Police Intern

The City of Durango is a purpose-driven organization with over 400 full-time and 300 part-time and seasonal employees across 15 departments. Our team delivers high-quality services in public safety, utilities, parks, recreation, and more to enhance community life. Through the Trail to Excellence (T2E), every employee contributes to measurable goals and continuous improvement, aligning with our mission and vision of an authentic, diverse, engaged, and environmentally responsible community.

About the role

This semester-long, paid internship with the Durango Police Department offers hands-on experience in law enforcement, complementing your academic studies and potentially earning course credit. As a non-sworn intern, you’ll build a professional network and explore career options in government service or law enforcement while engaging with the local community.

Responsibilities

• Shadow various departments, including Records, Detective Bureau, Court Liaison, Emergency Communication Center, Police Operations, and Police Administration.
• Participate in sit-alongs, ride-alongs, and tours of law enforcement facilities.
• Assist with projects such as gathering survey data, data entry, research for classwork, case follow-up, community outreach reporting, and social media development.
• Complete assignments and maintain a journal of activities for evaluation.
• Conduct a research project at the conclusion of the internship.
• Receive training in department records, computer systems, public records law, and privacy/confidentiality concerns.
• Learn about the court/judicial process, investigative procedures, and operational protocols.

Benefits

• Gain insight into daily law enforcement operations.
• Enhance your resume and explore career options.
• Build a professional network in your field of interest.
• Apply academic knowledge in a real-world setting.
• Engage with and contribute to the local community.
• Develop research and technical writing skills.

Requirements

• Eighteen years of age or older.
• U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident.
• Currently enrolled in a college or university in good standing.
• Able to work 8–15 hours per week.
• Covered by sufficient health insurance.
• Able to pass a background investigation with no felony convictions or disqualifying criminal histories.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and able to complete projects under minimal supervision.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, research methods, and technical writing.

Schedule

Internships run for one semester (fall or spring) and require a minimum of 8 hours and up to 15 hours of work per week.

City of Durango's Indigenous Land Acknowledgement