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Lieutenant Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

DENVER POLICE OFFICER

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Lieutenant EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION SUPPORT DPD employees have access to organizations that provide mentorship, advocacy, networking, wellness resources, and professional support throughout their ...

Firefighter/EMT

Evergreen, CO · On-site

$71K - $90K/yr

Lieutenant Department: EMS/Fire Operations FLSA Status: Non-exempt, 48/96 Schedule Pay Range: $71,000 - $90,331.83 Annually (hiring range is $71,000 to $78,718.97) This job posting is to create an ...

New

Director of Programs

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$105K - $110K/yr

Colorado For All - Colorado Employee Reflections Office of the Lieutenant Governor Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera serves as the second highest ranking elected or appointed official in the executive ...

Director of Programs

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$105K - $110K/yr

Colorado For All - Colorado Employee Reflections Office of the Lieutenant Governor Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera serves as the second highest ranking elected or appointed official in the executive ...

Showing results 21-31

Lieutenant information

See Colorado salary details

$45.2K

$85.9K

$139.9K

How much do lieutenant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lieutenant in Colorado is $85,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,100.00 and $114,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lieutenant?

Lieutenants are commissioned officers in the military or law enforcement who typically hold a junior leadership position. In the military, lieutenants are responsible for leading a platoon or a small unit of soldiers, overseeing their training, welfare, and operational effectiveness. In police departments, lieutenants supervise sergeants and officers, manage shifts, and ensure that policies and procedures are followed. The rank and responsibilities can vary between organizations, but lieutenants generally serve as a crucial link between higher command and front-line personnel.

What are some typical leadership challenges faced by a lieutenant, and how are they addressed?

As a Lieutenant, you are often responsible for managing a team and ensuring mission objectives are met, which can present challenges such as balancing authority with approachability, handling conflicts within your unit, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. Effective communication, strong decision-making skills, and ongoing mentorship from senior officers are key strategies for overcoming these challenges. Many organizations also provide leadership development programs and encourage collaboration among peers to foster a supportive environment, helping Lieutenants grow into more senior roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lieutenant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lieutenant, you typically need leadership abilities, decision-making skills, and a solid understanding of military tactics and protocols, usually supported by completion of officer training and relevant military education. Familiarity with operational planning software, communication systems, and weaponry is essential for managing missions and personnel. Strong interpersonal skills, resilience, and the ability to motivate and guide teams are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring effective unit performance, mission success, and the safety and well-being of the team.

What is the difference between Lieutenant vs Sergeant?

AspectLieutenantSergeant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require college or military trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; military or law enforcement training often preferred
Work EnvironmentLaw enforcement agencies, military units, fire departmentsLaw enforcement, military, security, and emergency services
Employer & Industry UsageTypically in police, fire, military, and security organizationsCommon in police, military, and security sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles and responsibilitiesUnderstanding rank and supervisory duties

While both Lieutenant and Sergeant are leadership roles within law enforcement and military organizations, Lieutenants generally hold higher authority and oversee larger units or divisions. Sergeants typically serve as frontline supervisors, managing smaller teams. The main differences lie in their scope of responsibility, rank hierarchy, and the level of command they hold within their respective organizations.

How do I become a lieutenant?

To become a lieutenant, candidates typically need to have prior experience in their field, demonstrate leadership skills, and meet specific requirements such as education, physical fitness, and background checks. Many agencies require passing written exams and interviews, and some may require specialized training or certifications. Advancement often involves gaining experience and demonstrating competence in supervisory roles.

What are popular job titles related to Lieutenant jobs in Colorado?

For Lieutenant jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Lieutenant jobs in CO?

For Lieutenant jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lieutenant job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,938 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Denver Police Officer

Denver Police Department

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

DENVER POLICE AND LATERAL OFFICER RECRUITMENT

The City and County of Denver is seeking motivated, professional, and community-oriented individuals to serve as Denver Police Officers.

The Denver Police Department (DPD) is committed to modern policing, professionalism, accountability, innovation, and strong community partnerships. DPD seeks applicants who are service-driven, solution-focused, and committed to protecting and serving one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.

Denver offers the opportunities of a major metropolitan city with immediate access to the Rocky Mountains and year-round recreation, places to live, work, serve, and build a career.

DPD offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career stability, specialized assignments, and promotional opportunities.

CURRENT APPLICATION STATUS

The Denver Civil Service Commission application is currently closed until further notice.

Complete the Denver Police Officer Interest Form to receive updates and information about future application opportunities.

When the application reopens, applicants must complete the Denver Civil Service application. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications should complete the National Testing Network (NTN) examination as soon as possible. Additional instructions will be provided throughout the hiring process.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

  1. 21 years of age at the time of application
  2. United States citizen or possess a valid visa authorizing employment in the United States
  3. High school diploma or GED
  4. Valid state-issued driver’s license
  5. No felony or domestic violence convictions

SALARY

Effective July 1, 2026

Denver Police Academy

Police Officer Recruit — $75,257

Upon Academy Graduation and Career Progression

Police Officer 4th Grade — $81,046
Police Officer 3rd Grade — $86,835
Police Officer 2nd Grade — $92,624
Police Officer 1st Grade — $115,780

Officers can reach top patrol officer’s pay in approximately three and a half years after beginning the Denver Police Academy.

HIGHLIGHTED BENEFITS

  • Full salary and benefits beginning on day one of the Denver Police Academy
  • Ten-hour shifts with three consecutive days off
  • Defined Benefit Pension Plan
  • Rule of 80 retirement eligibility: (https://dppa.com/what-is-the-rule-of-80-summary-by-fppaeffective-01-01-21/)
  • Deferred Retirement Option Plan (D.R.O.P.): (https://www.fppaco.org/PDF/ER/ER-Guide/FPPA-Employer-Guide-2021-Section-05.pdf)
  • Deferred Compensation 457 savings plan
  • Longevity pay beginning at five years of service
  • Vacation leave starting at 112 hours annually
  • Sick leave starting at 144 hours annually, including the Accumulated Sick Leave (ASL) program
  • Annual shift and vacation bidding
  • Off-duty secondary employment opportunities for additional income
  • Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits
  • Uniforms and most duty equipment provided
  • New bullet-resistant vest every five years
  • Annual uniform allowance

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

DPD offers opportunities for specialization, leadership, promotion, and long-term career development.

Specialized Assignments

  • Corporal – Training Officer
  • Motorcycle Officer
  • K-9 Technician
  • Community Resource Officer
  • School Resource Officer
  • Bomb Technician
  • Specialized Enforcement Units
  • Investigative Units
  • Leadership and supervisory assignments

Promotional Opportunities

Officers may advance through competitive promotional processes to:

  • Corporal
  • Detective
  • Sergeant
  • Lieutenant

EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION SUPPORT

DPD employees have access to organizations that provide mentorship, advocacy, networking, wellness resources, and professional support throughout their careers.

  • Denver Police Protective Association (DPPA)
  • Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Denver Lodge #41
  • Denver Police Blue Hat Foundation (DPBHF)
  • Denver Police Foundation (DPF)
  • Denver Black Police Officers Organization (DBPOO)
  • Denver Police Latino Organization (DPLO)
  • Additional employee and professional organizations

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Complete the Denver Police Officer Interest Form to receive recruiting updates and information about future application opportunities.


Build a career in service, leadership, and community. Join the Denver Police Department.

Company Description

The Denver Police Department (DPD) is a nationally recognized law enforcement agency committed to professionalism, integrity, teamwork, accountability, and community partnership.
DPD officers serve and protect the City and County of Denver while upholding high standards of public service. We seek motivated individuals who demonstrate leadership, sound judgment, courage, and commitment to others.
WHY BECOME A DENVER POLICE OFFICER?
The Denver Police badge is earned. It represents the responsibility to act in the face of danger, make sound decisions under pressure, and uphold public trust.
Becoming a Denver Police Officer is more than a career—it is an opportunity to serve, protect, and make a difference.