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Police Sergeant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Police Sergeant Job Group:Merit Required Minimum Qualifications: Possession of certification from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy as a Law Enforcement Officer, or Possession of law enforcement ...

Police Sergeant Job Group: Merit Required Minimum Qualifications: • Possession of certification from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy as a Law Enforcement Officer, or • Possession of law ...

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 ...

Police Officer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$32.79 - $42.28/hr

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 ...

Police Sergeant information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$82.3K

$128.7K

How much do police sergeant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for police sergeant in Iowa is $82,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,100.00 and $99,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police sergeant?

A police sergeant is a law enforcement officer who has attained the rank of sergeant. As a police sergeant, you are entrusted with more supervisory duties. Your responsibilities include overseeing patrol officers and agents, developing training tools for new officers and departmental personnel, and directing officers on assignments. You evaluate the efforts of those ranked below you and report progress or issues to your superiors. You also compile reports about your department activities and goals.

How does a police sergeant balance supervisory duties with fieldwork responsibilities?

A Police Sergeant typically divides their time between supervising officers, handling administrative tasks, and responding to incidents in the field. While they are responsible for overseeing patrol teams, reviewing reports, and ensuring departmental procedures are followed, they also provide on-scene leadership during emergencies or critical incidents. Balancing these duties requires effective time management and strong communication skills, as Sergeants must support their team’s development while also maintaining operational readiness. This dual role offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for further advancement within the department.

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

To thrive as a Police Sergeant, you need strong leadership abilities, in-depth knowledge of law enforcement procedures, and typically several years of policing experience supplemented by supervisory training. Familiarity with law enforcement management systems, incident reporting software, and completion of police academy or relevant certifications are common requirements. Excellent communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills set outstanding Police Sergeants apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively leading teams, ensuring public safety, and responding appropriately in high-pressure situations.

What is the difference between Police Sergeant vs Police Lieutenant?

AspectPolice SergeantPolice Lieutenant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certification, some experienceSame as Sergeant, often with additional leadership training
Work EnvironmentSupervises officers on patrol, manages shift activitiesOversees multiple units, involved in strategic planning
Employer & Industry UsagePolice departments, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies

The main difference between a Police Sergeant and a Police Lieutenant lies in their level of responsibility. Sergeants typically supervise patrol officers and manage daily shift activities, while Lieutenants oversee larger units and participate in departmental planning. Both roles require similar credentials, but Lieutenants usually have more experience and leadership training.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Police Sergeant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Police Sergeant jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Police Sergeant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,291 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:Police SergeantJob Group:MeritRequired Minimum Qualifications: Possession of certification from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy as a Law Enforcement Officer, or
Possession of law enforcement certification in another state and successful completion of all application and examination requirements as outlined in Iowa Administrative Code 501-3.8(80B), and
Two years experience at the Police Officer or equivalent level; or AA/AAS in Criminal Justice or Police Science or 60 semester hours/90 quarter hours from an accredited college or university and one year experience at the Police Officer or equivalent level.Special Required QualificationsValid U.S. Driver's LicenseJob Description:
The Department of Public Safety at Iowa State University is seeking a qualified candidate for the Police Sergeant role who will act as shift supervisor in the absence of the Lieutenant.

This person will be responsible for:

  • Assigning tasks

  • Reviewing reports

  • Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the shift

  • Updating the shift Lieutenant regarding shift activities

  • Providing input into employee evaluations

  • Providing backup for other public safety staff at the scene of incidents and accidents as requested or required

This position may also be subject to rotation through other Sergeant assignments. Under general supervision, exercises functional supervisory control over a unit of Police Officers and Trainees, Public Safety Officers, and Public Safety Dispatchers as directed to ensure proper performance of duties. Provides back-up for other Public Safety staff at the scene of accidents and incidents.

Iowa State University Police Department employees will support the Department's vision and mission by operating in a fair, unbiased manner, which respects the rights and dignity of all individuals. Department employees' everyday actions are guided by the Department's values of Respect, Integrity, Caring, Honor, Excellence and Service (RICHES) and be grounded in the highest ethical and professional standards. Department employees are expected to work in partnership with the campus and area communities to provide leadership in solving community problems, preventing crime and providing a safe environment to fulfill the mission of the University. Employees will strive for excellence in fulfilling the Department's Mission and Vision Statements, values and goals.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working in a university law enforcement agency

Applicants successfully hired who are certified law enforcement officers will be eligible for recruitment incentive payments* in the total amount of $10,000.

*Full details and terms of payment will be provided in payment agreements for those successfully hired.

Characteristic Duties and Responsibilities

Monitors activities of subordinate staff by driving through their assigned zones on campus and by other means observing and reviewing their work. Reports violation of departmental policies to Lieutenant and recommends corrective action.

Directs and instructs shift officers and advises subordinate staff on departmental policies. Provides the communication link from the Lieutenant and department administration to the Police Officers and back.

Evaluates strengths and weaknesses of Police Officers for input into performance appraisals.

Interviews, recommends hiring and supervises the training of new employees; checks and evaluates the performance of subordinate personnel, makes recommendations with respect to personnel actions.

May assume duties of the shift commander in the absence of the Lieutenant.

Performs the duties of Police Officer.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of state criminal and traffic code, city ordinances, and Constitutional law.

Skill in observing and reviewing the work of Police Officers.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties of Security Guard, Police Officer, and Public Safety Dispatcher.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of Application/Cover Letter

Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:

  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans

  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans

  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)

  • Life insurance and long-term disability

  • Flexible Spending Accounts

  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts

  • Employee Assistance Program

  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:RegularNumber of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:Full timePay Grade:22Original Posting Date:August 17, 2026Posting Close Date:September 6, 2026Job Requisition Number:R19784

Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.

General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.


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