KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) will open the hiring process for the position of “Public Safety Officer” this week.
The hiring process will open on Wednesday, May 20, and remain available until Wednesday, June 3.
Applications must be submitted online during that time period, and can be done so at the following links:
According to the department, the hiring process will consist 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.
Applicants will also have to meet the following factors to be considered for employment:
-
Be a U.S. citizen
-
Have a High School Diploma or GED equivalent
-
Possess a valid driver’s license
-
Be at least 21 years old at time of employment (January 2021)
KDPS adds that 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. Additionally, the department says it is seeking candidates with integrity, a strong work ethic, and a desire to serve the Kalamazoo community.
Since KDPS officers respond to calls for police, fire, and medical emergencies, along with performing other duties, they are cross-trained as officers, firefighters, and medical first responders.
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.
Lateral transfers are also available for current police officers. Those that are currently employed full-time and are in good standing with another police agency will have the opportunity to transfer up to three years of prior experience on the wage scale, meaning a higher starting wage for those who qualify.
Furthermore, Public Safety Officers can advance to the following positions: Detective, Canine Handler, Community Policing Officer, Narcotics Investigator, Crime Lab Technician, SWAT Team, Bomb Squad, Honor Guard, and Command Officer.
Additional information can be found online at https://kalamazoopublicsafety.org/. Questions can be submitted by clicking the “Contact” link at the top of the Home Page.
