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Colorado State Patrol Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CO · On-site

$19/hr

... the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state ... patrols park areas by vehicle, bicycle or foot. Responds to emergencies and resolves visitor ...

CO · On-site

$19/hr

... the Colorado Department of Natural Resources is to develop, preserve, and enhance the state ... patrols park areas by vehicle, bicycle or foot. Responds to emergencies and resolves visitor ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

... Colorado. Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all seasons and weather conditions. Park ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

... Colorado. Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all seasons and weather conditions. Park ...

CO · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most of the work is conducted outside in ...

CO

$17 - $19/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most of the work is conducted outside in ...

CO · On-site

$18 - $19.50/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

$18/hr

... Colorado's natural resources. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

CO · On-site

$18/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work is conducted outside in all ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Golden Gate Canyon State Park Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work ...

CO · On-site

$20/hr

Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Description of Job Golden Gate Canyon State Park Temporary Park Rangers educate the public and patrol our State Parks. They perform a wide variety of jobs, and most work ...

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Colorado State Patrol information

See salary details

$12

$20

$37

How much do colorado state patrol jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for colorado state patrol in the United States is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does state patrol make in Colorado?

The Colorado State Patrol troopers earn an average annual salary of around $70,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, rank, and years of service. Salaries typically increase with promotions, specialized training, and certifications, and officers often receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What is the difference between Colorado State Patrol vs Colorado Highway Patrol?

AspectColorado State PatrolColorado Highway Patrol
CertificationsPeace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certificationPeace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification
Work EnvironmentHighway patrol, traffic enforcement, accident investigationHighway patrol, traffic enforcement, emergency response
Employer & IndustryState government, transportation safetyState government, transportation safety
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The Colorado State Patrol and Colorado Highway Patrol are often used interchangeably, as both refer to the same agency responsible for highway safety, traffic enforcement, and accident investigation in Colorado. They share similar certifications, work environments, and employer structures. The primary difference is that 'Colorado State Patrol' is the official agency name, while 'Colorado Highway Patrol' is a commonly used term by the public. Both roles require POST certification and focus on maintaining safety on Colorado's roads.

What are Colorado State Patrol officers?

Colorado State Patrol officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for ensuring the safety of highways and roads across Colorado. Their primary duties include enforcing traffic laws, assisting motorists, investigating accidents, and supporting public safety initiatives. They also collaborate with other agencies during emergencies and play a crucial role in reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities. Colorado State Patrol officers are highly trained and committed to serving the residents and visitors of the state.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Colorado State Patrol Trooper, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Colorado State Patrol Trooper, you need a high school diploma or GED, a valid driver's license, physical fitness, and knowledge of law enforcement practices, often supplemented by police academy training. Proficiency in using law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and emergency response equipment is typical. Strong decision-making, integrity, and effective communication are critical soft skills for handling stressful situations and interacting with the public. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring public safety, enforcing laws, and building trust within the community.

Is 30 too old to become a state trooper?

The Colorado State Patrol typically requires applicants to be at least 21 years old and to meet physical fitness and background standards. Age limits can vary by state, but many agencies accept applicants up to their mid-30s or older if they meet all other requirements and pass the selection process.

What are some of the unique challenges faced by Colorado State Patrol officers during their daily duties?

Colorado State Patrol officers often work in diverse and sometimes challenging environments, from high-altitude mountain passes to busy urban highways. They may encounter extreme weather conditions, particularly during winter months, which can complicate traffic enforcement and accident response. Officers also regularly interact with a broad cross-section of the public, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Additionally, balancing law enforcement with community service and maintaining safety on Colorado’s vast road network makes adaptability and quick decision-making essential for success.

How to become a state trooper?

To become a state trooper, applicants must meet age and education requirements, typically be at least 21 years old, and possess a high school diploma or GED. Candidates must pass written exams, physical fitness tests, background checks, and a medical and psychological evaluation, followed by training at a police academy. Law enforcement experience or military service can be advantageous, and applicants should be prepared for a demanding schedule and ongoing training.

Who gets paid more, sheriff or state trooper?

Generally, sheriffs tend to earn higher salaries than state troopers due to additional responsibilities, administrative duties, and the scope of their role. Salary differences can vary based on location, experience, and department size, but sheriffs often have higher pay and benefits. Both positions require law enforcement training and certification.
More about Colorado State Patrol jobs
What cities are hiring for Colorado State Patrol jobs? Cities with the most Colorado State Patrol job openings:
What states have the most Colorado State Patrol jobs? States with the most job openings for Colorado State Patrol jobs include:
Infographic showing various Colorado State Patrol job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 46% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 57% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 42% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,217 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Communications Branch Director

Communications Branch Director

State of Colorado

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$106K - $150K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


State Of Colorado rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 50 rated states


Job description

Department Information This position is open only to current Colorado state residents. An eligible list established with this recruitment may be used to fill other similar positions within the Colorado Department of Public Safety in the next 12 months. Our Mission - Engaged employees working together to safeguard lives and to provide diverse public safety services to local communities.

Our Vision - Creating safer and more resilient communities across Colorado. Our Core Values - Unity, Honor, Service The State of Colorado strives to create a Colorado for All by building and maintaining workplaces that value and respect all Coloradans through a commitment to equal opportunity and hiring based on merit and fitness. The State is dedicated to non-discriminatory practices in everything we do, including hiring, employment, and advancement opportunities.

At CDPS, our culture is driven by our commitment to creating a safer Colorado and guided by a public service focus. We strive to provide effective solutions and services to our fellow Coloradans. We model a culture of collaboration, innovation, and growth for our employees.

We maintain a professional and inclusive workplace. Careers with a purpose: If you are passionate about public safety and public service, and are eager to dedicate your career to serving Coloradans, consider joining CDPS. Our team at CDPS consists of exceptional individuals and is an environment where you can challenge yourself and acquire new capabilities to build a rewarding and fulfilling career.

We are committed to providing public safety services to our communities including safety on our roads, preparing for and mitigating environmental disasters such as floods and wildland fires, disaster recovery, combating crime, promoting school safety, and victim services. Classification and Salary: MANAGEMENT Anticipated Hiring Range: $8,898 - $12,522/month; $106,776 - $150,264/year Full Salary Range: $8,898 - $14,238/month; $106,776 - $170,856/year Benefits: We provide a wide range of benefits to our employees. Medical and dental options are available for permanent employees and their dependents.

We also offer short and long-term disability coverage, and life insurance that includes legal resources and discounts. Eligible employees receive Basic Life and AD&D insurance equal to their annual earnings subject to a minimum benefit of $50,000 and a maximum of $250,000. Basic Life and AD&D are provided by the State of Colorado at no cost to employees.

The State of Colorado's Wellness Program, State of Health, is a no-cost, year-long program that supports an employee's health and wellness goals. This program offers personalized health coaching, skill groups and more. Participants can earn a $20 per month health insurance premium discount.

Through BenefitHub, State of Colorado employees have access to discounts, promotions and special programs from hundreds of retailers, restaurants, travel and entertainment venues throughout Colorado and across the country. State contribution into a Health Savings Account when enrolled in a High Deductible Health Plan. Eligible employees have access to medical leave under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the State of Colorado Family and Medical Leave Insurance Program (FAMLI).

Eligibility for hybrid or other flexible work arrangements based on the nature of the role. We offer excellent retirement benefits including mandatory PERA Defined Benefit Plan or PERA Defined Contribution Plan, plus optional 401K and 457 plans. For information on mandatory employee salary deferral (in lieu of contribution to Social Security), visit Colorado PERA for details.

We provide generous time off including 11 paid holidays annually and accrued annual and sick leave and four annual wellness days. The Employee Assistance Program (C-SEAP) is available in every region of the state. It is our effort to support the well-being of employees and the workplace.

EAPs provide short-term counseling, referrals and resources, as well as training and organizational development services. Tuition reimbursement and reduced college tuition at CSU Global and DeVry University. We offer Credit Union of Colorado membership eligibility.

To learn more about State of Colorado benefits, please visit State of Colorado benefits. Description of Job About the Work Unit The mission of the Colorado State Patrol is to ensure a safe and secure environment for all persons by utilizing the strengths of its members and providing professional law enforcement services that reflect honor, duty, and respect. Through high visibility, strict enforcement, maximum resource deployment, and community education, the CSP promotes safety, protects lives, and preserves state highways.

The CSP Communications Branch provides 24/7/365 emergency public safety communications to designated federal, state, and local agencies within Colorado. The Branch provides and manages the resources to accomplish this task. Work Environment 100% In-person position Primarily 8:00 am - 5:00 pm work hours, Monday-Friday Approximately 75% spent in the office, 25% spent traveling in the field Occasional overnight travel throughout Colorado Required to operate CDPS vehicles at times About the Job The Communications Branch Director leads, oversees, and supervises a professional public safety communications capability for the Colorado State Patrol, interoperability between Colorado State Patrol and other agencies, and public safety communications service to designated agencies, the public, and fee-for-service customers.

This position supervises the performance of the branch headquarters staff, five regional communication centers, and all associated FTE, which support and provide information to the uniformed members of the State Patrol and other agencies, as well as 911 service to associated jurisdictions. This position supervises FTE who use privileged, confidential, and classified information with police, fire, and emergency service personnel. The position leads, supervises, and manages all aspects of the Branch and the communications portfolio, including the Branch's five lines of effort (personnel, equipment, training, facilities, budget).

Develops and establishes policies and procedures, strategic planning, and budget justification. Identifies, procures, and oversees technical needs regarding public safety communications and ancillary systems within the Colorado State Patrol. Key Responsibilities Program Management Plan the strategy, execution, and evaluation of functions and five lines of effort (personnel, finance, equipment, training, facilities) within the Branch.

Creates appropriate procedures, processes, and systems for optimal public safety communication center functions. Monitor ongoing progression of program development and implementation, federal and legislative programs, to ensure activities follow applicable policy and federal and state laws. Approve internal policies for communication center operations and personnel activities, tracking and managing multiple program budgets (Comm Budget, Radio Budget, FFS revenue), purchasing activities, and coordinating Branch enduring programs and temporary projects.

Determine, approve, and oversee technical public safety communications needs, including radio system, computer-aided dispatch, wireless, voice recording, server, bandwidth, and telephone (land line, IP, and cell) systems for the department. Invoice and receive monies from designated agencies for their fees associated with contracted dispatch. Ensure OIT compliance with public safety communications matters.

Leadership and Supervision Directly supervise professional staff and Regional Managers who manage the five main public safety communication centers. Monitor and evaluate performance, approve hiring of communication personnel, and administer disciplinary actions. Oversee the investigation of complaints against communication personnel and/or violations of Colorado State Patrol policy.

Utilize concepts of management theory and principles of interpersonal relations and adapts them to achieve maximum personnel motivation in an environment of continuously changing needs and situations. Ensure an environment for subordinates to perform at their optimal level. Administer agency-level communication and programs to carry out agency objectives by directly supervising and evaluating subordinate members; executes directives and assignments issued by the executive command staff; monitors field public information officer initiatives; communicates with command staff and middle managers on items or events of interest; initiates and reviews correspondence; and disseminates information to subordinate members.

Investigate and administer corrective actions or make a recommendation for disciplinary actions. Internal and External Outreach Serve as the representative and spokesperson for the Colorado State Patrol on communications issues with federal, state, and local government agencies and relevant/designated Boards and Committees. Collaborate with departmental staff to answer requests for information from government officials, establish new agency programs and priorities, and fielding of new capabilities.

Testify before legislative committees as required. Minimum Qualifications, Substitutions, Conditions of Employment & Appeal Rights Note, to be considered for this position, you must meet one of the following options for consideration. Proven Experience, Knowledge, Skills Ten (10) years of relevant experience in leadership and creating, managing and executing strategies, two (2) of which must have included experience with public or business administration, establishing goals and objectives, as well as developing and managing a budget to achieve program goals and objectives.

Please Note: This experience must be clearly documented on your application and the supplemental questions must be answered. OR Education and Experience, Knowledge, Skills A combination of related education and/or relevant experience in leadership and creating, managing and executing strategies equal to ten (10) years, two (2) of which must have included experience with public or business administration, establishing goals and objectives, as well as developing and managing a budget to achieve program goals and objectives Please Note: This experience must be clearly documented on your application and the supplemental questions must be answered. Preferred Qualifications Previous police communications experience Conditions of Employment Must be a Colorado resident at the time of application Requires successful completion of a background investigation that includes a polygraph exam, a fingerprint based criminal history search, reference checking, driving history, drug test and medical exam.

Appeal Rights If you receive notice that you have been eliminated from consideration for the position, you may protest the action by filing an appeal with the State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director within 10 days from the date you receive notice of the elimination. Also, if you wish to challenge the selection and comparative analysis process, you may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director within 10 days from the receipt of notice or knowledge of the action you are challenging. Refer to Chapters 4 and 8 of the State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures, 4 CCR 801, for more information about the appeals process.

The State Personnel Board Rules and Personnel Director's Administrative Procedures are available at www.colorado.gov/spb. A standard appeal form is available at: www.colorado.gov/spb. If you appeal, your appeal must be submitted in writing on the official appeal form, signed by you or your representative, and received at the following address within 10 days of your receipt of notice or knowledge of the action: Colorado State Personnel Board/State Personnel Director, Attn: Appeals Processing, 1525 Sherman Street, 4th Floor, Denver, CO 80203

Fax: 303-866-5038. Phone: 303-866-3300. The ten-day deadline and these appeal procedures also apply to all charges of discrimination.

Supplemental Information Disability Accommodation If you have a disability and require reasonable accommodation to ensure equitable opportunity applying or interviewing for this position, please direct your inquiries to Human Resources at: cdps_hr@state.co.us. The State of Colorado is an equal opportunity employer committed to building inclusive, innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. Therefore, in all aspects of the employment process, we provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, medical condition related to pregnancy, creed, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, or military status (with preference given to military veterans), or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law

Colorado Department of Public Safety is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, our agency will assist individuals who have a disability with any reasonable accommodation requests related to employment, including completing the application process, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, participating in the employee selection process, and/or to perform essential job functions where the requested accommodation does not impose an undue hardship. Recruitment Timeline Information and Important Notices Applications are considered complete and accurate at the time of submission.

Therefore, additional information may not be solicited or accepted after your application has been received. Closing Date: All applications that are received by the closing of this announcement will be reviewed against the Minimum Qualifications in this announcement. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications may proceed to the next step.

Colorado Revised Statutes require that state employees are hired and promoted based on merit and fitness through a comparative analysis process. Supplemental Question: Effective responses to Supplemental Questions will directly relate to your professional experience, career accomplishments, and views about organizational values and approaches, and how they relate specifically to this position and requirements as you understand them. Answers generated by AI-tools will typically be unresponsive.

Transcripts: An unofficial copy of transcripts must be submitted at the time of application should education be used as qualification. Transcripts from colleges or universities outside the Uni...


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