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State Police Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO (NOW HIRING)

Denver Police Department

Denver Police Officer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Valid state-issued driver's license * No felony or domestic violence convictions SALARY Effective July 1, 2026 Denver Police Academy Police Officer Recruit -- $75,257 Upon Academy Graduation and ...

Denver Police Department

Denver Police Officer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Valid state-issued driver's license * No felony or domestic violence convictions SALARY Effective July 1, 2026 Denver Police Academy Police Officer Recruit -- $75,257 Upon Academy Graduation and ...

Denver Police Department

DENVER POLICE OFFICER

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Valid state-issued driver's license * No felony or domestic violence convictions SALARY Effective July 1, 2026 Denver Police Academy Police Officer Recruit -- $75,257 Upon Academy Graduation and ...

Denver Police Department

DENVER POLICE OFFICER

Denver, CO · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Valid state-issued driver's license * No felony or domestic violence convictions SALARY Effective July 1, 2026 Denver Police Academy Police Officer Recruit -- $75,257 Upon Academy Graduation and ...

University of Colorado

Police Officer

Boulder, CO · On-site

Police Officer Recruits attend and successfully pass the Police Academy and the CUPD Police ... CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws ...

City of Brighton, CO

Police Recruit

Brighton, CO · On-site

$31.93/hr

Police Recruits who successfully complete the approved academy and obtain a State of Colorado Basic Peace Officer Certification will be promoted to Police Officer. This position must work well ...

City of Brighton

Police Recruit

Brighton, CO

$31.93/hr

Hiring Salary - $31.93 hourly DEFINITION The Brighton Police Recruit attends a State of Colorado Basic Police Academy chosen by the police department. The recruit attends the academy full time and at ...

City of Brighton

Police Explorer

Brighton, CO

Police Explorer Program Salary Range - $0.00 Hourly Location - Brighton, CO Job Type - Non-Paid ... A state issued ID card, driver's licenses, or a government issued passport is the preferred method ...

City of Black Hawk

Police Officer

Black Hawk, CO · On-site

$95K - $134K/yr

POLICE OFFICER (LATERAL OR POST-CERTIFIED ONLY) DEPARTMENT: POLICE REQUISITION: 1188 STATUS ... state, and municipal law. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Essential functions include: Providing law ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsState Police JobsState Police Jobs in Wheat Ridge, CO

State Police information

See Wheat Ridge, CO salary details

$34.5K

$66K

$110K

How much do state police jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for state police in Wheat Ridge, CO is $66,046.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $79,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a state police officer?

State Police are law enforcement agencies that operate at the state level in the United States. Their primary responsibilities include enforcing state laws, patrolling highways, investigating crimes, and assisting local police departments. They often have specialized units for tasks such as narcotics, criminal investigation, and traffic enforcement. State Police officers may also provide security for state government officials and facilities. Their authority typically covers the entire state, unlike local police who are limited to specific cities or towns.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a state police officer?

To thrive as a State Police Officer, you need a solid understanding of law enforcement principles, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, evidence management systems, and communication equipment is typically required. Strong judgment, resilience, interpersonal skills, and integrity help officers handle high-pressure situations and serve diverse communities effectively. These competencies ensure public safety, uphold the law, and maintain trust within the community.

What challenges do state police officers face during multi-agency operations?

State Police officers frequently participate in multi-agency operations that require coordination with local, federal, and sometimes neighboring state agencies. Challenges in these situations often include differences in communication systems, varying protocols, and aligning priorities among agencies. Officers need to adapt quickly, practice clear communication, and demonstrate flexibility to ensure successful joint efforts. These operations provide valuable experience in teamwork and often open up opportunities for professional development and advancement within the force.

What is the difference between State Police vs Highway Patrol?

AspectState PoliceHighway Patrol
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certificationHigh school diploma or GED, police academy certification
Work EnvironmentStatewide law enforcement, including criminal investigations and public safetyPrimarily highway and traffic enforcement on state roads
Employer & IndustryState government agencies, law enforcement agenciesState transportation departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search/ComparisonState PoliceHighway Patrol

While both State Police and Highway Patrol officers enforce laws and ensure public safety, State Police typically have broader responsibilities including criminal investigations and statewide law enforcement. Highway Patrol officers mainly focus on traffic enforcement and highway safety. The roles often overlap, but the scope and duties differ based on jurisdiction and agency structure.

What cities near Wheat Ridge, CO are hiring for State Police jobs?

Cities near Wheat Ridge, CO with the most State Police job openings:

State Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Police job openings in Wheat Ridge, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,046 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Denver Police Officer

Denver Police Department

Aurora, CO • On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

 DENVER POLICE AND LATERAL 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 committed to modern policing, professionalism, accountability, innovation, and strong community partnerships. DPD seeks applicants who are service-driven, solution-focused, and committed to protecting and serving one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.

Denver offers the opportunities of a major metropolitan city with immediate access to the Rocky Mountains and year-round recreation, places to live, work, serve, and build a career.

DPD offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, career stability, specialized assignments, and promotional opportunities.

CURRENT APPLICATION STATUS

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

Complete the Denver Police Officer Interest Form to receive updates and information about future application opportunities.

When 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.

BASIC REQUIREMENTS

  1. 21 years of age at the time of application
  2. United States citizen or possess a valid visa authorizing employment in the United States
  3. High school diploma or GED
  4. Valid state-issued driver’s license
  5. No felony or domestic violence convictions

SALARY

Effective July 1, 2026

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

Officers can reach top patrol officer’s pay in approximately three and a half years after beginning the Denver Police Academy.

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

Specialized Assignments

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

Promotional Opportunities

Officers may advance through competitive promotional processes to:

  • 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 commitment to others.
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 public trust.
Becoming a Denver Police Officer is more than a career—it is an opportunity to serve, protect, and make a difference.

Apply