Our
Recruitment Event
Fill out the form below to pre-register for our upcoming recruitment event. A recruiter will reach out to confirm your registration and provide you with your assigned arrival time.
The SPD is the largest municipal police force in the Central New York region, staffed by approximately 400 sworn officers and 100 civilian personnel. The department’s jurisdiction covers the city of Syracuse, which has an estimated population of over 143,000 people.
The Syracuse Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For more information, visit us at SYR.gov.
©2025, Syracuse Police Department
Syracuse Police
Department
Headquarters
511 S. State St. Syracuse, NY 13202
Recruitment
Syracuse Police
Department
The SPD is the largest municipal police force in the Central New York region, staffed by approximately 400 sworn officers and 100 civilian personnel. The department’s jurisdiction covers the city of Syracuse, which has an estimated population of over 143,000 people.
The Syracuse Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For more information, visit us at SYR.gov.
Headquarters
511 S. State St. Syracuse, NY 13202
Recruitment
recruitment@syracusepolice.org
315-442-5227
©2025, Syracuse Police Department