The Austin Police Department serves the capital city of Texas. The department prides itself on being a diverse, progressive agency focused on community relations. Approximately 2,000 Austin police officers serve one of the fastest growing cites in the nation. APD officers receive one of the highest salaries in Texas. Officers can qualify for additional stackable monthly pay based on their education level, foreign language proficiency, and shift differential. In addition, officers are eligible to receive $2,000 per year to continue their education. Each year APD officers accrue 150 hrs of personal vacation, about 120 hrs of exceptional vacation, 16 personal holiday hrs, and about 145 hrs of paid sick leave. APD offices earn a 3.2% multiplier for each year of service. Officers can retire at 23 years at 73.6% of their base pay, earning an addition 3.2% each year they stay. The officers are vested after 10 years of service. Veterans are able to purchase two years of their military time to count towards their retirement.Opportunity abounds for the APD officer. APD has over 50 full time specialized units that they can transfer to after two years of service. Some of the specialized units include SWAT, Bomb Squad, Lake Patrol, Air Support, Parks, Mounted, and K-9. After 4 years of service, officers can test for detective/corporal. Austin is an incredible place to live, work, and play. Austin's legendary live music, burgeoning restaurant scene, unique culture, vibrant and welcoming community, as well as a list of other things have to be experienced for yourself to truly understand what makes Austin so Austin. APD does not require any college, military, or prior law enforcement experience to apply. Hired applicants will attend the departments 8 month paid police academy located in southeast Austin. For detailed information and to apply online visit www.APDRecruiting.org.The Austin Police Department is an Equal Opportunity Employer.