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Police Department Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Denver Police Department

DENVER POLICE OFFICER

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

DENVER POLICE DEPARTMENT: POLICE 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

Denver Police Officer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

DENVER POLICE DEPARTMENT: POLICE OFFICER RECRUITMENT The City and County of Denver is seeking motivated, professional, and community-oriented individuals to serve as Denver Police Officers. The ...

City of Brighton, CO

Police Explorer

Brighton, CO · On-site

Police Department 3401 E Bromley Ln, Brighton CO, 80601, CO Job Type: Seasonal Job Number: 23-00833 Department: Police Department Division: Police Support Operations Opening Date: 01/24/2023 Closing ...

Avon

Police Officer

Avon, CO · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Join the Avon Police Department Team! Are you interested in becoming a Police Officer with the nationally accredited Avon Police Department? Now is your opportunity to join a diverse, motivated, and ...

Town of Avon

Police Officer

Avon, CO · On-site

Join the Avon Police Department Team! Are you interested in becoming a Police Officer with the nationally accredited Avon Police Department? Now is your opportunity to join a diverse, motivated, and ...

Town of Avon

Police Officer

Avon, CO · On-site

Join the Avon Police Department Team! Are you interested in becoming a Police Officer with the nationally accredited Avon Police Department? Now is your opportunity to join a diverse, motivated, and ...

Avon

Police Officer

Avon, CO

Join the Avon Police Department Team! Are you interested in becoming a Police Officer with the nationally accredited Avon Police Department? Now is your opportunity to join a diverse, motivated, and ...

City of Edgewater

Police Officer

Edgewater, CO

$73K - $109K/yr

Description The Edgewater Police Department is seeking enthusiastic and team-oriented individuals to immediately fill the position of POST-Certified Police Officer. The City of Edgewater is a city of ...

City of Edgewater Colorado

Police Officer

Edgewater, CO · On-site

$73K - $109K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description The Edgewater Police Department is seeking enthusiastic and team-oriented individuals to immediately fill the position of POST-Certified Police Officer. The City of ...

City of Edgewater

Police Officer

Denver, CO · On-site

$73K - $109K/yr

The Edgewater Police Department is seeking enthusiastic and team-oriented individuals to immediately fill the position of POST-Certified Police Officer. The City of Edgewater is a city of ...

City of Montrose, CO

Police Officer

Montrose, CO · On-site

$80K/yr

Police Department, Montrose, CO Job Type: Full-Time Department: Police Department Division: Police Department Patrol Opening Date: 11/12/2025 FLSA: Determined by Position 0-.99 years of P.O.S.T ...

City of Brighton

Police Explorer

Brighton, CO · On-site

Brighton Police Department explorer program. NATURE OF WORK The Police Explorer's program is designed for young men and women between the ages of 14-21 who have an interest in Law Enforcement This ...

City of Montrose, CO

Police Officer Recruit

Montrose, CO · On-site

$72K/yr

Police Department, Montrose, CO Job Type: Full-Time Department: Police Department Division: Police Department Patrol Opening Date: 03/25/2026 FLSA: Non-Exempt We are hiring now for Pre-Academy ...

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Police Department information

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How much do police department jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for police department in Colorado is $22.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.16 and $26.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Police Department vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice DepartmentPolice Officer
CredentialsVaries by department, often requires police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy training
Work EnvironmentOrganization with multiple officers, administrative staff, and facilitiesPatrol, investigation, community engagement in various locations
Employer & IndustryGovernment agency at local, state, or federal levelIndividual law enforcement personnel within a police department
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding organizational structureJob duties and qualifications

The Police Department is the organization that employs police officers. While the department oversees operations, policies, and administration, a police officer is an individual responsible for law enforcement duties within that department. The department provides the environment and resources, whereas the officer performs the day-to-day tasks of maintaining public safety.

What does a police department do?

A police department is a law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public order, preventing and investigating crimes, and ensuring community safety. Officers within the department respond to emergencies, enforce laws, conduct traffic control, and work to build positive relationships with the public. Police departments also collaborate with other agencies to address issues such as drug trafficking, domestic violence, and missing persons. Their overall mission is to protect citizens and uphold the law while respecting individuals' rights.

What are different types of jobs in a police department?

The most recognized jobs in a police department are police officers and detectives, who help prevent, enforce, and solve crimes. However, there are also a variety of clerical, technical, and administrative positions that support the department’s daily operations. Evidence technicians and other forensic specialists, who are civilian employees, help police investigate crimes and gather and analyze evidence. Counselors and victim advocates help individuals affected by crimes deal with the trauma they have experienced. Clerks maintain records and receive visitors to the department. There are also high-level officer positions, including supervisors and chiefs, who manage and lead the department.

What are some common challenges faced by new officers joining a police department, and how can they overcome them?

New officers in a police department often face challenges such as adapting to shift work, managing high-stress situations, and developing effective communication skills with the community and colleagues. Balancing the demands of the job with personal life can also be difficult, especially during the probationary period. To overcome these challenges, new officers are encouraged to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate actively in training sessions, and prioritize self-care to maintain resilience. Building strong relationships within the department and staying open to feedback can also help ease the transition and foster professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a police department, and why are they important?

To thrive in a police department, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, criminal justice knowledge, and typically a relevant degree or police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement technologies, such as body cameras, report management systems, and radio communication tools, is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, emotional resilience, and sound judgment help officers communicate effectively and handle stressful situations. These skills ensure public safety, uphold the law, and foster community trust in a demanding environment.
More about Police Department jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Police Department jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Police Department jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Police Department jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Police Department job openings:
Police Department jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Department job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,222 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

DENVER POLICE OFFICER

Denver Police Department

Denver, CO • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

DENVER POLICE DEPARTMENT: POLICE 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 recognized nationwide for modern policing, professionalism, innovation, accountability, and community partnership. DPD seeks applicants who are solution-focused, service-driven, and committed to protecting and serving one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.

Denver combines the opportunities of a major metropolitan city with immediate access to the Rocky Mountains and year-round recreation, providing an outstanding place to live, work, and build a career.

DPD offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career stability, and extensive opportunities for advancement and specialization. Officers can reach top patrol officer pay in approximately three and a half years after beginning the Denver Police Academy.


CURRENT APPLICATION STATUS

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

Please use the provided link to complete the Denver Police Officer Interest Form. Completing the interest form allows the Denver Police Recruiting Unit to provide updates and information regarding future application opportunities.

Once 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.


SALARY BREAKDOWN

Effective July 1, 2025

Starting Day One of the 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

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) assignments 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 extensive opportunities for specialization, leadership, promotion, and long-term career development.

Specialized Assignments

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

Promotional Opportunities

Officers have opportunities to advance through competitive promotional processes for:

  • 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 a commitment to others.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS
1. High school diploma or GED
2. United States citizen
3. At least 21 years of age
4. Valid driver’s license
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 the public trust.
Becoming a Denver Police Officer is more than a career—it is an opportunity to serve, protect, and make a difference.

Apply