Police Officer

Ispaonline; West Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 77,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

West Des Moines Police Department is seeking dedicated individuals for a full-time police officer role in West Des Moines, IA. Candidates will work with the community to solve problems, patrol, enforce laws, investigate complaints, and prepare detailed reports.

A strong commitment to respect, integrity, and accountability is essential, with opportunities to serve a diverse community and advance through the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Deadline: November 10, 2026.

Qualifications

• Be 21 years old on or before written examination.
• High school diploma or GED.
• U.S. citizenship by written examination date.
• Valid Iowa driver’s license with a good driving record.
• Pass a physical test per Iowa Law Enforcement Academy.
• Good moral character; no felony or crime involving moral turpitude.
• Not addicted to drugs or alcohol.
• Able to use force as required by duties.
• Uncorrected vision at least 20/100, corrected to 20/20, color vision adequate.
• Normal hearing; pass medical examination.
• Not previously decertified.
• No decertification acts.

Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas to protect life and property; work with the community to solve problems.
• Enforce laws and regulations; investigate complaints; prepare detailed reports.
• Perform other law enforcement related activities as required.

Skills

Critical thinking

Problem-solving

Written & verbal communication

Community-focused service

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Full time

Deadline: November 10th, 2026

West Des Moines, IA

$77,205-$108,096

Description

We are seeking motivated, community-focused and service-oriented individuals, including certified officers and non-certified applicants who are eager to make a meaningful difference. Become a part of a team that prioritizes respect, integrity, quality service, and accountability – and contribute to a greater purpose. Police Officers perform diverse tasks focused on working with the community to solve problems; protect life and property by patrolling assigned areas; enforce laws and regulations; investigate complaints; prepare detailed reports; and perform other law enforcement related activities.

Requirements

Qualified applicants MUST:

• Be twenty-one (21) years of age on or before the date of written examination


• Possess a high school diploma or GED


• Be a citizen of the United States on or before the date of written examination


• Possess a valid (Iowa) driver’s license at the time of hire and have an acceptable driving record


• Successfully pass a physical test adopted by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy


• Be of good moral character and have not been convicted of a felony or crime involving moral turpitude (Police Officer Candidate Disqualifiers)


• Not be addicted to drugs or alcohol


• Not be opposed to use of force


• Have uncorrected vision of not less than 20/100 in both eyes, corrected to 20/20, and color vision consistent with the occupational demands of law enforcement


• Have normal hearing in each ear, hearing is considered normal when, tested by an audiometer, hearing sensitivity thresholds are within 25dB measured at 500Hz, 1000Hz, 2000Hz, and 3000Hz averaged together


• Meet physical standards through a medical examination by a physician


• Not have been previously decertified in Iowa or another jurisdiction


• Not have committed any act that could result in decertification under 501 – Chapter 6

Successful candidates will have the ability to connect with and collaborate alongside individuals from various backgrounds. Additionally, they will demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills, along with proficient writing and speaking abilities. See online job description for complete details. All applicants must meet the minimum standards for Iowa Law Enforcement Officers as established by legislation and the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications but are not successful in this process are encouraged to apply again for future opportunities.