Job Details

Police Officer

Are you looking for a meaningful career that has a positive impact on the community? If you answered YES, come join the Sparks Police Department! While carrying out the vision to implement innovative strategies to prevent crime, promote excellence in leadership and serve our community with honor, pride and privilege, you will also receive a competitive compensation package, special assignments, continuing education, and promotional opportunities.

Not sure if you have what it takes? There are resources for you! Police applicants are required to complete a series of exams as part of the Civil Service Examination process. There are two different exams in the process: a physical abilities exam, and a written exam.

Prepare for the Physical Abilities Exam: Understand exactly what is on the test. NV POST offers physical fitness programs developed for candidates to assess and improve fitness levels in preparation for the test and academy, visit the NV POST website.

• Multiple testing opportunities may be offered (physical exam only). Candidates who apply and meet the minimum position qualifications will be contacted by the police department directly to schedule their physical abilities test.
• What happens if you fail? Test again! The City of Sparks is now offering multiple testing opportunities. Additional information is provided below.

Prepare for the Written Exam: You can access a low-cost study guide or sample test here: OR contact your local community college or library for test preparation assistance and aides

Are you ready to take the next step? If so, look at the Application Tips below:

• Look at the multiple testing dates below first. Can you make any of those dates work? If so fill out an online application completely, don't leave any blanks.
• Unsure about your schedule availability? Send us an email or give us a call with your concerns. It's in your best interest to wait to apply until you know you can make any of the testing dates. If you are disqualified, you must wait 365 days to reapply.
• The Qualifications section below is your guide to understand what the City is looking for on your application. Use this to your advantage.
• One step is eliminated for you! Do not attach resumes or cover letters. The City of Sparks does not collect or review these items with the application.

This is a CONTINUOUS RECRUITMENT, this means that applications are accepted year-round. You may submit one application in a 365-day period.

Civil Service Examination Physical Abilities Exam and Written Exam

Candidates who meet minimum qualifications will be eligible for a series of examinations with the Police Department.

The first exam will be a Physical Abilities Exam. Following application, eligible candidates will be contacted to schedule. This is a pass or fail exam. If you pass, you move onto the next exam. If you fail, you can retest, but you cannot move on until you have passed.

TBA 2026 POLICE OFFICER PHYSICAL EXAM DATES * The list of dates may be subject to change.

• Wednesday, May 13, 2026 10am and 5pm PST
• Saturday, May 16, 2026 8am PST
• Wednesday, June 10, 2026 10am and 5pm PST
• Saturday, June 13, 2026 8am PST
• Wednesday, July 15, 2026 10am and 5pm PST
• Saturday, July 18, 2026 8am PST
• Wednesday, August 12, 2026 10am and 5pm PST
• Saturday, August 15, 2026 8am PST
• Wednesday, September 16, 2026 10am and 5pm PST
• Saturday, September 19, 2026 8am PST

2026 POLICE OFFICER WRITTEN EXAM *Available to candidates only after they have completed and passed the PFT. Schedule varies based on candidate availability. Apply as soon as possible to complete your application for future interviews.

Candidates who pass the Civil Service Exam (both sections) will be placed on an eligibility list that will be good for up to one year. The department will call candidates from that list as vacancies arise. Candidates that successfully complete the interview step will move onto the background step.

The background process constitutes a comprehensive investigation in which the department runs a State of Nevada and national fingerprint check as well as a Wants/Warrants check to confirm the candidate has no felony or gross misdemeanor arrests without disposition, no felony or gross misdemeanor convictions or to confirm that the applicant is not a fugitive from justice. If you have any questions, please email hrstaff@cityofsparks.us. The City of Sparks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Learn to perform a variety of peace officer duties involving the protection of life and property, enforcement of laws and ordinances, criminal investigation, crime prevention and suppression, case preparation and testimony. Provide information and assistance to the public. This is the first working level class in law enforcement expected to perform all duties required to effectively respond to and resolve the normal scope of peace officer situations.

Patrol assigned areas to ensure the security of life and property. Observe situations and deter crime by providing high visibility. Provide information to the public concerning methods for improved security. Provide multi-jurisdictional aid and support and participate in searches.

Respond to suspicious activities and answer emergency calls for service. Enforce local, state and federal laws and ordinances. Issue verbal warnings and citations. Pursue and apprehend suspects and request assistance as required; transport prisoners.

Investigate juvenile and designated adult criminal activity and incidents as the assigned detective. Interview victims, complainant, witnesses and suspects.

Coordinate crime scene control and investigation. Conduct interviews, interrogations and identify witnesses. Process crime scene and evidence collection. Store and maintain evidence and property including narcotics. Maintain photo lab. Send evidence to other law enforcement agencies as required. Provide evidence and testimony in court.

Conduct auctions for unclaimed property. Provide for the destruction of evidence including narcotics as required.

Restore order, protect life and property and maintain the peace at public gatherings and in conflict situations.

Prepare and document cases, complete reports and records and prepare and maintain logs and records.

Investigate traffic accidents and provide traffic and crowd control as necessary. Participate in special details and assignments. Organize and coordinate special assignments such as crime prevention programs in the schools and the community.

Provide emergency aid and assistance to incapacitated persons and request additional response.

Provide information, direction and other services and assistance to the public. Participate in community events and present to small or large groups. Engage in community policing efforts, use crime analysis data and other interventions to reduce and prevent crime.

Direct the activities of police support personnel in field situations. Perform other duties which may be assigned.

After the Police Officer's probationary period has been met, may participate in special training programs and in special assignments/units as assigned and available upon successfully meeting special unity eligibility requirements and completing the special assignments application process. Participating in special assignments are not required and are in addition to the essential functions described above.

Knowledge of criminal and civil law and rules of evidence

Knowledge of applicable laws, rules and regulations, general orders, policies and procedures

Knowledge of interviewing, investigation and identification techniques and equipment

Knowledge of law enforcement terminology, procedures, concepts and report formats

Knowledge of national, state and local policing trends

Knowledge of safety practices and precautions

Knowledge of safe use and proper care of firearms

Knowledge of first aid methods and procedures

Knowledge of negotiation, de-escalation, mediation and problem-solving techniques

Knowledge of computer applications and software related to the work, including Microsoft Office

Ability to observe and accurately recall places, names, descriptive characteristics and facts of incidents

Ability to remain calm and take appropriate action in difficult and emergency situations

Ability to make rapid, sound independent judgments within legal and procedural guidelines

Ability to prepare clear and concise reports, records and other written materials

Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions

Ability to practice awareness and sensitivity related to culture, mental health and disability

Ability to control dangerous animals