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Qualifications:
KDPS’ hiring process includes an application, a written test, a physical agility test, a background investigation and several interviews throughout the process.
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 (May 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, but are not limited to, a Spanish language bonus, veteran on-the-job training education benefits, a defined benefit pension plan 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 regard to the current wage scale. This lateral transfer would significantly increase starting wages for eligible new hires.
Advancement Opportunities:
There are multiple career advancement opportunities for Public Safety Officers to include the positions of: Detective, Canine Handler, Community Policing Officer, Narcotics Investigator, Crime Lab Technician, SWAT, Bomb Squad, Honor Guard, and Command Officer.