Your Passion. Elevated Here.

Join Moorhead Police

Becoming a police officer is more than a career—it’s a calling to protect, serve, and build trust within our community.

We don’t just enforce laws; we safeguard lives, uphold justice, and strengthen the bonds that make Moorhead a safe and welcoming place. Whether you’re seeking a lifelong profession or a way to make a meaningful impact, we offer a role where your integrity, courage, and commitment truly matter. We are looking for motivated individuals ready to serve with honor, compassion, and professionalism.

The City of Moorhead recruits highly motivated, service-oriented team players to prevent crime, respond to emergencies, and engage in proactive community policing. Our work extends beyond city limits as we collaborate with regional partners to provide effective, coordinated public safety.

Camaraderie: Join a team built on trust, respect, and collaboration—where every member has your back.

Growth & Development: We provide comprehensive training, ongoing professional development, and opportunities for advancement.

Competitive Pay & Benefits: Our package includes health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition reimbursement. Learn more on our benefits page.

Work-Life Balance: Flexibility and balance are key to our employee experience.

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The Hiring Process

Joining the Moorhead Police Department means becoming part of a team committed to professionalism, integrity, and community service. Our hiring process is designed to ensure we select individuals who share these values and are prepared for the challenges and rewards of a career in law enforcement.

To join the Moorhead Police Department, you must be Minnesota POST eligible at time of hire. For more details on becoming a Police Officer in Minnesota and training requirements, visit the Minnesota POST Board website.

If you have questions, please contact a Moorhead Police Recruiter.

Applicants are first evaluated based on their application and resume. Qualified candidates will move forward to a two-step interview process: a panel interview followed by an executive interview with department leadership. Interviews are typically conducted in person, with a virtual option available if needed.

Candidates who successfully complete the interview process may receive a conditional offer of employment. This offer includes pay and benefit details for full transparency and is contingent upon completing all remaining steps in the hiring process, including a comprehensive background investigation, psychological evaluation, medical examination, and other required assessments.

Candidates who advance beyond the interview stage will undergo a thorough background investigation to ensure integrity and suitability for service. This process is conducted by Crescent Investigation, a trusted partner in law enforcement screening.

Candidates who receive a conditional offer and pass the background investigation must complete additional evaluations to confirm readiness for duty. These include:

    • Job Function Test & Medical Examination to verify the ability to perform essential duties safely and effectively.
    • Psychological Evaluation to assess mental fitness and suitability for law enforcement work.
    • Drug and Alcohol Screening to ensure compliance with department standards and a commitment to a substance-free workplace.

Upon successful completion of all stages in the hiring process, candidates receive a formal offer of employment — marking the start of a rewarding and impactful career with the Moorhead Police Department.

Why Choose Moorhead PD?

The Moorhead Police Department offers more than a job — it’s a chance to make a real impact in a growing, diverse community. We lead the region through our commitment to community policing, advanced training, and strong partnerships, while fostering innovation, professional growth, and work-life balance.

Department Support
Our community, Mayor, City Council, and City Leadership strongly value and support the Moorhead Police Department.

Training
We offer comprehensive, on-going training and professional development for our officers. 

Career Development
Opportunities for advancement through specialized assignments and leadership programs.

Wellness Support
Access to an on-site fitness facility, wellness coordinator, and fitness incentives to support your health.

Inclusive and Professional Culture
We uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and diversity while serving our community.

Team Support and Recognition
We foster positive relationships and recognize outstanding service and milestones.

Competitive Pay and Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package and competitive salary.

Equipment and Resources
Officers receive state-of-the-art equipment and cutting edge technology in an effort to ensure officers are sufficiently equipped to safely protect our community.

Competitive Salary (Patrol Officers)

      • 2026 Annual Range: $74,742 - $105,267*

      • 2027 Annual Range: $79,227 - $111,583*

        *The City offers higher wage compensation for Detectives and 1st Class status. 

Leave Benefits
Officers earn the following leave benefits:

      • Vacation

      • Sick

      • Holiday (equivalent to 11 days off annually)

      • Compensatory time options

For a full list of benefits for employees of the City of Moorhead, visit our Human Resources page.

Retirement Benefits
Minnesota PERA Retirement Vs. North Dakota Pension

      • Moorhead Pension:

        • 30 years of service = 90% retirement salary

        • Guaranteed cost-of-living increases

      • North Dakota Pension:

        • 30 years of service = 52.5% retirement salary

        • No guaranteed cost-of-living increases 

Additional Benefits

      • Uniforms and equipment provided

      • On-site workout facilities

      • Physical fitness incentives


         

 

 

Join a department with over 125 years of exceptional service and a commitment to innovation and officer well-being.

Modern Facilities & Equipment

  • State-of-the-art Law Enforcement Center
  • Physical fitness workout area & individual lockers
  • Modern squad cars with advanced technology and indoor parking
  • Evidence processing lab with cutting-edge tools
  • Uniforms and safety gear provided (custom-fitted body armor and external carriers)
  • Forward-thinking technology to enhance efficiency and safety

Work Schedules

  • 12-hour shifts
    • Officers work 5 on, 5 off, 2 on, 2 off rotations.
  • Shifts bid annually by seniority; assignments change every six months
  • Two-team system (A & B)
  • Schedule promotes work-life balance

Moorhead Beats

  • City divided into 4 patrol beats
  • Officers can bid for preferred shift and beat
  • Beat system fosters strong community relationships

Opportunities to Grow Your Career

At the Moorhead Police Department, we believe in helping our officers advance and specialize in areas that match their skills and interests. Here are some of the career development opportunities available:

  • K9 Handler
  • Red River Valley SWAT Team
  • Bike Patrol
  • Field Training Officer
  • Investigations
  • Peer Assistance
  • Street Crimes Unit
  • School Resource Officer
  • Specialized Instructor (Defensive Tactics, EVOC, Firearms, etc.)
  • Honor Guard
  • Bomb Squad
  • Drug Recognition Expert
  • Negotiations
  • Other Internal Positions