Becoming a police constable with the Niagara Regional Police Service is a series of steps.  First, reviewing our Web site provides you with information on our organization, the duties of being a police officer, and the functions of various units.  This should give you a good indication of whether its the career for you, and whether you have the qualities to be a good officer.  As we discussed in the Elements of Being an Officer Web page, the following competencies have been identified as essential requirements of all candidates for a successful career in law enforcement:

• self-control
• analytical thinking
• communication skills (written, verbal, listening)
• self-confidence
• flexibility in dealing with diversity
• relationship building
• physical skills and abilities
• achievement orientation

Each stage of the Selection Process endeavors to assess the candidates skills and abilities in these areas, as well as other desirable qualities.

PREPARING FOR THE SELECTION PROCESS

The selection process consists of several phases, which are outlined on our Selection Process Web page.  For many of these phases, the only way to prepare is to be aware of what is involved, and to provide complete and accurate information.  For example, as outlined on our Visual Standards Web page, there are requirements involving the eyesight of a candidate.  If a person doesn't meet these standards, then they will not proceed through additional phases of the selection process.

However, this doesn't mean you are unable to prepare for possible employment with the Service.  Physical fitness and good medical health is required.  To be prepared for physical fitness requirements, you should consult with a medical physician and create an exercise plan that involves running, strength training, cardiovascular, and other exercises that will aid you in being ready for possible employment with the Service.

APPLYING FOR A POSITION

The first phase consists of applying.  You can either apply online or download and complete our application package.  Additional information on applying can be found on our Required Information Web page.  When applying, you will need to provide:

1. Submission of current, valid Ontario Association of Chief's of Police (OACP) testing certificate as obtained through Applicant Testing Services.  An appointment for obtaining the certificate may be made by contacting Applicant Testing Services at 1-800-429-7728, or you may access their web site at www.applicanttesting.com and register for testing online.
2. A valid CPR and First Aid certificate Level C
3. A current resume

Once this information is received, the applicants files and/or online application will be screened.  If the applicant has applied online, he or she may be contacted and the above information will be requested.  Successful applicants will then be contacted and asked to attend a Local Focused Interview, at which time an applicant who has applied online will be asked to sign his or her application form and waiver.

INTERVIEWS

The Local Focused Interview is conducted by a panel consisting of two (2) Service members.  The interview questions and scoring are based on predetermined competencies or qualities essential to the Police Constable position.  An additional interview called an Essential Competency Interview (Behavioural Interview Based) may later be conducted, which is also conducted by a panel of two (2) Service members.

TESTING

Psychological Testing is required for candidates who have been successful in the interview phase of the Selection Process.  Psychological testing consists of MMP1 and a clinical interview with a psychologist.  If the candidate is currently working for another police service, his or her results from other services may be considered.  The shelf-life of a MMP1-2 test is one year, regardless of where it is administered, and the candidate must wait one year before being retested if unsuccessful.

BACKGROUND TESTS

The Niagara Regional Police Service will conduct a background investigation of candidates, and check the references provided by the candidate.  During the investigation, documents that have been submitted and information provided in previous phases will be verified. Previous employers and personal references are contacted during this phase to assess your suitability as a prospective police constable.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

It is important for candidates to be in good health, as a comprehensive medical examination is performed by a physician appointed by the Niagara Regional Police Service.  Those successfully completing this final phase will be offered employment with the Service. 

CONDITIONS OF APPOINTMENT

1. Agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the Niagara Regional Police Service and of the Police Services Act of Ontario and it's Regulations
2. You must successfully complete the Recruit Level Training program at the Ontario Police College and the Niagara Regional Police recruit training courses, as required.
3. You must serve a probationary period of twelve (12) months

THE TRAINING

Upon completion of the academic programs, the Recruit receives field instruction and training under the direct supervision of an assigned coach officer.   Under the coach officer's guidance, the Recruit will progress gradually from the role of the observer to participant and will be given more independence and responsibility.  Recruits are then assessed and if found to be competent, will move to patrol alone.  Prior to completion of the twelve (12) months Probation period, assessment is continual and all aspects of service and training are scrutinized.