Police Officer

Police Officer

The City of Lakeville, a rapidly growing community in the south metro, is looking for Police Officer candidates to join our team. We seek individuals who thrive in a collaborative environment, demonstrate professionalism, and are passionate about serving the public. Our core values focus on hard work, fun, responsibility, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. If these align with your values, we encourage you to apply. Applicants must be POST licensed or eligible to be licensed by October 2, 2026. Recruitment Schedule Applications and resumes are due by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for August 3-4, 2026, with a second interview for invited candidates August 6, 2026. The anticipated start date is October 12, 2026. About our City Nestled amongst numerous lakes and an extensive park system, Lakeville offers a vibrant lifestyle across its 38.2 square miles. As one of the fastest growing cities in Minnesota, and the largest within Dakota County, our population is booming- reaching an estimated 73,000 residents. The Lakeville Police Department serves a diverse community, encompassing three school districts (Lakeville, and portions of Rosemount and Farmington). Our city boasts a thriving business landscape, with a robust industrial park and several big-box retailers, ensuring a variety of law enforcement experiences.

About our Department The Lakeville Police Department offers a rewarding career path for dedicated individuals seeking to make a real difference. We foster a collaborative environment where officers can truly know their city while also owning their beat within our four designated sectors. Our core values are hard work and professionalism. We're a team of over 100 strong, comprised of sworn officers and essential support staff who are all dedicated to the community we serve. Our headquarters is a modern 70,000-square-foot facility brimming with the latest technology. A secure underground garage keeps our fleet of modern patrol vehicles – both marked and unmarked – ready for action. Our fleet also includes specialized units like K-9 squads and crime scene investigation vehicles.

Our commitment to public safety begins with our commitment to you. As a Lakeville Police Officer, you will also have premier access to the brand-new First Responder Skills Training (FiRST) Center —a state-of-the-art facility where you will train safely, realistically, and consistently. We ensure you are equipped, confident, and ready for whatever the shift brings. Join a department that invests heavily in your operational readiness, tactical skills, and well-being. If you are looking for an agency that prioritizes your safety and continuous professional growth with elite-level training, your career belongs here.

At the Lakeville Police Department, we believe in fostering strong relationships with the community we serve. Throughout the year, you'll have the opportunity to connect with residents at a variety of events. These include National Night Out, the First Responders Community Picnic, Safety Camps, Shop with a Hero, and even Lakeville's annual community celebration, Pan-O-Prog.

Major Areas of Accountability

1. Respond to police calls and/or emergencies, both off-duty and on-duty, as directed. Operate vehicles properly under both emergency and tactical conditions.
2. Handle arrest situations and procedures as appropriate. This may include the apprehension of violators or providing appropriate warnings to suspects.
3. Monitor and control hazardous roadway conditions and perform immediate action to remedy hazardous conditions; enforce traffic laws and other ordinances; and assist stranded motorists.
4. Respond to traffic accidents and triage scenes. Provide rescue help and emergency first aid treatment as necessary and provide support to other agencies as directed.
5. Conduct initial review of investigations including taking statements and gathering information or physical evidence as required. Serve warrants and subpoenas as directed.
6. Respond and react to various complaints and calls for assistance as appropriate or directed.
7. Complete required reports and related documents for investigations, accidents, and preparation for court.
8. Interact with victims, witnesses, survivors, and outside agencies in order to maintain effective community relations. Communicate appropriate information to help make the public aware of special areas of concern.
9. Monitor and report on vehicle condition and appearance. Request necessary repairs. Restock vehicle with supplies when appropriate.
10. Perform such other duties as are consistent with the tasks of the position and as may be assigned by the Chief of Police, his designee, or the City.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in law enforcement, criminal justice or a related field; OR
• An Associate's degree in law enforcement, criminal justice or a related field;
• Eligible to be licensed as a peace officer by the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.).
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must successfully complete a physical exam, psychological assessment, drug and alcohol screening, and background investigation. No felony convictions.
• Knowledge of State Statutes and local ordinances.
• Demonstrated verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge and experience in computer operations, including word processing.
• Ability to cope with situations professionally, courteously and tactfully and with respect for the rights of the citizen.
• Ability to acquire skill in the use and care of firearms.

• Knowledge of modern police service delivery and investigation methods and procedures.
• Knowledge of recent developments, current literature and sources of information regarding modern police methods, techniques, and records.

City of Lakeville is an Equal Opportunity Employer.