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Police Department Jobs in Ruidoso, NM (NOW HIRING)

Village of Ruidoso

Police Officer Certified

Ruidoso, NM

$50K - $92K/yr

Under general supervision, performs a variety of routine police work for the Ruidoso Police Department, on an assigned shift. Non-exempt FLSA This position patrols the Village on an assigned shift in ...

Village of Ruidoso, NM

911 Dispatcher

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$22/hr

Monitoring of CCTV cameras throughout the Police Department and jail area Minimum Qualifications * High School Diploma or G.E.D required. * Must be eighteen (18) years of age per NMDPS * Must be a ...

Village of Ruidoso

911 Dispatcher

Ruidoso, NM

$22/hr

This position answers and reports to the Dispatch Supervisor and Support Services Lieutenant of the Ruidoso Police Department with regards to chain of command. Duties and Responsibilities The ...

Village of Ruidoso, NM

EVENT COORDINATOR

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

Work collaboratively with Village departments including Parks & Recreation, Police, Fire, Public Works, Tourism, and Administration to ensure safe and successful events. * Assist with budgeting ...

Village of Ruidoso

EVENT COORDINATOR

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

Work collaboratively with Village departments including Parks & Recreation, Police, Fire, Public Works, Tourism, and Administration to ensure safe and successful events. Assist with budgeting, vendor ...

US Navy

Surface Warfare Officer

Carrizozo, NM

... departments and billets to gain experience in operations, engineering, combat systems, and administration; frequent time at sea with demanding schedules. Work Environment Sea tours aboard surface ...

US Navy

Surface Warfare Officer

Capitan, NM

... departments and billets to gain experience in operations, engineering, combat systems, and administration; frequent time at sea with demanding schedules. Work Environment Sea tours aboard surface ...

US Navy

Surface Warfare Officer

Cloudcroft, NM

... departments and billets to gain experience in operations, engineering, combat systems, and administration; frequent time at sea with demanding schedules. Work Environment Sea tours aboard surface ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Alamogordo, NM

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Whether executing crime prevention programs or carrying out anti-terrorism measures, the Sailors working as the Navy's military police are equipped to handle any situation. Provide security on ships ...

Presbyterian Healthcare Services

EMT B-AMB

Ruidoso, NM · On-site

$15.60 - $22.12/hr

Performs department specific functions as detailed in the summary of department specific duties Qualifications: * High school diploma or GED. * Ability to read, write and follow verbal and written ...

Inn of the Mountain Gods

SECURITY OFFICER IMG

Mescalero, NM · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Sounds alarm or calls police/fire department by telephone in case of emergency. * Registers at watch stations to record time of inspection trips. * Records data such as property damage, unusual ...

Inn of the Mountain Gods

SECURITY OFFICER TC

Mescalero, NM

$15 - $17.75/hr

Sounds alarm or calls police/fire department by telephone in case of emergency. * Registers at watch stations to record time of inspection trips. * Records data such as property damage, unusual ...

All JobsPolice Department JobsPolice Department Jobs in Ruidoso, NM

Police Department information

What police job pays the most?

The highest-paying police jobs are typically specialized roles such as police detectives, SWAT team members, or criminal investigators, often earning higher salaries due to advanced skills, experience, and certifications. Leadership positions like police chiefs also tend to have the highest salaries within law enforcement agencies.

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.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Police departments typically require applicants to be at least 21 years old, and many accept candidates up to their late 30s or early 40s, depending on the department. Age limits vary by jurisdiction, but being 27 is generally not too late to pursue a career as a police officer, especially if you meet other requirements such as education, physical fitness, and background checks.

Can you work for the police department without being a cop?

Yes, police departments employ various non-sworn staff such as administrative personnel, crime scene technicians, dispatchers, and community service officers. These roles typically require specific skills or certifications but do not involve law enforcement duties like patrolling or arrests.

What kind of police positions are there?

Police departments offer various positions including patrol officers, detectives, traffic officers, K-9 units, SWAT team members, and administrative staff. Each role requires specific training, certifications, and skills such as law enforcement academy completion and physical fitness. Advancement opportunities often involve specialized units or supervisory roles.
More about Police Department jobs
What cities near Ruidoso, NM are hiring for Police Department jobs? Cities near Ruidoso, NM with the most Police Department job openings:
Police Department jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Department job openings in Ruidoso, NM as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 6% As Needed, 25% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Police Officer Certified

Village of Ruidoso, NM

Ruidoso, NM • On-site

$50K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Salary : $50,336.00 - $92,123.20 Annually
Location : 313 Cree Meadows Drive, Ruidoso, NM
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 201900058
Department: Police Department
Opening Date: 02/20/2026
Classification Summary
Great opportunity for competitive salary, excellent benefits and PERA retirement!
The Village of Ruidoso is a Drug Free Workplace.
Under general supervision, performs a variety of routine police work for the Ruidoso Police Department, on an assigned shift. Non-exempt FLSA
This position patrols the Village on an assigned shift in a radio-equipped vehicle to preserve law and order, including checking businesses and residences, discovering and preventing the commission of crimes, and enforcing state and municipal laws and ordinances.
Duties and Responsibilities
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.
  • Checks for traffic hazards and illegal or unsafe activities.
  • Responds to calls for assistance, including traffic accidents, assaults, fights, alarms, domestic disturbances, thefts, and other criminal or civil complaints.
  • Works to strengthen police/community relations and as assigned accomplishes this by using avenues such as foot or bike patrol, and responds to questions/requests from the public.
  • Intervenes in disputes, apprehends suspects, makes arrests, issues citations, identifies witnesses, conducts investigations, collects evidence, assists injured persons, and re-establishes law and order at the scene.
  • Conducts follow-up investigations.
  • Preserves crime scenes.
  • Books arrested persons in accordance with state, federal, and departmental procedures.
  • Types complaints, affidavits, warrants, writes reports, processes evidence.
  • Presents cases and testifies in court.
Other Responsibilities or Job Requirements
  • Some positions may assist with criminal investigations, intelligence gathering, and undercover work.
  • Transports suspects and persons with outstanding arrest warrants to jail facilities.
  • May train other officers
  • May serve on special assignments, such as special response team, DWI roadblocks, or narcotics task force.
  • Responsible for maintenance program of assigned vehicles and special equipment.
  • Ensures computer is backed up once a month and adheres to Village of Ruidoso IT Policies
  • Adheres to all Village of Ruidoso's policies not limited to IT, Purchasing, and Personnel Manual
  • Ensures that any on-the job injury is reported immediately and followed up with appropriate forms and actions
  • Reports any suspected fraud and/or abuse to the Police Chief or Village Manager
  • Ensures any reports of harassment are immediately reported and appropriate actions are taken.
  • The above statements are not a complete list of all responsibilities and duties performed by employees in this job. As a condition of employment, employees are required to perform other related duties and special projects as assigned.
Physical Demands
  • Ability to maintain physical condition and stamina appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities which may include sitting, standing, or walking for extended periods of time, driving or riding in vehicles.
  • Occasional pushing, pulling, lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds.
  • Occasional squatting or bending required.
  • Occasional running and jogging
Work Environment
  • Possess ability to adapt to inclement weather conditions and/or situations.
  • Ability to drive, occasionally long distances.
  • Ability to perform duties and adapt to flexible work schedules as established by management to include weekends/ holidays.
  • May be called when needed.
  • Noise level could be moderate to loud in work environment.
  • Ability to work in stressful environment and deal effectively with stress.
Travel Requirements
Normal travel - ability to travel for activities such as meetings, classes, and workshops in and out of the area. Must be able to travel by air as needed to attend training, conferences, related activities and overnight travel as required.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Certified New Mexico Patrol Officer or Certified in another state and eligible for the 3 week NM waiver program.
  • Two years of experience as a Certified Patrol Officer preferred
  • Must be able to establishing and maintaining routine working relationships with citizens, public officials, outside agencies, businesses, and employees.
  • Must possess and maintain valid New Mexico motor vehicle operator's permit of appropriate classification and endorsement as required. Must agree to maintain a satisfactory MVR and minimum requirement of insurability as required by law. MVR background checks will be conducted by the Village.
  • Must be 21 years of age for Police Officer or 21 years of age by graduation from the NMLEA, 18 years of age for Telecommunications Officer or other civilian staff
  • Must have a valid driver's license
  • Must be a United States citizen
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • For Police Officer or Telecommunications Officer, you must have the ability to become a certified law enforcement officer or certified Telecommunications Officer in the State of New Mexico within one year.
  • Use of Marijuana within the last three years will be evaluated, among other background information, to determine whether a candidate will proceed in the hiring process. All candidates must have a clean drug screen before hiring.
  • Positions within the Ruidoso Police Department, Ruidoso Area Dispatch, or Animal Control/Code Enforcement are considered Safety Sensitive positions. As such, all safety sensitive positions are subject to random testing.
  • No use in the last five (5) years of any illegal drug that would amount to a felony crime if found in possession. This includes felony prescription drugs, hallucinogens, spice, bath salts, or inhalants.
  • Any sale, manufacture, or distribution of any controlled substance as an adult (>17) will be a lifetime disqualifier. If the crime was committed as a juvenile the following factors should be considered: the frequency of the behavior, the quantity of the drugs involved, and the type of drug.
  • Have no felony convictions. Criminal activity in which applicant has been convicted of, pled guilty to, or entered a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) to any felony charge, or been involved in any pre-prosecution diversion program (PPD) as adjudicated for a felony crime committed will be permanently disqualified. Any person whose conviction has been set aside, deferred, or dismissed as a part of a conditional discharge shall be considered to have been convicted.
  • Have no misdemeanor convictions within the last three (3) years preceding their initial date of application. Any convictions within that time frame where the candidate has been convicted, pled guilty to, or entered a plea of nolo contendere (no contest) will be reviewed on an individual basis and may be cause for disqualification. This does not include traffic offenses.
  • Crimes of perjury, filing a false report, impersonating an officer, or domestic violence will be permanent disqualifiers. Any person whose conviction has been set aside, deferred, or dismissed as a part of a conditional discharge shall be considered to have been convicted.
  • Within a three (3) year period, has not been convicted or pled guilty to or entered a plea of nolo contendere to any violation of any federal, state, or local ordinance relating to aggravated assault, theft, or other crime involving moral turpitude.
  • No DWI convictions within the last three (3) years, or two or more DWI's in the most recent ten (10) year period.
  • Must not have been discharged from the United States Armed Forces under Dishonorable conditions.
  • After examination by a licensed physician, is free of any physical condition that might adversely affect his performance as a police officer or prohibit him from successfully completing a prescribed basic law enforcement training required by the Law Enforcement Training Act
  • Is of good moral character
  • Shall not falsify or omit any information from the application

The Village of Ruidoso offers a complete benefit package to full time employees, including health, dental, and vision insurance. The Village of Ruidoso belongs to the Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) and we also provide paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The Village of Ruidoso does offer several additional Voluntary insurance benefits and deferred compensation plans.
To view our Insurance Benefit Booklet offered by the Village of Ruidoso,
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To view a summary of benefits offered by the Village of Ruidoso,
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01
Are you at least 21 years of age?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a current Law Enforcement Certification?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you answered yes to the question above, indicate from what Law Enforcement Agency and the certificate number. If not applicable, type N/A
04
How many years have you been a Certified Patrol Officer?
  • No Experience
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2 years to less than 3
  • 3 years to less than 4
  • 4 years to less than 5
  • 5 years or more

05
Which of the following best describes your Microsoft Office proficiency level.
  • No Proficiency
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced

06
How many hours of advanced police training do you have?
  • Less than 100 hours
  • 100 hours to less than 200
  • 200 hours to less than 300
  • 300 hours to less than 400
  • 400 hours to less than 500
  • 500 hours to less than 600
  • 600 hours to less than 700
  • 700 hours or more

07
Do you currently possess any Instructor Certifications? ie: Active Shooter, EVOC, etc...
  • Yes
  • No

08
If you answered yes to the question above, please indicate from what Law Enforcement Agency, what courses you are certified to instruct, and certification numbers. If you answered no enter N/A.
09
Describe your proficiency level with using the following programs: Sleuth, Lexis Nexis and NCIC
  • No Experience
  • Beginner
  • Intermediate
  • Expert

10
Please indicate your level of Education.
  • Still in High School
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Associates
  • Bachelors
  • Masters
  • Doctorate

Required Question

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