Missoula Entry-Level Police Officer Testing Information

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.