Why Des Moines PD
More Than a Job.
A career with the Des Moines Police Department means competitive pay, exceptional benefits, a tight-knit team, and the chance to make a real difference in a community that values its officers.
Compensation
Competitive Pay From Day One
You'll earn a strong salary from your first day in the academy — and it only grows from there. With incentive pay, take-home vehicle, and a generous benefits package, DMPD offers one of the most competitive total compensation packages in the region.
In the Academy
$88,384
Full pay while you train
After Field Training
$101,525
Upon FTO program completion
Lateral Entry
$101,525–$138,328
DOQ at time of hire (2026)
10-Year Maximum
$142,478
With maximum incentives
Entry Level Hiring Bonus
$3,000Lateral Hiring Bonus
$40,000Education Incentive Pay
Up to 5%Bilingual Pay
1% of baseBenefits
Benefits Built for the Long Haul
From day one, you and your family are covered. DMPD's benefits package is comprehensive — medical, dental, vision, retirement, and more.
Insurance
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
- Life insurance at 150% of annual salary
- Long-term disability insurance
- Survivor income benefit insurance
Retirement
- Washington State LEOFF 2 retirement system
- City contributes 6.52% of wages to a 401(a) Social Security replacement plan
Time Off
- 104 hours of holiday leave per year (up to 48 hours cashable each December)
- 110 hours of Kelly Time off per year
- 96–192 hours of paid vacation leave per year
- 96 hours of paid sick leave per year with monthly cash-out option
Extras
- Take-home vehicle program (within 35 miles of the city)
- 3-days-on / 3-days-off 12-hour patrol schedule
- 40 hours vacation upon hire (entry level hiring incentive)
36
Sworn Officers
33,500
Residents Served
4
Open Vacancies
24/7
Community Presence
Culture & Community
A Department That Has Your Back
Des Moines is a waterfront community on the shores of Puget Sound — midpoint between Seattle and Tacoma, home to a city-owned marina, two waterfront parks, and Highline College. It's a place where officers know their neighbors and their work has visible impact.
Under Chief Ted Boe, the department operates from a written strategic plan developed mutually with the community. We're not just answering calls — we're problem-solvers working to reduce crime and build lasting relationships.
Career Growth
Room to Grow
DMPD is a modern department with quality equipment and a supportive staff. Officers work a 3-on/3-off 12-hour schedule that provides real work-life balance. The department actively supports professional development — from education incentive pay to specialized assignments.
Patrol Officer
Start your career on patrol, building community relationships and responding to calls across Des Moines.
Specialized Units
Opportunities in investigations, Drone, community policing, and other specialized assignments.
Leadership
Sergeant and Corporal positions for officers who demonstrate leadership and commitment.
Education Incentives
Earn additional pay for your AA, BA, or graduate degree — the department rewards continued learning.
Ready to Join the Team?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Don't wait.