The Bushkill Township Police Department (BTPD) is actively seeking a dedicated and motivated individual to join our professional and progressive law enforcement team. BTPD is a PLEAC accredited department through the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association and is committed to delivering high-quality police services while fostering strong community relationships.

Bushkill Township is in the north-central portion of Northampton County, Pennsylvania, within the Lehigh Valley, the Commonwealth’s third most populous metropolitan area. The township spans 25.3 square miles and features a diverse mix of rural, agricultural, residential, and light industrial areas, serving a growing population of approximately 9,000 residents.

BTPD prides itself on its professionalism, and the use of modern equipment and technology. Officers are supported through continuous training, strict adherence to professional standards, accountability, transparency, and a proactive, problem-solving approach to policing.

WHY BTPD? 

At BTPD, officers are more than a badge number, they are valued professionals and integral members of the community. BTPD offers a team-based environment that encourages initiative, innovation, and career growth. Officers are empowered to engage in meaningful community policing, utilize modern technology, and take an active role in shaping the future of the department.

BTPD seeks individuals who want to excel professionally, embrace change and innovation, and make a real impact while serving a supportive and forward-thinking organization.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants for the position of Police Officer with the BTPD must possess the requisite skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to perform the duties of a police officer. A summary of the job description and hiring process can be viewed at: Selection Process 2026.pdf 190.91 KB

Must be a United States Citizen, at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment, and possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license

• Must be a resident of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the time of appointment and reside within 10 miles of Bushkill Township within 1 year of hire date
• Must possess a high school diploma or GED from an accredited institution (College education preferred, but not required)
• Must be of good moral character and have no misdemeanor or felony convictions
• Must be physically and psychologically capable of performing the duties of a police officer, as outlined in the job description
• Must possess visual acuity acceptable for performing all essential functions and responsibilities of a police officer
• Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, as defined under 29 CFR §1630.2, with or without reasonable accommodation

CERTIFICATION & TRAINING:

• Act 120 certification is required upon conditional offer of employment
• Applicants meeting one or more of the following criteria will receive preferred consideration:
  • Successful completion of a Pennsylvania MPOETC Act 120 Police Academy
  • Current enrollment in a certified MPOETC Act 120 Police Academy with anticipated graduation date prior to conditional offer of employment

  • Current employment as a full-time police officer in another state who meets that state’s certification standards and is eligible to successfully pass the MPOETC certification examination

HIRING PROCESS AND EMPLOYMENT CONDITIONS:

• Review of Resume
• Completion of Application (Will be contacted after resume review)
• Oral interview(s)
• Comprehensive background investigation to include a polygraph examination
• Medical examination
• Psychological evaluation
• Drug screening
• Any additional testing requested or required by the Bushkill Township Police Department or MPOETC

ACT 57 COMPLIANCE:

It is the policy of the Bushkill Township Police Department to adhere to the requirements of Act 57. This includes in-depth background investigation and past employer and personal references. 

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

• Starting salary is $86,316 (2026)
• Annual pay increases over a 4-year period to reach top base pay and longevity bonus
• Shift differential - 2.5% for hours worked between 3pm-11pm, 3.5% for hours worked between 11pm -7am
• Paid vacation, personal, holiday, compensatory, and sick leave
• Township-paid medical, dental, vision, prescription coverage, and life insurance
• Defined benefit pension plan, 12-year vested, 25 years at age 50 or 20 years at age 50 (reduced benefit), Cost of Living Adjustment, years of service increments over 25 years
• 457 Plan
• 5-year Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP)
• 12-hour shifts for patrol

HOW TO APPLY:

• Submit Resume and cover letter (addressed to Chief of Police) by 12:00 pm, Friday, March 13, 2026
• Email: police@bushkilltownship.com
• U.S. Mail or In Person

Bushkill Township Police Department

1114 Bushkill Center Road

Nazareth, PA 18064

All required documents must be submitted by various deadlines throughout the process to be considered. Bushkill Township is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ATTACHMENTS

• Selection Process 2026.pdf 190.91 KB