Police Officer - Lateral

Be partof something bigger. Join Moorhead Police Department.

The Moorhead Police Department is a respected regional law enforcement agency committed to integrity, high standards, and strong community partnerships. We are seeking experienced lateral officers who are ready to serve and protect in a supportive, team‑focused environment.

Moorhead PD emphasizes accountability, respect, partnership, and growth. As a lateral officer, you’ll work in a department that supports you, appreciates your experience, and gives you opportunities to serve the community in a positive, meaningful way.

2027

Salary Range: $38.09 to $53.65 per hour(annual $79,227 - $111,583)

• Accelerated pay incentive: 6‑month step increase to Step 5, then annual increases
• Yearly anniversary-date step increases
• Negotiable starting wage DOE
• Accelerated Field Training Program
• 12-hour shifts (5-on/5-off, 2-on/2-off) with every other weekend off for a consistent life/work balance
• Career growth opportunities: SWAT, K9, SRO, Investigations, specialty units, instructor roles
• State‑of‑the‑art equipment, technology, and new fleet vehicles
• Physical fitness incentive and on‑site workout facility
• Strong support from department leadership, city leaders, and the community
• Generous PTO accrual:
  • 80 hours vacation per year(up to 240‑hour carryover)
  • 12 paid sick days per year (up to 960‑hour maximum)
  • Increased accruals with years of service

• 100% paid health insurance premium (single, plus-one, and family depending on plan)
• Dental, vision, life insurance
• Flexible spending plan (HAS)
• Minnesota PERA pension
• Deferred compensation
• Wellness program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 11 floating paid holidays
• Visit our benefits page for more information

With a population of almost 46,000, Moorhead is the largest city in northwest Minnesota and part of the vibrant Fargo‑Moorhead metro (population 290,000). We offer affordable housing, short commutes, strong community support for law enforcement, and easy access to the Minnesota lakes area — perfect for year‑round recreation. Moorhead blends small‑town comfort with big‑city amenities, making it an excellent place to live, work, and build a career.

The Moorhead Police Department is made up of 63 sworn officers who are dedicated to high standards, integrity, and strong community partnerships. Our work is guided by our mission: we keep Moorhead safe by serving with integrity, upholding the highest standards, and strengthening the community’s trust. Our vision is to support a community where people feel safe, valued, and respected, and we carry that mindset into everything we do.

Visit our “Who We Are” page to learn more.

This protective service role involves enforcing laws, investigating criminal activity, preserving public safety, preparing reports, maintaining records, and testifying in court. Officers conduct patrols, respond to calls, manage investigations, engage with community members, and may serve in specialized units.

• Associate/Technical degree in criminal justice or related field OR
• Successful completion of MN POST Reciprocity Exam by start date OR
• Eligible to take the exam by start date
• Minnesota POST license required by start date
• CPR/First Responder certification
• Valid driver’s license

• At least 1 year of licensed peace officer experience
• Successful completion of a field training program
• Good standing with current or most recent employer (no recent discipline)

Includes modern law enforcement principles, city geography, department policies, firearms proficiency, report…