Entry Level Officer   
Experienced Officer
Employee Benefits
 
Serve with purpose. Grow without limits.
Join one of Illinois' most progressive and community-focused police departments.

Protect a vibrant community, build specialized skills, and advance your career alongside a team committed to Honor, Integrity, and Service.


Why Gurnee?

The Gurnee Police Department offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while building a career that matches your interests and strengths.

Whether you are passionate about investigations, technology, community engagement, tactical operations, or school safety, you will find opportunities to grow and specialize.

Located between Chicago and Milwaukee, Gurnee combines the resources of a larger agency with the culture and support of a close-knit department.
 
What Makes Us Different
At the Gurnee Police Department, learning does not stop after the academy. Officers have access to advanced training, instructor certifications, leadership development programs, and specialized schools throughout their careers. Whether you goal is to become a field training officers, supervisor, investigator, or subject matter expert, we invest in your growth every step of the way. 
A career with the Gurnee Police Department can take you far beyond patrol. Officers have opportunities to serve as detectives, school resource officers, evidence technicians, drone operators, K9 handlers, field training officers, crisis intervention officers, and members of regional task forces. As your interests evolve, so can your career, allowing you to build a path that aligns with your passions and professional goals. 
At the Gurnee Police Department, officers are encouraged to be active members of the community, not just responds to emergencies. Through school partnerships, community events, crime prevention initiatives, and everyday interactions, our officers build meaningful relationships that help make Gurnee one of the safest and most welcoming communities in Illinois. The impact you make here extends far beyond a single call for service.
We believe our officers deserve the tools necessary to serve safely and effectively. Gurnee utilizes cutting-edge technology including Drone as a First Responder (DFR), digital evidence management systems, advanced investigative software, automated reporting tools, and modern communication platforms. By embracing innovation, we enhance officer safety, improve efficiency, and better serve our community.

      


"The best part about working in Gurnee is that you're encouraged to grow. Whether your goal is investigations, specialized assignments, leadership, or community engagement, this department gives you the support and opportunities to build the career you want."
 
Tyler Schutt
Police Officer of the Year 2025
    
Frequently Asked Questions
No. We welcome applicants from a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. While law enforcement experience and a criminal justice education can be beneficial, they are not required. 

We are looking for individuals with strong character, professionalism, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to serving others.
To be considered for employment with the Gurnee Police Department, applicants must meet the minimum requirements and qualifications:

    • United States citizen or Naturalized citizen.
    • Minimum 20 years of age (21 years of age by police academy graduation date) and less than 35 years of age as of application deadline unless otherwise exempt. Military Veterans may exceed the maximum age by the number of years served on active military duty but by no more than 10 years of active military duty. 
    • Graduation from high school or equivalent thereof.
    • Valid driver’s license.

AND at least one of the following:

    • College coursework towards 60 hours of college credit [must provide proof of 60 hours completed prior to hire]; OR
    • At least two (2) years United States military service; OR
    • ILETSB Basic Correctional Officer Training certification [submit certificate with application]; OR
    • Experience as a full time sworn law enforcement officer; must be able to be certified in accordance with 50 ILCS 705/8.1 [submit certificate with application]
Absolutely. We regularly receive applications from candidates across the country. Many portions of the hiring process can be completed remotely, making it easier for our-of-state applicants to pursue a career with the Gurnee Police Department.
Possibly. Requirements vary based on your certification, training, and prior law enforcement experience.

The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board evaluates out-of-state certifications to determine eligibility for reciprocity, waiver programs, or required academy training. Our recruitment team can help guide you through the process.
No. The Gurnee Police Department does not have a residency requirement.
Patrol officers work a 12-hour schedule that provides every other weekend off and regularly scheduled days off throughout the year.

Our officers like this schedule because:
    • 12-hour shifts allow you to work fewer days each month while maintaining full-time employment
    • Every other weekend off allows you more time with friends and family
    • Work-Life balance that provides you opportunities to relax, travel, attend events, or pursue personal interests
Yes. The Gurnee Police Department allows professionally maintained facial hair and visible tattoos, provided they comply with departmental grooming and appearance standards.

We recognize that modern policing attracts talented professionals from diverse backgrounds while maintaining a professional public image.