WE’RE HIRING!

Certified/Lateral Police Officer Applications Open Now

Image hover effect image — 1st Year

$78,890 Salary
$1,183 Education Bonus
$3,660 OT & Shift Differential*
$11,143 Paid Insurance Premiums
$9467 City Retirement Contribution
Total = $104,344

Police Officer

$78,890 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$104,344*

Detective

$103,362 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$133,264*

Master Police Officer Badge — 10 Years

$110,714 Salary
$1,661 Education Premium
$6,864 Overtime & Assignment Pay*
$11,910 City Paid Insurance Premiums
$13,286 City Retirement Contribution
Total = $144,434

Master Officer

$110,714 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$144,434*

Sergeant

$131,288 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$165,243*

Lieutenant

$148,000 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$178,630*

Commander

$162,000 Annual Salary +
Total Compensation Package =
$194,739*

*Compensation reflects 2023 salary rates. Overtime, Assignment Pay, On-Call Pay, and Shift Differential amounts are approximate and may vary.

JOIN THE FORCE — ARVADA POLICE DEPARTMENT

There’s a deep-rooted pride in becoming an officer. It’s a distinct accomplishment and crowning achievement. Our department knows that being a police officer requires a specific set of skills – skills that are learned, cultivated, and perfected over time. We take that training very seriously. We are Built Blue.

That’s why we’re looking for people who are a breed apart from the typical applicant. If you are that person – looking for a challenging and rewarding career, and want to serve in a nationally recognized city just outside of Denver – we want to hear from you.

GET HIRED SOONER WITH OUR PRE-ACADEMY PROGRAM

We prepare you for success in your career with the Arvada Police Department by providing:

Academy Preparation Training
Physical Fitness Programs
Local Geography
Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) Training
Policy & Procedure Training

All while receiving a full salary with benefits!

3 Ways to Contact Us - Message, Phone, or Text

Send us a message or request information:

Call a Recruiter

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Why Arvada PD?

The Arvada Police Department has been setting the standard of excellence since 1945. Named a CALEA Flagship agency, the Arvada PD prides itself on its dedication to accreditation, internal standards, and strong community relationships. Here’s how we do it:

Training and Equipment

Providing world-class training for rescues, driving, firearms, and more, along with cutting-edge mobile technology, state-of-the-art cars, and uncompromising safety gear.

Community Policing

Strong community relations make us who we are. We’re in touch with those we serve 24/7 in-person and online.

Professionalism

Our department has been CALEA certified since 1986 and every one of our officers has a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Right Size, Right Place

The Arvada PD is the right size with room to grow. Located minutes from Denver and the Rocky Mountains, it is an idyllic location.

The Basics

At the Arvada PD, we’re committed to respect for the law, our community, and one another. We are dedicated to service, professionalism, community engagement, public safety—and we will always strive for excellence. Check out the following requirements to see if you have what it takes to join our diverse and inclusive team and have a meaningful police career with extraordinary benefits.

Police Job Requirements

In order to apply for a police job, you must meet these qualifications:

Police Job Disqualifications

If you have any of the following, you are not eligible to work for the Arvada PD.

You are at Least 21 Years Old And...

You are a United States Citizen or possess proper I-9 documentation; also must be able to communicate effectively in written and spoken English.

Criminal History

If you have been convicted of any felony, domestic violence, or any other disqualifying misdemeanor as identified by Colorado POST.

You have a Bachelor's Degree or Higher

There are no exceptions to our 4-year degree rule. If you’re graduating soon, let us know!

Problematic Driving History

Applicants must have a current driver’s license. Additionally, we will not accept anyone who has any citation for reckless driving within the last 5 years, regardless of plea disposition.

You can Pass a Medical Evaluation and Background Check

This isn’t a physical fitness test and we aren’t just looking for criminal histories. We want to know that you are healthy, mature, self-disciplined, and ready to take on a challenging career.

Drug or Alcohol Use

We have a zero tolerance policy for those who have used pot within the last year, had a DUI(s) in the past five years, committed prescription fraud, and other like offenses.

You Meet the Requirements of Colorado POST

All sworn employees of the Arvada Police Department must obtain Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training Certification.

Offensive Behavior

We pride ourselves on having Officers who uphold the strong character of the City of Arvada. You will be disqualified if you’ve ever falsified a written report, committed perjury, or had prior conduct that could bring discredit upon the Department.

Arvada Police Department Career Paths

Explore our diverse options and discover your next career path. Click on any police career path to learn more about the job. Want to see them all? Check out our police job descriptions page.