Employment
CPD stands for Courage. Professionalism. Dedication.
What do YOU stand for?
What We Do
- Policing the Pennsylvania Capitol Complex and state-owned facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of members and staff of the PA General Assembly, visitors and state employees from threats of crime, disruption and terrorism; preserving law and order; serving as a deterrent to violations of laws, rules, and regulations;
- Enforcing Commonwealth and local laws and regulations;
- Performing protective services, securing state-owned buildings and property, and protecting government personnel, property and equipment;
- Keeping the peace during rallies, demonstrations, and other protests that may occur on Commonwealth property;
- Performing preliminary and follow up investigations of crimes and accidents, and processing crime scenes;
- Preparing investigative reports and testifying in court; and
- Providing public safety trainings such as: Active Shooter, Crime Prevention and Personal Safety and First-Aid/CPR.
![](/police/employment/PublishingImages/CPD_Employment-2.jpg)
Specialty Divisions
K-9 Unit – Through the use of expertly trained handlers and dogs, The K-9 Unit teams are responsible for detecting explosive devices, weapons and illegal substances.
Bike Patrol – The Bike Patrol complements and enhances the patrol function of the Capitol Police in specific areas within Capitol Police jurisdiction on bicycles.
Ceremonial Unit – The Ceremonial Unit provides official Capitol Police representation at significant occasions such as parades, funerals, memorials and other state events.
Special Response Team (SRT) – The SRT consists of specially trained and equipped police officers who specialize in the tactical resolution of high-risk incidents in the most effective and efficient manner to preserve the lives of the persons directly or indirectly involved.
Field Force Unit – The Field Force Unit consists of specially trained and equipped officers whose expertise is in large-event management and handling situations of civil disturbance.
![](/police/employment/PublishingImages/CPD-Employment-3.jpg)
How to Be A Part of CPD
Applicant must:
- Possess a valid Pennsylvania operator's license;
- Be a resident of Pennsylvania;
- Be at least 20 years of age when applying for the position and at least 21 years of age upon appointment;
- Successfully complete polygraph and background investigations.
NOTE: Applicants who have successfully completed a MPOETC Certified Basic Police Academy but do not currently possess the MPOETC certification, must be able to successfully pass the MPOETC certification exam prior to being considered for the position.
![](/police/employment/PublishingImages/CPD-Employment-1.jpg)
CPD Benefits & Salary Info
Competitive Benefits Package
- Medical
- Eye
- Dental
- Prescription
Salary (effective 10/1/22 )
- $48,843 – first year
- $54,935 – second year
- $61,048 – third year
- Shift Differential - Officers working 1st or 3rd Platoon receive additional hourly compensation
Leave
- Annual
- Sick
- Holiday (11 per year)
- Compensatory
- Military
Additional Info
-
Promotional Opportunities – Additional ranks include corporal, sergeant, and lieutenant. Promotion to other ranks is made through a competitive promotional process.
-
Overtime – Officers have the opportunity to work a variety of special events throughout the year and earn additional income.
-
Equipment – Uniforms, duty gear, and uniform dry cleaning are provided by the department.
-
Shift Hours – Permanent shift with permanent relief days (1st, 2nd, 3rd Platoon) ( Enhanced Security Unit )
-
Pension – 25 / 55; Deferred Compensation Plan available