Police Officer I​/II

The Gaston County Police Department was created by Legislative Act on July 1, 1957, and began operation with a chief, a secretary, and 23 sworn officers. Initially responsible for providing police service to unincorporated areas of the county, the department now employs 153 sworn officers serving approximately 90,000 residents across over 270 square miles, including the incorporated towns of High Shoals and Spencer Mountain.

The following duties are considered essential for the role, though not exhaustive:

Qualifications include:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree is required.
• A course of study in Criminal Justice or related field is preferred.
• Applicants anticipating graduation may apply; employment is contingent upon degree completion.

Additional requirements:

• Must be at least 20 years old.
• Ability to obtain a North Carolina Driver's License without restrictions.
• Willingness to relocate to Gaston County or surrounding counties (Mecklenburg, Lincoln, Cleveland, or York County, SC).

All candidates must pass a drug screening test prior to employment.

Salary ranges:

• $22.45 – $37.06 per hour (Police Officer I – Cadet)
• $24.71 – $40.76 per hour (Police Officer II – Sworn)

Additional compensation includes bonuses based on years of service for lateral officers. Police officers are provided with take-home vehicles.

Prior to employment, candidates will undergo physical and psychological examinations, background checks, and other required assessments.