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Police Officers Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

NOTE: Iowa C ertified 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 ...

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

The Norwalk Police Department is looking for dedicated, service-minded professionals who are ... Our officers work proactively to keep neighborhoods safe, respond to emergencies, investigate ...

The Norwalk Police Department is looking for dedicated, service-minded professionals who are ... Our officers work proactively to keep neighborhoods safe, respond to emergencies, investigate ...

Police Officer

Waukee, IA · On-site

$36.50 - $48.03/hr

Police Opening Date: 06/09/2026 JOB PURPOSE The City of Waukee is looking for Police Officers to join our team. A Waukee Police Officer performs law enforcement and crime prevention for the safety ...

Police Officer

Waukee, IA

$33.75 - $44.41/hr

JOB PURPOSE The City of Waukee is looking for Police Officers to join our team. A Waukee Police Officer performs law enforcement and crime prevention for the safety and protection of life and ...

Adapts instruction using practice examinations, memory training exercises, and situational scenario analysis to support aspiring police officers preparing for written entrance examinations across ...

Police Officer Exam Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using practice examinations, memory training exercises, and situational scenario analysis to support aspiring police officers preparing for written entrance examinations across ...

Police Officer - Lateral

Marion, IA · On-site

$69K - $98K/yr

Officers protect life and property, maintain public order, prevent and investigate crime, respond to emergency and non-emergency calls, and engage in proactive community policing. Officers must ...

Police Officer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$71K - $95K/yr

Police Opening Date: 07/03/2026 Residency Requirement?: Yes Residency Requirement Map: Description ... Starting at $71,450 per year for non-certified officers and up to $95,050 per year for Iowa ...

Join the Mason City Police Department. Are you passionate about serving your community and starting ... Starting at $71,450 per year for non-certified officers and up to $95,050 per year for Iowa ...

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Showing results 1-20

Police Officers information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$58.4K

$97.2K

How much do police officers jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for police officers 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 the difference between Police Officers vs Security Guards?

AspectPolice OfficersSecurity Guards
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, police academy training, sometimes college courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentPublic law enforcement settings, patrols, crime scenesPrivate property, businesses, events, static posts
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, law enforcementPrivate security companies, businesses
Common Search & ComparisonPolice Officers vs Security Guards

Police Officers and Security Guards both work to ensure safety, but Police Officers have law enforcement authority, undergo extensive training, and work in public settings. Security Guards typically focus on protecting private property, with less rigorous training and limited authority. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career or security solution.

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 police academy training. The hiring process can be competitive and may include written exams, interviews, and psychological evaluations. Candidates often need to demonstrate good communication skills, integrity, and the ability to handle stressful situations.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Police Officers jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Police Officers job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Officers job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,374 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

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 of crime, and the enforcement of laws and ordinances. 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 people and property, enforcing motor vehicle and criminal laws, and promoting good community relations. Employees work within the framework of existing department. Standard Operating Guidelines, Departmental Rules and Regulations, SIRG Standard Operating Guidelines and the city policies. Supervision is received from a superior officer who reviews work through reports and observation of results obtained.

Upon completion of the Iowa Law Enforcement academy, officers will work 12-hour shifts, averaging 86 hours every two weeks.

The successful candidate will possess the following:

Education/Training/Certifications

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Possess and maintain valid driver's license
  • Successfully pass all Civil Service examinations / processes and be placed on the eligibility list
    • Pass a psychological exam
    • Successfully complete an oral interview, background investigation, and polygraph examination
    • Be able to legally possess a firearm and ammunition

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations
  • Ability to exercise individual judgment and initiative
  • Ability to think clearly and act effectively
  • Knowledge of police practices, tactics, techniques and methods

To review the full job description, please click here.