Officer Hiring Information

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Become a Bozeman Police Officer

Come for the job, stay for the opportunities.

Located in beautiful Bozeman, Montana, the Bozeman Police Department has a proud history of employing a diverse workforce. The competitive salary and excellent benefits provided to Bozeman Police Officers help our officers achieve both their personal and professional goals. We also offer incentives like degree and lateral pay.

2025 Salary Data

Entry-level starting salary: $76k + benefits
Out-of-state Lateral salary: up to $95k + benefits
In-state Lateral salary: up to $98k + benefits

Although there is no requirement that police officers live within a certain distance of the city, new officers learn that Bozeman and the surrounding area encompasses a variety of friendly, attractive neighborhoods. The local area also has many recreational activities like hiking, biking, and skiing. Bozeman is truly a great place to live, work, and enjoy all of the cultural and recreational opportunities in southwest Montana.

What’s more, Bozeman is also a great place to raise a family, with the lowest crime rate of all the major Montana cities and excellent schools. The Bozeman School District is rated the top school district in Montana, and our schools are ranked as some of the best schools in the nation. The BPD works in close partnership with the school district, with five School Resource Officers keeping our schools as safe as possible.

Is BPD’s hiring process demanding? Yes, but police officers play such an important role in the Bozeman community that we strive to select only the best applicants for our department. If that’s you, welcome to the BPD team!

For more information, review the categories below.

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for a position with the Bozeman Police Department as a police officer, applicants must meet the minimum following qualifications:

Be a citizen of the United States
Be at least 18 years of age
Be fingerprinted and a search made of the local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record
Must not have been convicted of a crime for which the person could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary
Be of good moral character, and conduct personal life above reproach as determined by a thorough background investigation
Be a high school graduate or possess a G.E.D. certificate
Possess or be eligible to obtain a Montana driver’s license at time of hiring
Be of sound physical and mental health

Please note that meeting the above minimum qualifications does not guarantee an opportunity to participate in the rest of the selection process. Applications are screened and prioritized prior to the start of all hiring processes.

Disqualifiers

The following disqualifiers will automatically make you ineligible to become a Bozeman Police Officer:

Convicted of a crime for which the person could have been imprisoned in a federal or state penitentiary.
Convicted of a crime of domestic violence in any state that would be a conviction pursuant to §45-5-209 M.C.A., Partner or Family Member Assault.
Convicted of a crime of domestic violence as defined by 18 U.S.C. § 921(a) (33) A).
Dishonorably discharged from the armed forces and unable to possess a firearm in accordance with 18 U.S.C. § 922.
Demonstrated a pattern of violence, including domestic violence, regardless of whether or not resulting in conviction
Past or ongoing affiliation with, and/or support of, an organization or group which fosters anti-government beliefs or any organization that supports hatred toward any protected class or advocates violence or disruption of government, or whose organizational or individual goals are contrary to the interests of public safety and welfare
Demonstrated a pattern of bias constituting racial, gender, age, religion, ethnic, national origin, sexual orientation, sexual harassment or other discrimination
Evidence that the applicant has willfully provided false information, misleading information or omitted information during the application or background investigation process
Fail to possess a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma
Been registered as a violent or sexual offender in any state
Unable to work rotating shifts, weekends and/or holidays
Fail to satisfy pre-employment medical requirements

Please note that the list above is not comprehensive.

Lateral Officer Information

Yes, we hire lateral officers! We currently have lateral officers from other areas in Montana and several other states around the country. Lateral level police officers are experienced, certified police officers who have worked for other law enforcement agencies in Montana or other states.

If not POST certified in Montana, lateral candidates should first refer to the Montana Department of Justice Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) office for additional requirements for applying as a lateral police officer. If not currently employed with a law enforcement agency, lateral candidates must still be certified as a law enforcement officer in either Montana or another state. Lateral candidates must have worked for a law enforcement agency for at least one full year. Federal law enforcement officers, military police officers, correction/detention officers, jailers, special or reserve officers/deputies or similar positions do not qualify to apply as a lateral candidate.

Under the Bozeman Police Protective Association's contract, lateral officers are eligible to receive up to 5 years of credit for prior experience when determining their starting rate of pay. At the Chief of Police's discretion, officers can begin anywhere from what a first to fifth year current Bozeman Police officer is paid. Out-of-state applicants applying as a lateral do NOT need to contact POST or obtain any Montana certification before applying. The first step is to apply directly to our agency. If hired as a lateral, officers will be exempted from attending the Montana Law Enforcement Academy Basic Program but will be required to submit their certifications and pass an equivalency exam.

Selection Process

Unless we run a lateral-only hiring, lateral and non-lateral officers participate in the same hiring process.

Application Screening

After the application process closes, applications are reviewed for completeness and accuracy, as well as ensuring ensure candidates meet minimum requirements. Candidates are also screened and prioritized based on numerous criteria, including:

Education beyond high school
Prior law enforcement experience
Public service experience
Customer service experience
Volunteer service
Prior military experience

Phone Interview

After initial screening is complete, candidates will complete a telephone interview to determine who will be invited to participate in our hiring week here in Bozeman.

Hiring week is the only time we require candidates to travel to Bozeman. All candidates must successfully pass each portion below before moving on in the process.

Written Testing

The test takes a total of 75 minutes. It contains four separately timed sections. The mathematics, reading comprehension, and grammar sections are multiple-choice and true-or-false questions. The incident report writing section requires answers written in complete sentences.
Failure to meet the minimum passing score eliminates a candidate from the selection process.

Physical Abilities Test

The physical abilities test used is the Montana Physical Abilities Test (MPAT). The MPAT test measures the strength, flexibility and endurance law enforcement officers need to perform the essential functions of their positions.
Video example of the MPAT
Failure to complete the MPAT in 6:30 eliminates a candidate from the selection process.

Oral Board Interview

Candidates must satisfactorily complete a structured interview before a panel, involving questions related to being a Bozeman Police officer.
Results from all candidate interviews will be ranked to determine which candidates continue in the process.

Chief's Oral Interview

Candidates must satisfactorily complete a structured interview with members of the Bozeman Police Department command staff.
Results from all candidate interviews will be ranked to determine which candidates continue in the process.

Candidates continuing past this portion will be given a conditional job offer, contingent on completing the rest of the process.

Psychological Evaluation

Selected applicants must complete and pass an extensive psychological evaluation and personality testing.

Background Investigation

Selected applicants must pass an extensive background investigation which includes, at a minimum:

Criminal history records check
Driving records history check
Previous employer reference checks
Credit check
Fingerprint check
Verification of application materials and qualifications

Physical Examination

Selected applicants must pass an extensive physical examination, which includes the following tests and requirements:

Review of medical history
Vital Signs
Complete physical examination
Vision tests: (corrected/uncorrected; near/far; Farnsworth D-15; peripheral; depth perception; Ishihara)
- Corrected distant vision minimum must be 20/40 in each eye and 20/20 binocularly.
- Corrected near vision of no less than 20/40 in the better eye.
- Uncorrected distant vision with glasses or hard contacts should be 20/100 binocularly.
- Successful long-term soft contact lens wearers shall not be subject to the uncorrected criteria. Lens wearers require a letter from an optometrist or ophthalmologist stating that they have been a successful wearer for at least 12 months.
Hearing tests:
- Hearing Thresholds: no greater than 25 dB average or less loss in each ear at frequencies of 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 Hz.
- Symmetrical Hearing: no greater than 15 dB average variation at frequencies of 500, 1000 and 2000 Hz and no more than 30 dB average variation at frequencies of 3000, 4000 and 6000 Hz.
Spirometry test
Resting EKG
One view chest x-ray with radiologist read
VO2 Submaximal treadmill test (and possibly a Stress Echocardiogram, based on cardiac risk stratification)
Health screen panel, to include CBC, fasting lipids, metabolic panel, uric acid, TSH, iron

Education and Training

Initial Training

After being hired, all officers start with three weeks of initial training, which covers various topics.

Montana Law Enforcement Academy (MLEA) Basic Program

All entry-level officers attend the basic program, which consists of 12 weeks of academic and physical training.
All lateral officers from other states must submit their certifications and pass an equivalency program to be exempt from attending the basic program.
All lateral officers certified in Montana are exempt from participating or attending any portion of this program.
MLEA website.

Field Training and Evaluation Program (FTEP)

All officers participate in a 15-week field training program, partnering with experienced field training officers (FTOs).
Lateral officers will begin this program immediately after the initial training.
Entry level officers will begin this program after graduating from the MLEA Basic Program.

Probationary Period

All officers must successfully complete a one-year probationary period to continue their employment with the Bozeman Police Department.

Ongoing Training

All officers receive ongoing training and certifications in numerous areas and disciplines.

Specialized Duty Training

Officers assigned to specific duties or tasks within patrol receive training unique to their duty.

This includes training specific to such duties as Field Training Officer, Mountain Bike Officer, Motorcycle Officer, Special Response Team member, Senior (Intoxilyzer) Operator, and Crisis Intervention Team member. It also includes opportunities to be trained as a departmental instructor in areas like firearms, defensive tactics, and Police Vehicle Operations Course.

Specialized Assignment Training

Officers assigned to other units or assignments within the department receiving training unique to that assignment. This includes such positions as Property Crimes Detective, Crimes Against Persons Detective, School Resource Officer, Community Resource Officer, and Missouri River Drug Task Force Detective.

Promotional Training

Officers who are promoted within the department receive training regarding that position. This includes training such as first line supervision classes, the "sergeant academy," the Montana Executive Leadership Academy, and the FBI National Academy.

Salary, Benefits, Retirement, and other links

How to be a Successful Candidate

PREPARATION:You must prepare for EVERY stage of the hiring process. This includes the initial testing process, interviews, background investigation, etc. Prepare for commonly asked questions by referring to various resources and talking with others currently working in law enforcement. Maintain physical fitness and practice wellness. Diligent preparation often makes the difference between successful and unsuccessful candidates, and we notice both prepared and unprepared candidates. Be noticed for the right reasons!
FOLLOW APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: You must meticulously read and follow all instructions. Application and background forms must contain all required information. Failure to follow written or verbal instructions reflects poorly on the applicant. In some cases, it may result in disqualification. Public safety positions demand rigorous attention to detail and thoroughness. Sloppy, incomplete, and error-filled paperwork may indicate an applicant’s lack of attention to detail and an overall lack of professionalism.
HONESTY: In all phases of the selection process, be completely truthful. This means providing total and complete information. Information provided at each step of the process is validated against information that was previously provided. Dishonesty in any form will result in immediate disqualification. This is the #1 reason why candidates are eliminated from the hiring process. Integrity, honesty and trustworthiness are essential. Honesty is your responsibility.
COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS: Oral and written communication skills are critical in public safety occupations, and we emphasize them in the testing process. Read the job description and qualifications thoroughly and ensure that you highlight your relevant skills and experience in your application and resume. Applications can only be scored based on what you write. During oral interviews, make eye contact with all panel members and practice concise, confident answers. Oral communication skills and the ability to establish rapport with an interview panel can be developed through practice and honest feedback from others.
KNOWLEDGE OF OCCUPATION & DEPARTMENT: Applicants must have a solid knowledge of the specific duties and demands of the profession, as well as knowledge of the Bozeman Police Department and our jurisdiction. Good sources to review include the department and city website, the department’s monthly and annual reports, conversations with department employees and friends in law enforcement, and ride-a-longs. Failure to possess basic knowledge about the Department or the position for which you are applying indicates an applicant who is neither serious nor passionate about the profession or the Bozeman Police Department.
PUNCTUALITY: Arrive at all appointments at least 15 minutes early. Develop a habit of being early. Arriving late for scheduled appointments could result in disqualification from the process. Anticipate any possible cause for a delay. Poor time management skills will reflect negatively on applicants.
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ATTIRE: Dress and groom professionally and conservatively during any interview. Business attire is usually best. The Bozeman Department expects professional, conservative dress and grooming. If you are unsure what that is, ask someone who knows. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression
CANDOR & SINCERITY: Demonstrate sincerity, candor, integrity, conviction and honesty. If you are not yourself, it will show. Avoid canned responses. We want to see who you are, how you think and what you value.
KNOW YOURSELF: Know why you want to work in public safety and how your background, skills, and aptitude indicate success in performing specific duties. The Bozeman Police Department wants to know your capability and potential to address the various issues and challenges faced in public safety and in our community.
LISTEN CAREFULLY: Be an active listener, especially during the interview process. Listen carefully to the questions asked and think before you respond. Take a few seconds to formulate a thoughtful, concise answer. Active listening is a valuable skill in all jobs, especially police work.

Meet Our Recruitment Team

detective Lindsay Shepherd	Officer Connor Foley	Officer Pete Tartaglia

Detective Lindsay Shepherd began her career in law enforcement when she joined the Bozeman Police Department in 2010 as an entry-level officer. After graduating from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy, she was assigned to the Patrol Division, where she served until moving to the Detectives Unit in 2024. In addition to her investigative role, Detective Shepherd has taken on several specialized responsibilities. She serves as a Field Training Officer, Co-Coordinator of the county’s multi-disciplinary Critical Incident Stress Management Team, and is certified as a Fire Investigation Technician through the International Association of Arson Investigators. To connect with Detective Shepherd or ask her questions, please email her at lindsay.shepherd@bozemanmt.gov.	Born and raised in Southwest Montana, Officer Connor Foley began his career in public safety as a Detention Officer with Butte-Silver Bow. In 2016, he joined the Bozeman Police Department and graduated from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy before being assigned to the Patrol Division. He served in patrol until 2021, when he transitioned to his current role as a School Resource Officer. In 2024, he became a K-9 Officer, completing an intensive handler training program to pilot the Department's new SRO K-9 program. Officer Foley also plays an important role in training and education within the department, serving as a Field Training Officer and an instructor for the Police Vehicle Operations Course. To connect with Officer Foley or ask him questions, please email him at connor.foley@bozemanmt.gov.	Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Officer Pete Tartaglia joined the U.S. Army after high school, serving three years overseas in Korea and Afghanistan. Afterward, he spent over four years with the Albuquerque Police Department, serving on the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and as a Crisis Intervention Officer. In 2020, Officer Tartaglia relocated to Bozeman, seeking a smaller community and winter activities like snowboarding. He joined the Bozeman Police Department and was assigned to the Patrol Division, where he has worked various shifts and taken on roles as a Field Training Officer (FTO) and a member of the Defensive Tactics Cadre. To connect with Officer Tartaglia or ask him questions, please email him at pete.tartaglia@bozemanmt.gov.

detective Lindsay Shepherd

Officer Connor Foley

Officer Pete Tartaglia

Detective Lindsay Shepherd began her career in law enforcement when she joined the Bozeman Police Department in 2010 as an entry-level officer. After graduating from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy, she was assigned to the Patrol Division, where she served until moving to the Detectives Unit in 2024.

In addition to her investigative role, Detective Shepherd has taken on several specialized responsibilities. She serves as a Field Training Officer, Co-Coordinator of the county’s multi-disciplinary Critical Incident Stress Management Team, and is certified as a Fire Investigation Technician through the International Association of Arson Investigators.

To connect with Detective Shepherd or ask her questions, please email her at lindsay.shepherd@bozemanmt.gov.

Born and raised in Southwest Montana, Officer Connor Foley began his career in public safety as a Detention Officer with Butte-Silver Bow. In 2016, he joined the Bozeman Police Department and graduated from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy before being assigned to the Patrol Division. He served in patrol until 2021, when he transitioned to his current role as a School Resource Officer. In 2024, he became a K-9 Officer, completing an intensive handler training program to pilot the Department's new SRO K-9 program.

Officer Foley also plays an important role in training and education within the department, serving as a Field Training Officer and an instructor for the Police Vehicle Operations Course.

To connect with Officer Foley or ask him questions, please email him at connor.foley@bozemanmt.gov.

Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Officer Pete Tartaglia joined the U.S. Army after high school, serving three years overseas in Korea and Afghanistan.

Afterward, he spent over four years with the Albuquerque Police Department, serving on the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and as a Crisis Intervention Officer.

In 2020, Officer Tartaglia relocated to Bozeman, seeking a smaller community and winter activities like snowboarding. He joined the Bozeman Police Department and was assigned to the Patrol Division, where he has worked various shifts and taken on roles as a Field Training Officer (FTO) and a member of the Defensive Tactics Cadre.

To connect with Officer Tartaglia or ask him questions, please email him at pete.tartaglia@bozemanmt.gov.

Mountain Life, Meaningful Work: Why BPD Was the Right Move for Officer Tartaglia

Be Part of Something Bigger: How Sergeant Chaffins Feels at Home in the Field & Stream

Officer Hiring FAQs

FAQs

Do I have to live within the City of Bozeman to work for the Bozeman Police Department?

No. There is no requirement that officers live in the City limits or within a specific distance of the Law & Justice Center. When considering housing locations, officers should consider such things as seasonal road conditions.
Do officers get paid during training and while attending the Montana Law Enforcement Academy?

Yes. Officers are paid from the day they are officially hired, the first day of their initial training.
Are officers required to purchase their own equipment or uniforms?

No. The Bozeman Police Department provides all uniforms and equipment.
Are patrol officers assigned their own patrol vehicles?

No. Most patrol vehicles are shared by officers from opposing shifts. Vehicles are left at the Law & Justice Center when not in use.
How long after the application closing date will I know if I’ve been selected for the testing and interview process?

The application screening process generally takes 4-5 weeks. You’ll be contacted via phone or email soon after.
Can my written test scores or Montana Physical Abilities Test score be used from another process?

No. We require each applicant to take both the written test and the Montana Physical Abilities Test during our hiring process to ensure equity.
What is your policy regarding tattoos, piercings, grooming and overall appearance?

Read our Personal Appearance Policy (PDF).

More FAQs

Contact

If you have any questions or want more information, please contact Captain Benjamin King at benjamin.king@bozemanmt.gov or call 406-582-2242.

City Of Bozeman

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