Police Officer

Overview The Bozeman Police Department is hiring Police Officers to protect life and property through enforcing federal, state, and local laws with integrity and professionalism. Hiring Process Phone interviews will occur week of July 27, 2026. The next step will be held in Bozeman, MT, week of September 14 – 18, 2026. Montana Physical Abilities Test – Monday, September 14, 2026. Initial oral interviews and practical exercises – September 14 – 16, 2026. Additional oral interview – Thursday, September 17, 2026. Background process, psychological testing, and medical evaluations – Friday, September 18, 2026. Incentives and Work Week Work week consists of four 10‑hour shifts. Anticipated start date: December 11, 2026. BPPA is the bargaining unit. Fair Labor Standards Act status: Non‑Exempt. Essential Work (Illustrative) Enforce all local, state, and federal laws within the jurisdiction of the City in coordination with other police departments. Patrol assigned areas, monitor activity, and take appropriate action, including making arrests, issuing citations, and issuing written warnings. Provide emergency medical attention to citizens during call responses. Investigate misdemeanor crimes, traffic crashes, and other incidents and take enforcement action as warranted. Maintain a highly visible presence within the community to deter crime and provide citizen assistance. Collect evidence at crime scenes, interview witnesses, and present testimony in open court. Ensure safe and efficient operation of vehicles and equipment in hazardous traffic and weather conditions. Communicate and coordinate with other officers, supervisors, and other departments to maximize effectiveness and efficiency of interdepartmental operations. Perform duties consistent with the role and function of this classification. Entry Level High School Diploma or GED; the combination of experience and training must provide equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities. Some previous law enforcement experience preferred. Lateral Transfer High School Diploma or GED and a current, valid Montana POST basic law‑enforcement certificate at the time of hire. Officers holding a current POST certificate are exempt from attending the basic law‑enforcement academy; officers from outside Montana must take and pass the state equivalency exam. Completion of a law‑enforcement basic course and at least one year of experience in law enforcement, including successful completion of a one‑year probationary period. Qualifications Citizen of the United States; at least 18 years of age. Fingerprinted and searched; must not have a federal or state conviction that could result in imprisonment. Of good moral character and conduct personal life above reproach as determined by a thorough background investigation. High School graduate or possess a GED. Must possess or be eligible to obtain a Montana driver’s license at time of hiring. Be of sound physical and mental health. Pass the written examination and Montana Physical Abilities Test. Pass oral interviews and additional testing on April 13 – 17, 2026 that demonstrate necessary communication skills, temperament, motivation, and other characteristics. Maintain certification or eligibility to be certifiable by POST as a full‑time or part‑time peace officer. Maintain lawful possession of a firearm and ability to provide credible testimony in a court of law. Employment Offers Offers are conditional upon satisfactory responses to medical, hearing, vision, psychological examinations, an extensive background investigation, and possibly a drug test. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Substantial knowledge of federal, state, and local laws governing police activities, including criminal and civil laws and ordinances. Substantial knowledge of department policy, protocols, and practices; including equipment, weapons, and emergency vehicles. Substantial knowledge of tactical response, rescue operations, and court procedures. Ability to exercise good judgment, flexibility, and creativity in decision making. Ability to maintain a calm and controlled demeanor in life‑threatening or emergency situations. Ability to operate a vehicle safely in hazardous traffic and weather conditions. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, law enforcement personnel, emergency responders, and the public. Ability to prepare accurate reports, testifying in court as required, and to use logical and creative thought processes to develop solutions. Consistently performs assignments in accordance with the City of Bozeman’s Core Values of Integrity, Leadership, Service, and Teamwork. Application Process Complete a City of Bozeman application online at www.bozeman.net/jobs. Attach cover letter and resume. Complete supplemental questionnaire. Contact Captain Ben King, 406‑582‑2242, Benjamin.King@bozemanmt.gov; Amanda Keith, Human Resources, 406‑582‑2367, amanda.keith@bozemanmt.gov. #J-18808-Ljbffr