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Police Officer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$40.69 - $50.03/hr

Iowa Certified Police Officers selected for the lateral training officer program will participate in 4 to 6 weeks of knowledge, skills, and performance assessment, along with skills enhancement ...

Police Officer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$40.69 - $50.03/hr

Applicants passing the Cooper Test will take the Police Officer Selection Test (POST) written examination. All candidates meeting the minimum requirements will be invited to participate in the Cooper ...

The City of Ottumwa is looking for our next police officers! Under supervision of a Sergeant or higher authority, Police Officers are responsible for the protection of life and property, prevention ...

Police Officer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$32.79 - $42.28/hr

Police Officers may work in a variety of assignments within the Department. A police officer is responsible for providing for public safety by maintaining order, responding to emergencies, protecting ...

Police Officer

IA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

As a Police Officer with the City of Norwalk, you'll do more than enforce laws-you'll serve as a trusted public servant, problem solver, and community partner. Our officers work proactively to keep ...

As a Police Officer with the City of Norwalk, you'll do more than enforce laws-you'll serve as a trusted public servant, problem solver, and community partner. Our officers work proactively to keep ...

Police Officer

Waukee, IA · On-site

$36.50 - $48.03/hr

A Waukee Police Officer performs law enforcement and crime prevention for the safety and protection of life and property in the City of Waukee. The City of Waukee is recognized as one of the fastest ...

Police Officer

Waukee, IA

$33.75 - $44.41/hr

A Waukee Police Officer performs law enforcement and crime prevention for the safety and protection of life and property in the City of Waukee. The City of Waukee is recognized as one of the fastest ...

Police Officer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

Submit your application and start your journey to becoming a Police Officer in Mason City. * Physical & Written Testing : If you're a non-certified officer, you'll take both a physical agility test ...

Police Officer Exam Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Police Officer Exam tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Police Officer Exam tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Police Officer Apply now Job no: 494216 Work type: Staff Full-Time Location: Elon Main Campus Categories: Police & Safety Title: Police Officer Position Type: Staff Full-Time Days Per Week: Monday ...

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Showing results 1-20

Police Officer information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$58.4K

$97.2K

How much do police officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for police officer in Iowa is $58,374.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police officer?

Police officers are law enforcement professionals responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, preventing crime, and protecting citizens and property. They patrol communities, respond to emergencies, investigate incidents, and make arrests when necessary. Police officers also engage with the community to build trust and ensure safety. Their duties can vary based on their assignment and jurisdiction, but their primary goal is to uphold the law and serve the public.

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

To thrive as a Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement procedures, criminal law, physical fitness, and typically must complete police academy training and obtain relevant certification. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, body cameras, patrol vehicles, and incident reporting systems is standard. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, critical thinking, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set exceptional officers apart. These skills are crucial for maintaining public safety, effective problem-solving, and upholding trust within the community.

What does a police officer do?

The particular duties of a police officer depend primarily on the jurisdiction in which they serve. In large cities, officers are typically assigned general job duties or are appointed to a department or unit that covers certain types of crimes, such as murder, fraud, rape, or drug-trafficking. These units have special objectives, and the officers within the unit are trained to investigate these specialized crimes. Officers in co-ops, townships, and other rural settings often handle all law enforcement tasks, from basic traffic infractions to home invasions to murder cases. The primary job of a police officer is to keep the neighborhoods and streets safe.

What are some common challenges police officers face during their shifts, and how do they typically manage them?

Police officers often encounter unpredictable and high-pressure situations, such as responding to emergencies, diffusing conflicts, or dealing with distressed individuals. Managing stress, maintaining clear communication, and adhering to protocols are essential for handling these challenges effectively. Officers typically rely on teamwork, ongoing training, and support from their colleagues and supervisors to navigate difficult scenarios and ensure both public safety and their own well-being.

What is the difference between Police Officer vs Sheriff Deputy?

AspectPolice OfficerSheriff Deputy
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certification
Work EnvironmentCity or municipal police departments, urban areasCounty jails, rural areas, county law enforcement
Employer & IndustryCity governments, local law enforcementCounty governments, local law enforcement
Common Search & ComparisonPolice OfficerSheriff Deputy

Police Officers and Sheriff Deputies share similar qualifications and work environments, often performing law enforcement duties in different jurisdictions. Police Officers typically serve city areas, while Sheriff Deputies work in county settings, including rural regions and jails. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital to local law enforcement agencies.

How hard is it to get hired as a police officer?

Getting hired as a police officer typically involves meeting minimum requirements such as age, education, and background checks, passing physical fitness tests, and completing a police academy training program. The selection process can be competitive, with many applicants vying for limited positions, and often includes written exams, interviews, and psychological evaluations.

Is 27 too late to become a police officer?

Becoming a police officer at age 27 is generally feasible, as many departments accept applicants in their late 20s and beyond. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical and background tests, and complete police academy training, which can be started at various ages. Age limits vary by department, but 27 is often within the acceptable range for entry-level applicants.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Officer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Police Officer jobs in Iowa?

For Police Officer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Police Officer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Police Officer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Police Officer jobs in IA?

For Police Officer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Police Officer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,374 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Police Officer

City of Des Moines

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$40.69 - $50.03/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


City Of Des Moines (Iowa) rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

General Statement of Duties The City of Des Moines is seeking applicants interested in a career as a Police Officer with the Des Moines Police Department. If you are at least 21 years of age (by September 4, 2026), a problem solver who wants to work with people from all cultures, races and economic backgrounds, and have good moral character and integrity, we welcome your application. Acceptable Experience and Training Current Iowa certified law enforcement officers with the appropriate sworn, post-academy experience qualify for a Police Officer lateral transfer as outlined below: No less than 400 hours of certifying basic law enforcement training school; Two years of experience as a certified Police Officer in the State of Iowa after graduating from academy without a break in service of more than 12-months from the appointment date; and Candidates must have a valid Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Certification in good standing.

NOTE: Iowa Certified Police Officers selected for the lateral training officer program will participate in 4 to 6 weeks of knowledge, skills, and performance assessment, along with skills enhancement training. Those who successfully complete the lateral training officer program will enter field training. Officers who are deemed less prepared for field training and solo patrol responsibilities may be required to attend the full 24-week academy.

Current out-of-state certified law enforcement officers with the appropriate sworn, post-academy experience must meet the below requirements: Proof of State Certification as a Certified Police Officer No less than 400 hours of certifying basic law enforcement training school; Two years of experience as a Certified Police Officer after graduating from academy and without a break in service of more than 12-months from the appointment date and with the ability to become Certified with the State of Iowa within 120 days of appointment date. NOTE: Out-of-state Certified Police Officers will attend a full 24-week academy. Entrance Level Applicants Graduated from high school or G.E.D

Citizen of the United States; and 21 Years of age on or before September 4, 2026. Use the links below for Police Officer Applicant Testing Resources: 2026 Police Officer Recruitment Packet Cooper Test Instructional Video Cooper Assessment Preparation Guide (physical fitness test) POST Study Guide (written exam) For additional information and resources, visit the Police Department recruitment page at dsm.city/joinDMPD. Your application must be submitted online by 4:00 p.m

on Monday, September 4, 2026. Items listed below must be attached to your online application or submitted separately to and Human Resources by the indicated due dates. Documents Required for a complete application by 4:00 p.m

on Monday, September 11, 2026: Photocopy of driver's license Proof of U.S. Citizenship (such as a photocopy of one of the following: U.S. Birth Certificate from state or county, U.S

Passport, Certificate of Citizenship, or Naturalization Certificate) High school diploma (or other proof of high school graduation) or G.E.D. and College transcripts, if any References - names and contact information of 3 personal and 3 professional references Police Officer Physical Conditioning Waiver (See 2026 Police Officer Recruitment Packet) Authority for Release of Information -must be notarized (See 2026 Police Officer Recruitment Packet) DD214 Form for military service, if any (If you are unable to submit your DD214 by please contact the City's Human Resources Department with expectation of when it will be available) DMPD Personal History Statement. Certified Police Officers only - Current and Former Police Officer Packet

**In addition to the above required documents, if you are an Iowa Certified Police Officer or an Out-of-State Certified Officer the below documents are also required to be submitted by the deadline: Proof of State Certification as a Certified Police Officer AND proof of 400 hours of certifying basic law enforcement training school (transcripts/syllabi). ** All of the above documents must be legible. **REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION MAY BE EMAILED, FAXED, HAND DELIVERED OR MAILED TO HUMAN RESOURCES.

EMAIL: humanresources@dmgov.org Fax: 515-237-1680 HAND DELIVERED OR MAILED City of Des Moines Attn: Human Resources Dept. 1200 Locust St. Des Moines, IA 50309 Summary Of Benefits Required Special Qualifications Possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license issued by the State of Iowa or evidence of equivalent mobility; and No felony convictions or convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude; and Free of drug or alcohol addiction; and Meet minimum requirements to be a law enforcement officer consistent with Iowa Code chapter 80(B) and its administrative rules

All appointments will be conditional upon the passage of medical, physical fitness, and psychological exams required by the State of Iowa. The medical exam includes a screening for drug use. Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only) Class Specifications | Police Officer | Class Spec Details (governmentjobs.com)


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