Kalamazoo:
The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety will open up the application process for the position of “Public Safety Officer” on Wednesday, May 20, 2020. The application process will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2020.
Application: Applications may be submitted online between 05/20/20 and 06/03/20 at the following websites:
1- https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/kalamazoomi
2- www.kalamazoopublicsafety.org
KDPS’ hiring process consists of an application, a written test, a physical agility test, a background investigation and several interviews throughout the process. If these steps are successfully completed, it is anticipated that an offer of employment will be given in January, 2021.
Qualifications: To be considered for employment, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, have a High School Diploma or GED equivalent, possess a valid driver’s license, and be 21 years old at time of appointment (January, 2021). Applicants will also be required to pass a written and physical test and undergo an extensive background investigation. Applicants are not required to be MCOLES (Police) certified to apply. KDPS desires candidates with integrity, a strong work ethic, and a desire to serve our Kalamazoo community.
Benefits: KDPS officers are cross-trained as police officers, firefighters, and medical first responders. They respond to calls for police, fire, and medical emergencies, along with performing other duties, within the City of Kalamazoo. Applicants do not need to have prior police or fire certifications to be considered, as KDPS will sponsor them through the police academy and provide fire training, if needed. A training wage may apply to those who need to attend the Police Academy. Additional benefits include a Spanish language bonus, veteran on-the-job training education benefits and the federal direct student loan forgiveness program.
Additionally, KDPS offers lateral transfers for current police officers (MCOLES certified/certifiable). Police officers currently employed full-time and in good standing with another police agency have the opportunity to laterally transfer up to three (3) years of police experience in regards to the current wage scale. This lateral transfer would significantly increase starting wages for eligible new hires.
Advancement Opportunities: There are multiple advancement/additional opportunities for Public Safety Officers to include the position of: Detective, Canine Handler, Community Policing Officer, Narcotics Investigator, Crime Lab Technician, SWAT Team, Bomb Squad, Honor Guard, and Command Officer.
Information about KDPS is available at www.kalamazoopublicsafety.org and questions can be submitted through the “Contact” link at the top of the Home Page.
By authority of: Executive Lieutenant Danielle Guilds
Date: April 28, 2020
Address: 150 E. Crosstown Pkwy., Suite A, Kalamazoo, MI 49001
Media Contact: Jeff VanderWiere, Assistant Chief, (269) 337-8270
