Advancement
For those interested in advancing through the ranks, several options are available. The ranks of Sergeant through Captain are attained by way of a competitive Civil Service promotional examination. Persons in these positions are covered by Bargaining Unit contract. The ranks above Captain are made by appointment, and are not part of the collective bargaining process. The rank of Captain is vacated at this time.
Officers and Detectives are eligible to sit for the Sergeant's exam after 3 years of service as sworn Dayton Police Officers, or with two years of service when the officer possesses a Bachelor's Degree or higher.
| Chief of Police |
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| Assist. Chief of Police |
| Major |
| Captain |
| Lieutenant |
| Sergeant |
| Officer/Detective |
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