THE BEST JOB IN THE STATE PATROL

Flying for the State Patrol isn’t just a job, it’s the best one there is. As the only air asset in the state of Iowa, the aviation unit plays a critical and deeply rewarding role in public safety. With the unique ability to locate missing persons from the air, each mission holds the potential to reunite families and change lives. Every flight is a privilege and for these trooper pilots, there’s simply nothing that compares.

Iowa State Patrol

DRIVEN TO RISE

Since we last checked in, this young trooper has been on the move. Now promoted to Trooper 2, Riley Galvin is back on the road doing the job she loves. She continues to grow as a leader and an instructor. Her passion for Jiu Jitsu has helped her advance as a defensive tactics and Taser instructor and she has proudly earned her blue belt along the way. Riley’s proving every day that this career is where she belongs and she’s just getting started.

Iowa State Patrol

THE BEST KEPT SECRET

One of the best-kept secrets in the Iowa State Patrol is the Executive Protection Unit. Troopers in this unit get unique opportunities. They travel, attend major events, and receive special training. The job is highly professional, but it also has unexpected benefits. Troopers often have better work-life balance. They have more time with their families and can explore new opportunities within the Iowa State patrol.

Iowa State Patrol

IOWA COAST CONNECTION

Trooper Magana is from the West Coast. He brought his military experience and work with a small-town agency to the Iowa Department of Public Safety. Wanting to grow his career, he joined DPS for the many opportunities it offers. Being part of this team pushes him to be better because he works alongside skilled professionals.. When he is off duty, he enjoys hunting with friends and building strong bonds with his coworkers.

Iowa State Patrol

RECONSTRUCTING THE STORY

Crash reconstruction is more than a job. It gives troopers the chance to use their investigative skills to find answers. By studying evidence and data, they learn what happened at the scene. This work brings justice and answers to the people of Iowa. It is an exciting role for troopers who want to grow their skills and enjoy problem-solving and detailed work.

Iowa State Patrol

SERVING IOWA & LIVING FULLY

Being part of the Iowa State Patrol offers a strong work-life balance centered on family. It allows you to work hard while on duty and enjoy your time off. Whether spending time outdoors or being with loved ones, the career makes it possible to enjoy life in Iowa beyond the job.

Iowa State Patrol

RELENTLESS JUSTICE IN MAJOR CRIMES

These major crimes detectives are some of the best at their jobs. They are careful, determined, and focused on their mission. Every case reminds them why their work is important: to bring justice, keep communities safe, and protect the people of Iowa. For one detective, this mission is personal, he wants his daughter and family to grow up in a safer, stronger Iowa. Their work is about more than solving crimes; it’s about creating a better future, one case at a time.

Division of Criminal Investigation

MAKE YOUR CASE HERE

The Division of Criminal Investigation offers a challenging and rewarding career. Agents work major crimes, cyber cases, and other important investigations across Iowa. They receive special training and have many chances to grow. If you want a career that makes a real difference every day, DCI is the place to be.

Division of Criminal Investigation

AFTER THE SMOKE CLEARS

As part of Iowa’s State Fire Marshal Division, these Marshalls focus on fire investigations and explosive cases. They piece together complex cases to get answers and protect communities in Iowa. Outside of work, Lucas Ossman stays active by coaching track and cross-country. He finds purpose not only in his cases, but also in helping the kids who make every day on the field meaningful.

State Fire Marshal

A VOICE FOR THE FRONT LINE

Erica Klett is more than a small-town dispatcher. She found her calling behind the scenes. Dispatching helped her find her purpose, grow in her career, and build strong friendships. For Erica, it isn’t just a job, it’s a career that changed her life.

Administrative Services

DATA AT WORK CRIME ANALYST

Crime analysts help agents with active cases. They look up and review information to find important details. Their work helps solve crimes. At the Iowa State Department of Public Safety, crime analysts do many different tasks and fill many roles.

Administrative Services

Sworn Officer Positions

Application process is closed.

Next application process coming January 2026

To apply for a sworn officer position, please complete the link below. The application process will close on February 15th, 2026.

Peace Officer Candidate (Non-Sworn)

To apply for a Peace Officer Candidate (non-sworn) position, please complete the link below.

Civilian Positions

If you are interested in working with Iowa DPS in a civilian role, please visit the link below.