To select the most qualified candidates, the selection process for civilian positions is comprehensive and takes approximately 3 to 5 weeks to complete.

• Applications
  Must be completed and submitted by the posted deadline (if listed in the job announcement). All applications must be submitted online. Omissions or deficiencies that can be corrected before the testing or interview phase will not result in automatic disqualification.

• Written/Computer Examination
  Conducted and scored using non-discriminatory procedures.

• Oral Interviews
  Offered to those who pass the examination. The Interview Board consists of department members or the Administrative Support Supervisor, all trained in the interview process.

• Background Investigations
  Conducted by trained officers for applicants advancing past the oral interview phase.

• Chief’s Interview
  A one-on-one interview with the Chief of Police for candidates who successfully complete all prior stages.

• Appointment to Probationary Status
  Final appointment is made by the Chief of Police.

• Application
  Must be accurate and complete. Applications must be submitted online by the filing deadline (if one is listed). Applicants certified by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission (MPCTC) may be required to provide their certification card.

  Applicants will receive a written acknowledgment and instructions for the next steps.

• Preliminary Fitness/Physical Agility Test
  The fitness test includes:

  • Sit-ups (1 min): Minimum of 15
  • Push-ups (1 min): Minimum of 10 (no modified push-ups)
  • 1.5 Mile Run: Minimum passing time of 18 minutes
  • 300 Meter Run: Minimum passing time of 80 seconds
  • Climb over a barrier
  • Pull/drag a 150 lb. dummy for 15 feet
  • Traverse up and down two flights of stairs

  These standards are based on Cooper Institute guidelines and will be demonstrated before testing.

• Written Examination
  When administered, the exam uses valid, standardized, and non-discriminatory procedures. A writing sample is included.

• Oral Interview
  Conducted before an interview panel for applicants who pass the written exam. Panel members are trained department personnel.

• Background Investigation
  Required by City ordinance and MPCTC regulations. Conducted by trained sworn officers and may include:

  • Personal references
  • Driving records
  • Local, state, and national criminal background checks (fingerprinting required)
  • Interviews with employers, coworkers, neighbors (past 10 years)
  • Family interviews
  • Verification of "good standing" from current law enforcement employers
  • Credit and financial history
  • Military and court records (as applicable)
  • Drug use compliance with MPCTC standards

 

• Computer Voice Stress Analysis (CVSA)
  Administered and interpreted by licensed professionals at no cost to the applicant.

• Chief’s Interview
  One-on-one interview with the Chief of Police.

Candidates who successfully complete all prior steps may receive a conditional offer of employment, contingent upon completion of the following:

Psychological Evaluation
Conducted by a licensed professional at no cost to the candidate.

• Medical Examination & Physical Agility Assessment
  Includes a comprehensive fitness test, stress test, and drug screening. All are conducted by licensed professionals and are required by the State of Maryland.

If all remaining requirements are successfully met, the City will issue a formal employment offer, including the anticipated start date.

• Appointment to Probationary Status
  Made by the Chief of Police. The probationary period is 24 months.