Missoula Entry-Level Police Officer Testing Information

Missoula Entry-Level Police Officer Testing Information

The Missoula Police Department is seeking motivated, community-minded individuals to join our team as entry-level police officers. This is your opportunity to build a rewarding career in public service while living in a city that offers unmatched natural beauty, a strong sense of community, and an exceptional quality of life.

Why Missoula? Located in the heart of western Montana, Missoula is a vibrant city of approximately 78,200 residents. Known as the "Garden City," Missoula is surrounded by mountains and wilderness and is nestled at the confluence of three scenic rivers. It's a place where outdoor recreation, culture, and community come together. Whether it's kayaking after your shift, hiking on your day off, or enjoying a summer evening in a bustling downtown, Missoula offers a lifestyle that few places can match.

With year-round recreational opportunities including skiing, mountain biking, fishing, and camping as well as a thriving arts scene and the University of Montana, Missoula offers a unique blend of culture, community, and an ideal place to raise a family. Why the Missoula Police Department? When you join the Missoula Police Department, you're not just starting a job you're starting a career. We're committed to your success and development. You'll be part of a team that values professionalism, integrity, and service to the community. Starting Pay : Starting wage is $42.63 / hour ($88,686 annually). Wage increases to $45.83 / hour ($95,338 annually) as of July 1, 2026. Additional wage increase + Associate's degree .5% pay increase + Bachelor's degree 1% pay increase.

Competitive Benefits : + Generous police retirement after 20 years of service + Patrol shift schedule that is specifically designed to promote a healthy work / life balance + 3 weeks paid vacation each year at the entry level + 8 hours of paid sick leave accrual each month + 12 paid holidays each year + Health insurance for employee, spouse and dependents Career Development / Opportunities : + Officer development by seeking to provide 120 hours of training per year (falls on workdays) + Leadership pathways with incentive pay + Opportunities to advance into specialty positions, including : + Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) + Detective Division + Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) + K-9 Unit + Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) + Motors / Traffic Unit + School Resource Officer (SRO) + Business Improvement District Officer (BID) + Public Information Officer

Residency Requirement & Qualifications for Law Enforcement Officers : + All sworn police officers must reside within 60 miles of the Missoula city limits at the time of hire + Peace Officer Employment, Education, And Certificate Standards, MCA (7-32-303)

SOMEDAY STARTS NOW! For more information and to register for the Police Officer testing, visit : Police Officer Applicant Testing on October 25, 2025. Can't make the October 25th testing? Speak to a recruiter about an alternative testing date.

This summary outlines the benefit programs; actual benefits may vary depending on bargaining unit and employment status. The City of Missoula will reward your contributions to our community with competitive compensation and generous benefits, including but not limited to : + Market-Competitive Salary + Work / life balance, including the possibility of flexible schedules and remote work opportunities + $0 premium for health and dental coverage for employees and affordable premiums for family coverage + $10,000 Employer-sponsored Accidental Death and Dismemberment Life Insurance Policy + Options for supplemental life, disability, critical illness, and accident + Constitutionally guaranteed retirement plan with the City contributing 8.77% of salary on your behalf and the ability to contribute to a supplemental deferred compensation program + Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays + Pre-tax flexible spending accounts + The City of Missoula may qualify you to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Look here to learn more and understand whether you may be eligible.

Additional benefits package information is available here.

Employer City of Missoula Address 435 Ryman Street Human Resources Missoula, Montana, 59802 Phone 406-552-6130