Police Sergeant

Iowa State University; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Iowa State University is seeking a Police Sergeant to act as shift supervisor in the absence of the Lieutenant. The role oversees the day-to-day operations of the shift, assigns tasks, and reviews reports to ensure proper performance of duties.

Applicants must possess Iowa Law Enforcement Academy certification or equivalent, with relevant experience and a valid driver’s license. The department emphasizes integrity, fairness, and service to the campus community.

Qualifications

• Two years experience at the Police Officer or equivalent level or AA/AS with 60 sem hrs/90 qtr hrs and one year experience.
• Certification from Iowa Law Enforcement Academy or other state certification and completion of Iowa 501-3.8(80B) requirements.
• Valid U.S. Driver’s License required.

Responsibilities

• Assigning tasks and supervising day-to-day shift operations.
• Reviewing reports and providing input into employee evaluations.
• Overseeing shift activities and maintaining communications with the shift Lieutenant.
• Providing backup for other public safety staff at incidents and accidents.
• May rotate through other Sergeant assignments as needed.
• Directs and instructs shift officers and advises staff on department policies.

Skills

Leadership

Knowledge of laws

Observation & reporting

Education

AA/AS in Criminal Justice or Police Science or 60 sem hrs/90 qtr hrs

Job description

Position Title:

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 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 Qualifications

Valid U.S. Driver’s License

Job 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.

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 [e-mail], or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

22

Original Posting Date:

August 17, 2026

Posting Close Date:

September 6, 2026

Job 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. [phone], email [e-mail].

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.