Police Officer

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.

• 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;
• 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.

• 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.

• Graduated from high school or G.E.D.;
• Citizen of the United States; and
• 21 years of age on or before September 4, 2026.

Proof of State Certification as a Certified Police Officer AND proof of 400 hours of certifying basic law enforcement training school (transcripts/syllabi) must be submitted by the deadline.

• Possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license issued by the State of Iowa or evidence of equivalent mobility;
• No felony convictions or convictions for crimes involving moral turpitude;
• Free of drug or alcohol addiction;
• 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.

Email: human resources

Fax:

Mailing address:
City of Des Moines, Attn:
Human Resources Dept., 1200 Locust St., Des Moines, IA 50309