Police Officer Eligibility List
Are you ready to grow with us? The Cottage Grove Police Department is actively recruiting top-tier candidates to establish an eligibility list for the position of Police Officer. We are looking for dedicated individuals ready to make a difference in a community-oriented environment.
THE COMMUNITY
Located in the east central part of Dane County, the Village of Cottage Grove is a thriving community of approximately 9,470 residents. As the gateway between the Madison metro area and the I-94 Madison/Milwaukee corridor, we offer the perfect blend of access and atmosphere. Our village is home to top-rated schools, beautiful parks, diverse residential settings, and a growing commercial district.
THE DEPARTMENT
Led by Chief Mark W. Garry II, our agency is currently comprised of twenty full-time sworn officers with one vacancy and two full-time support staff. The groundbreaking for a new modern police department is March of 2026. We are a department on the rise, and we invite you to join our team as we continue to grow alongside the community.
Opportunities for Specialization:
We encourage our officers to develop their careers. You will have opportunities to participate in various departmental specialties, including:
- Field Training Officer (FTO)
- Bicycle Patrol
- Use of Force Instructor
- Additional specialized roles as the agency expands
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
- 2026 Salary Range: $64,012.14 – $82,733.22
- Lateral Transfers: We value your experience. The current contract includes provisions for lateral transfers to be eligible for accelerated pay and vacation.
- Work-Life Balance: Our schedule is designed for balance: 8.5-hour shifts with a 5-days-on / 3-days-off rotation.
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Comprehensive Benefits Package:
- Wisconsin Retirement Fund (WRS)
- Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
- Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Sick Leave
- Longevity Pay
- 4 Personal Days
- Officer Wellness Program
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
THE ROLE
As a Cottage Grove Police Officer, you will perform essential law enforcement functions in a community-focused setting.
- Enforcement: Preventive and directed patrol enforcement of Federal, State, and Local laws.
- Response: Respond quickly and effectively to both emergency and non-emergency calls.
- Investigation: Obtain, verify, and report on critical information.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizen.
- Age: Minimum 21 years of age.
- Education: High School diploma and 60 college credits.
- Certification: Eligible for Wisconsin Law Enforcement Standards Board Certification.
- Legal/Medical: No felony or domestic abuse convictions; ability to possess a firearm. Vision correctable to 20/20 and good physical condition.
- Skills: Valid driver’s license with a good driving record. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Ability to multitask and operate standard law enforcement computer systems.
HIRING TIMELINE (2026)
- Application Deadline: March 20 at 11:59 pm
- Written/Physical Testing: Monday, April 13, starting at 3 pm
- Peer/Command Interviews: Thursday, April 23, starting at 2:30 pm
- Police Commission Interviews: Thursday, May 7, starting at 5:45 pm
Note: The selection process may also include medical, drug, and psychological exams, as well as a background investigation. The agency reserves the right to utilize some or all of these processes.
HOW TO APPLY
If you are interested in a career with the Cottage Grove Police Department, please apply online and include a letter of interest and resume.
QUESTIONS?
Contact: Inga Cushman, Asst. Administrator/Human Resource Manager
- Phone: (608) 839-4704
- Address: Cottage Grove Village Hall, 221 E. Cottage Grove Rd., Cottage Grove, WI 53527
RESOURCES