Recruit Selection Process

Initial Application

Recruit Intake Examination

Applicants meeting the minimum qualifications (See Qualifications) will be invited to write the Ethos Police Test, which assesses practical skill sets that police officers use on a regular basis while performing their duties. The exam is divided into four modules and is three hours in length. A score of 60% is required to pass. The four modules assess the following areas:

Memory and observation skills
Reading comprehension and critical thinking skills
Summarizing skills
Writing and editing skills

Police Officers Physical Abilities Test (POPAT)

Applicants who successfully pass the recruit intake examination will be tested on physical fitness utilizing the Police Officers Physical Abilities Test (POPAT). The POPAT is a job-related physical abilities test designed to simulate a critical incident where a police officer chases, controls and apprehends a suspect. It measures physical fitness (including strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance), and motor fitness (including power, agility and speed). The POPAT must be completed in 4 minutes and 15 seconds; however, due to the competitive process, a passing time may or may not be sufficient to continue in the selection process.

Employment Application Package

Applicants who successfully complete the initial screening, intake exam and POPAT stages of our process will be asked to complete and submit a long form Employment Application Package, including Integrity and Lifestyle Questionnaire. Following review of this package by the Recruiting Section, some applicants will be shortlisted for panel interview.

Panel Interview

Two or more members of our Department will conduct an in-depth interview of short-listed applicants. The interview panel will be comprised of police officers of various ranks and experience. The interview will be approximately two hours in length.

Standardized Tests

Short-listed applicants will write a test designed to assess psychological suitability for policing. A follow-up clinical interview by a psychologist may also be required.

Polygraph Examination

Short-listed applicants will be interviewed by a qualified examiner with the aid of a polygraph instrument to determine suitability for employment. The interview will be a continuation of the Integrity and Lifestyle Questionnaire, and will test truthfulness about personal history, qualifications and integrity.

Background Investigation

An experienced investigator will conduct an extensive background investigation of short-listed applicants to determine employment suitability. It may include interviews of present and past employers, friends, relatives, landlords and neighbours, and will check qualifications, references, resume and interview information.

Occupational Health and Fitness Assessment

Short-listed applicants will be subjected to an extensive medical examination by an occupational health company designated by Port Moody Police Department. A comprehensive fitness assessment may also be conducted.

Chief Constable’s Interview

Short-listed applicants will be interviewed by the Chief Constable or another member of Management.

Appointment

Successful applicant(s) on the short list will be notified and become eligible for appointment, subject to security clearance. Successful applicants will undergo intensive training at the Police Academy at the Justice Institute of British Columbia. See Police Academy Training.