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Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does the hiring process take to complete?
The average time to process a candidate is 2 to 3 months.

Do I have to complete an application before I can attend the initial testing?
Yes. We require all interested applicants to complete a City of Scottsdale application. Applications must be received by the Human Resources department prior to the test date. If you meet the minimum qualifications, you will be given an invitation to attend the next available test.

Is the written and physical agility test on the same day?
Yes. The physical agility test is taken first, followed by the written. Applicants are told immediately if they are successful in proceeding to the next stage of the testing process.

What are the fitness requirements?
For more information, click here.

What does the written test consist of?
For more information, click here.

Do you accept applications from people living out-of-state? If so, do I have to travel to Scottsdale to take the test?
Yes. We encourage interested applicants from out-of-state to apply. You will be required to come to Scottsdale to participate in the testing process. This will be at the applicants own expense.

How many trips to Scottsdale will I have to make to complete the hiring process?
We try our best to work with out-of-state applicants to minimize the number of visits. Please plan on a minimum of two visits to complete the testing and background process.

Do you hire certified out-of-state officers?
Yes. We encourage out-of-state officers to apply. We offer 1% over the base salary, to a maximum of 10% for each year of consecutive service.

If I get hired and have out-of-state certification, do I have to attend your academy?
Applicants are evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine suitability of the waiver process. This decision is made prior to a job offer. For more information, click here.

How many officers are you looking to hire?
We will continue to hire on an on-going basis in our search to find the most qualified applicants.

Do I get paid while I am in the academy?
Yes. Police Recruits are hired two weeks before the academy and participate in a pre-academy orientation process.

How long is the academy?
We currently utilize three different academies with a Monday – Friday schedule. Academies range from 18 – 20 weeks in length.

What is your policy on tattoos?
Employees will not exhibit tattoos that are obscene, sexual, racial, or religiously discriminatory. Excessive visible tattoos are prohibited. Excessive is defined as covering 1/3 of an exposed body part or visible above the collarbone and visible with an open collar shirt. Command staff personnel retain final discretion when determining the appropriateness of exposed tattoos.

When do I become a Police Officer?
The Police Officer Trainee position is a paid entry level position while attending an 18-20 week Police Academy and thirteen weeks of Field Training. Upon satisfactory completion of the academy, the trainee is promoted to Police Officer. Trainees serve an 18 month probationary period from the date of hire.

The City of Scottsdale is an Equal Opportunity Employer


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New Document Downloads:

Decide Your Ride - DUI Enforcement
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2006 Annual Report
Report on Police Department Activities in 2006
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Strategic Plan Fiscal Year 2007/08 - 2011/12
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