Application Window and Testing Dates
The McKinney Police Department (MPD) has announced that it is currently accepting applications for the Police Officer Exam. Prospective candidates are instructed to ensure they can attend one of the scheduled testing dates before submitting their application.
Those whose applications are accepted will select a testing date from two available options: Tuesday, Sept. 29 or Thursday, Oct. 1. Successful candidates in the hiring process would have employment start dates beginning in either January or February 2027.
Salary and Benefits
The department provides specific salary information for different roles within the hiring pipeline:
- Recruits: $83,992.23
- Academy Graduate: $88,412.87
- Laterals: Starting pay is equivalent to years of service, up to Step 9 at $112,576.89. This includes a paid Supplemental Peace Officer course and test.
Duties and Opportunities
The MPD describes itself as a progressive, customer service-oriented organization emphasizing respect, integrity, service, and excellence. The department seeks qualified individuals with high ethical standards to help keep McKinney safe for citizens to live, work, and visit.
All new recruits begin their careers in the Patrol Division. Duties include patrolling districts, responding to calls for service, conducting preliminary investigations, handling traffic-related incidents, writing reports, pursuing and detaining suspects, making arrests, participating in community policing activities, attending training including firearms and defensive tactics, preparing for court appearances, enforcing traffic and parking laws, and working with other local, state, and federal entities.
The department lists numerous sworn opportunities beyond patrol, including Accident Investigations, Community Relations, Criminal Investigations, Motorcycle Officer, Traffic Unit, Mounted Horse Unit, Neighborhood Police Unit, Recruiting/Background Investigator, School Resource Officer, Hostage Negotiations, Narcotics Unit, Drone Operator, SWAT, and K-9 Handler.
Non-sworn openings include Communication Specialist (9-1-1 operator), Records Clerk, Open Records Specialist, Public Safety Officer, Mental Health Coordinator, Forensic Investigators, Crime Analyst, Crime Victim Advocate, and Case Management roles. Applications for Police Officer Recruiting can be submitted via email to the department, while Communications Recruiting applications should be sent to the designated recruiting address.
