Sworn Officer - The Hiring Process

Initial Application

The initial application is an online application form that introduces you to us and informs us of your interest in our department. You need to fill it out in detail by following the given instructions. The application receives no point score, but the information is used to assist in the comprehensive personal background investigation, which is a pass/fail step in the hiring process.

Click here for a full job description and to apply online.

Physical Ability Test

The PHYSICAL FITNESS TEST consists of three (5) basic fitness assessments. Each test has been scientifically validated. The tests will be given in the following sequence, with a rest period between each test.

1. ONE (1) MINUTE SIT UP TEST: This is a measure of the muscular endurance of the abdominal muscles. It is an important area for performing police tasks that may involve the use of force and is an important area for maintaining good posture and minimizing lower back problems. The score is in the number of bent leg sit-ups performed in one (1) minute.

2. ONE (1) MINUTE PUSH-UP TEST: This is a measure of the fitness (strength and endurance) level of the muscle groups involved in the chest, upper arms and shoulder girdle. It is an important area for performing police tasks requiring upper body strength. The score is in the number of push-ups performed in one (1) minute.

3. ONE AND A HALF (1.5) MILE RUN: This is a timed run to measure the heart and vascular system capability to transport oxygen. It is an important area for performing police tasks involving stamina and endurance and to minimize the risk of cardiovascular problems. The score is in minutes and seconds

4. The 300 Meter run: is a timed measure for the strength of the legs

5. SIT AND REACH: This is a test that measures your body's flexibility.

* The actual performance requirement for each test is based upon norms for a national population sample.
* The applicant must pass every test during a single session.
* The required performance to pass each test is based upon sex and age (decade). While the absolute performance is different in each category, the relative level of effort is identical for each age and sex group. All recruits are being required to meet the same percentile rank in terms of their respective age/sex group. The performance requirement is that level of physical performance that approximate the 30th percentile for each age and sex group.

 Written Examination

A written examination is administered to all applicants. The examination is about two (2) hours in length and requires no previous experience in law enforcement. The purpose of the test is to measure the cognitive skills critical to successful learning and performing the police officer job. The scores of the applicants passing the written examination will a minimum score of 70% will advance to the background portion of the process. Calculators or dictionaries will not be allowed. All telecommunications devices and watch alarms must be turned off.

 Background Investigation

Upon passing both the physical ability test and written test, candidates will be given a Personal History packet to complete. The personal history background form is a comprehensive document. This document asks detailed and in-depth questions in order to better evaluate your suitability for employment. It needs to be filled out in detail, following the instructions. The Police Department will conduct a thorough background investigation. All information will be confirmed.

Omissions or falsifications are grounds for rejection. Completed Personal History statements will be turned in to the Clovis Police Department’s Training and Recruiting Division.

Candidates need to make the necessary arrangements to have the following certified documents available for submittal with their completed Personal History Packet: 

·         Birth Certificate

·         Naturalization papers (if applicable)

·         High School, G.E.D. Certificate or College transcripts

·         DD214

Notarized copies are acceptable replacements for the above requested certified documents.

Oral Board Interview

An Oral Board may interview candidates for the position of Police Officer.

Polygraph

Each candidate will be required to submit to a polygraph examination.

Interview with the Chief of Police

The Chief of Police or his designee will interview candidates for the position of Police Officer.

Medical and Psychological Examination

A conditional offer of employment may be offered depending on the results of a thorough medical examination provided by the City of Clovis. This examination will include testing for drug dependency or illegal drug use. Candidates will be given a vision examination, at no cost to the applicant. This examination is to ensure all applicants meet the vision requirements. Each candidate must also pass an evaluation by a licensed Psychologist.

Police Officer Training

Immediately after being hired, the recruit will enter a 6-8 week pre-FTO training course. The training hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is some nighttime training and the classroom hours may vary. The training is mentally and physically demanding. Classroom training includes such areas as, criminal justice, criminal investigation, basic law, police procedures, and traffic control. Recruits are also trained in proficiency areas of firearms and physical training. 

After successful completion of this portion of the training the Recruit officer will advance to the Field Training Program (FTO). Within the first year of service the recruit will attend the NMLEA academy for 22 weeks of further training for NM certification as a Police Officer. Successful completion of the Academy requires passing a state certification exam. (Officers with a certification may be eligible for a reduced FTO program). After one (1) year service (certified) or 18 months (non-certified) the police officer completes probationary service and becomes a full-fledged Police Officer.

Certification By Waiver

Candidates holding a current Peace Officer certification may be eligible for an abbreviated version of the Police Academy. Certified Police Officer applicants must submit a copy of their training records with their Personal History Packet. The length of the academy training will be determined after review of the training records. All recruits, whether certified or not, must successfully complete both academic and physical training requirements to graduate. All academy graduates whether previously certified or not, must participate in the Field Training Officers program.

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