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The Calgary Police Service (CPS)

Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) is among the largest and most respected municipal police services in the country and one of the most progressive law enforcement agencies in North America.

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Community Policing

The Calgary Police Service, in concert with other agencies and the citizens of Calgary, is instrumental in preserving the quality of life in our community by maintaining Calgary as a secure place in which to live. In so doing, we are dedicated philosophically and operationally to the concept of community-based policing.

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Chief Rick Hanson

The mission of the Calgary Police Service is: "to maximize public safety in Calgary, with vigilance, courage and pride".

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Learn More - The CPS

The CPS is made up of more than 1,900 police officers and almost 700 civilian employees.
The CPS prides itself on service delivery, training and development and most importantly its people. In partnership with other agencies and the citizens of Calgary, the CPS strives to preserve the quality of life in the community by ensuring that Calgary remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.

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Make a difference

Our Tradition, Your Future
When you join the Calgary Police Service, you become a key player in an organization where innovation and progress are tradition and opportunities are unlimited. Novel ideas, new technology and fresh approaches are embraced in the enterprising history of the Service.

The HAWC1 helicopter, Canada's first dedicated municipal police helicopter is an excellent example. Wanting quicker response times to urgent incidents, Calgary became the first police service in Canada to have an "eye in the sky" when HAWC1 took flight July 16, 1995. This helicopter, equipped with ever-improving technology, can respond to most crime scenes within city limits in 90 seconds.

Many of the new ideas undertaken by the Calgary Police Service start at the grass roots of the organization and take off from there. The tradition of innovation goes back decades and touches many areas of policing.

For instance, in 1971 the Calgary Police Service wanted more evidence to conclusively link a murder suspect to a victim's body. Knowing the murder victim had been bitten, members of the Service asked the suspect if he would volunteer dental mold of his bite pattern. The suspect agreed. It was accepted in court that each person has a distinct bite pattern and the Calgary Police Service earned the first "bite" conviction in North America. Also in 1971, officers with the CPS took part in the first course ever held in Canada on drug control.

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Make a difference

Our Tradition, Your Future
Recognizing the importance computers would play in policing, the Calgary Police Service became the first police agency in the country to automate finger print storage. This leading edge technology, called the Automated Finger Print Identification System (AFIS) was launched in June 1986 and saw Calgary become the hub for a network of finger print terminals across Western Canada.

Jump ahead to October 10, 1995, the Calgary Police Service became the first major Canadian city with a female chief when Christine Silverberg moved into the top position.

Offering a multitude of opportunities to officers, some of the specialized units within the Service have also earned recognition for their innovative work.

In 1997, the Cultural Resources Unit became the first police unit in the province to win the Alberta Human Rights Award for "Having made outstanding contributions to the understanding and acceptance of human rights in Alberta."

This was also the year Calgary played host to the World Police and Fire Games and 8,700 athletes came from more than 45 countries.

Launching an e-learning system to help Service members manage and continue their learning throughout their careers also puts the Calgary Police Service at the forefront of innovation. The system will link to educational institutions offering related post-secondary courses, and other content will continually be created and added, ensuring members have the learning opportunities they choose, when they want them.

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Make a difference

Our Tradition, Your Future
These are only a few examples of fresh approaches to policing and the opportunities available with the Calgary Police Service. You have the opportunity to be a part of this innovative tradition, earn over $54,000 per year to start and climb to more than $83,000 after five years of service.

As one of Canada's largest policing services, there are opportunities for promotion, personal growth and specialization. Choosing a stable and rewarding career is in your hands. Excitement is guaranteed.

If there is one certainty in the years ahead, it is that the Calgary Police Service will explore all boundaries for better policing, with ideas from people like you, and continue its tradition as an innovative employer.

Check us out to see how our tradition can be your future.

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Community Policing

Community Policing is, quite simply, police officers and Calgarians working together, in partnership, to prevent crime, and finding long-lasting solutions to the problems that threaten safety and order.

Community policing emphasizes;

What is the Key to Community Policing? Consulting with our communities; we work with Calgarians in many ways, and in many places, to learn:

Our primary focus is on crime prevention, crime detection and apprehension, and traffic safety. Our most effective tools are:

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Our Guiding Principles

Calgary Police Service Information

It's your time to make a difference

Become a key player

in an organization where innovation and progress are tradition, and opportunities are unlimited.
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Competitive salaries

Competitive salaries: $54,021 to $84,392 in the first five years.
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Paid training

In-service training courses and continuous career-long learning.
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Over 100 specialty areas

The Calgary Police Service is committed to continuous coaching and mentoring.
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The CPS is Hiring

The Calgary Police Service is hiring.
Become a key player in an organization where innovation and progress are tradition, and opportunities are unlimited.

Located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) is among the largest and most respected municipal police services in the country and one of the most progressive law enforcement agencies in North America. The CPS is made up of more than 1,800 police officers and more than 900 civilian employees. The CPS prides itself on service delivery, training and development and most importantly its people. In partnership with other agencies and the citizens of Calgary, the CPS strives to preserve the quality of life in the community by ensuring that Calgary remains a safe place to live, work, and visit.

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Living in Calgary

With a population of more than one million people, the City of Calgary is a dynamic place to live. The young city has a strong economy and is located within an hour of the majestic Rocky Mountains. Calgary offers endless opportunities to enjoy leisure, sporting, and cultural events. For more information about life in Calgary, please visit the City of Calgary's website www.calgary.ca or go to the Calgary Economic Development site www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.

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Why the CPS?

We can offer you:

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What Applicants Need to Join the CPS

Character
Minimum Requirements
Anyone who has been in Canada for less than three years please contact the Recruiting Unit before submitting an application
Preferred Attributes
Medical Standards

For more information relating to the Medical Standards for Police Recruits or a specific Medical Condition, please contact the Recruiting Unit and ask to speak with the Occupational Health & Safety Nurse. Self Assess -
Medical Requirements for Candidates

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Salary and Benefits

We offer you:
We offer you:
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Training and Career Development

Recruit Training

Probationary constables entering training will be paid at the 5th Class Constable rate, beginning on the first day of classes. Classroom training is located in the Calgary Police Service Chief Crowfoot Learning Centre and lasts for 20 weeks.

Training Topics:

There is a great deal of information and many skills to learn in a relatively short time. Academic standards are high and considerable home-study should be anticipated.

Recruit training is physically demanding and will challenge fitness levels. It's imperative that applicants can meet the standards.

Field Training
Upon graduating from classroom training, all new officers will work with a Police Training Officer for three months. During that time, the experienced officer constantly evaluates the probationary constable's performance. Newly hired officers are placed on a period of probation for eighteen months beginning the day they started recruit training.

In-Service Training and Career Development
The Calgary Police Service offers its members ongoing training in a wide range of disciplines related to policing. Members can expect to be offered in-service training related to their needs and career goals.

The Calgary Police Service is committed to continuous coaching and mentoring. The Career Development Section provides members with educational support, insight, knowledge and guidance giving them the tools to develop themselves and their careers.

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Training and Career Development

Career Development Support

The Employee Learning and Development Unit (ELDU) provides services to all employees of the Calgary Police Service.

Training Topics:
Promotion

The promotional process allows members of CPS to choose their career path. Members seeking advancement can opt to compete for promotion to either the rank of Sergeant (supervisor) or Detective (investigator).

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CPS International Peace Operations Program (IPOP)

For almost 20 years, Canada has been deploying police officers to international peace missions around the world.

Canadians assist in rebuilding and strengthening police services in countries that have experienced conflict or upheaval. By building the capacity of foreign police to maintain law and order, Canadian police, in cooperation with international partners, help create a safer and more stable environment.

Serving on a mission can be the experience of a lifetime for police officers. It is an exciting opportunity to work abroad in support of peace and security and make a tangible difference for people who live in poverty and chaos. It can also be a time of great personal and professional growth.

The Calgary Police Service currently has four members deployed overseas as part of the International Peace Operations Program (IPOP). All four members are very excited about the challenges they face on these missions and the difference they are able to make in the lives of others - foreign police officers in particular. They are also looking forward to returning to Canada to share their learnings with others in the Service.

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Civilian Opportunities

You may already know that the Calgary Police Service is one of the largest policing organizations in Canada. You may not be aware, however, that about one quarter of our current personnel hold civilian positions. There are a wide variety of civilian employment opportunities in the Service, including positions like:

All Calgary Police Service civilian positions are advertised on the City of Calgary website. Go to www.calgary.ca, navigate through "Career Opportunities", then "Job Opportunities". Follow the instructions to apply for jobs. Calgary Police Service positions are labeled "PS" under Department. You are encouraged to attach a resume and cover letter (as one document) in a single Microsoft Word, PDF or plain text format.

If you have any questions, or would like further information, please feel free to contact the Human Resources Business Advisory Section at 403-428-8480. Tell us where you heard about us, so we can provide you with the best service possible.

Thanks for considering the Calgary Police Service in your employment search!

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How to Apply

The Calgary Police Service is always accepting applications for police officer positions, whether to keep up with the demands of attrition or population growth.

We are always looking for qualified individuals to join our team... and in exchange, we offer you an exciting and rewarding career, where you really can make a difference.

Minimum Requirements

Anyone who has been in Canada for less than three years please contact the Recruiting Unit before submitting an application

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Are you ready to join?

Before deciding to pursue a policing career you must make yourself aware of the roles and responsibilities of a police officer. You must also make yourself aware of the personal qualities, attributes and strengths necessary to adequately perform the job. Look within yourself and determine whether you measure favourably against the standards.

This questionnaire is provided for you to undertake your own assessment of your suitability for a career in policing. You know your strengths, skills and abilities better than anyone else.

Answer yes or no to each statement.

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Are you ready to join?

How do I start the application process?
The first stage of the application process is to submit a completed application package for review. If this initial review is successful, you will be contacted to continue in the process. It is highly recommended that you attend an information session to learn more about the Calgary Police Service, careers in policing, and the expectations of our selection process, prior to applying.

Where can I get an application?
Application packages are available on this website, at the recruiting office, or at any Calgary Police Service District Office.

Where do I submit my completed application?
Completed applications can be mailed (or delivered in person) to:
Calgary Police Service
Recruiting Unit
Mail code 814
5111 47 Street NE
Calgary, AB T3J 3R2
Please note that incomplete applications can not be processed and will be returned to you.

I don't live in Calgary, is there a different application process for out of town applicants?
Out of town applicants are required to come to Calgary. Once your application is received, a Recruiting Officer will contact you to make arrangements for you to come to Calgary at a mutually convenient time. You are responsible for all costs associated with your travel to and from Calgary. In most cases, applicants need to be in Calgary for approximately 7-10 days.

Can I write the tests prior to submitting my application?
No, you must submit your application form for review before you are allowed to write the Alberta Communication Test & Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test.

How can I prepare for the written testing?
You may wish to consult an external study guide, web resources or a tutor. You also may want to attend an English as a Second Language course before registering for testing, if you are concerned about your level of proficiency in spoken and written English. The Calgary Police service offers a vocabulary-based ESL (English as a second language) program for competitive applicants who are struggling with the ACT.

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Are you ready to join?

Do I need to do the A-PREP before I submit my application?
No, however, if you have already completed the A-PREP for another Alberta Police Agency application it is in your best interest to submit a copy of your valid certificate. A-PREP results remain valid for six months from the date of testing.

How can I prepare for the A-PREP?
A-PREP Orientation sessions will be offered to applicants upon successful completion of the written exams. Applicants should also review the Fit to Serve.

How long does the Application Process take?
The time required to complete all stages of the selection process varies. It is also affected by your availability to attend scheduled appointments. You must be successful at each stage of the process in order to proceed to the next stage. On average, an application file with no identified issues of concern will be completed within six months.

Is there a cut-off date to apply? When does the next Recruit Class start?
The Calgary Police Service is always hiring.

Successful applicants are considered for placement in future recruit classes and will be advised when their recruit class begins when they receive their conditional offer of employment. We are currently accepting applications.

Does the Calgary Police Service accept International Applications?
No, all applicants must have Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status and a valid Canadian Social Insurance Number. Applicants who have immigrated to Canada and have no prior policing experience must live in Canada for a minimum of 3 years in order to have a successful Security Clearance. Please Contact the Recruiting Unit for more information.

Is the application process the same if I am currently a serving member from another Police Service or the Military Police?
The Calgary Police Service will review a serving Experienced Officer's qualifications and employment history on a case-by-case basis. Serving officers may be eligible for an elevated starting salary and a reduced training period. This elevation is for pay purposes only and not an increase in rank, seniority or benefits.

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Are you ready to join?

What education do I need to have?
Currently the Calgary Police Service requires at least a Grade 12 Diploma or equivalent. However; the selection process is extremely competitive. Historically, the most competitive applicants possessed some form of post secondary education. This may include a certificate, diploma, degree or technical / trade related education. A competitive applicant will display a strong balance between education, life experience, work experience and a demonstrated commitment towards community involvement.

Do I need to submit my official transcripts?
Proof of completion of Grade 12 or equivalent is required with your application package (transcript must state graduation or provide a copy of the diploma). Official Transcripts may be requested during the selection process. You may submit official or unofficial copies of their transcripts with your application package.

What if my education is from another country?
All applicants are required to provide proof of education, and, if necessary, in the form or a translated document.

Applicants should be prepared to provide their International Qualifications Assessment Standards (IQAS) certificate.

Is there an age or height/size restriction?
The minimum age to apply for the position of Police Constable in the Province of Alberta is 18. There are no height/size restrictions. All hiring decisions are based on selecting the most competitive applicants. You should review the physical fitness requirements of both the A-PREP and those of the rigorous recruit training and the Medical Standards for all police recruits prior to applying.

Are the Standards different for visible minorities or female applicants?
No, the Calgary Police Service is an equal opportunity employer. Hiring decisions are based on selecting the most competitive applicants. Applicants from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

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Are you ready to join?

What if I do not meet the Visual Acuity Standards on the Application?
If any portion of the vision standard is not met, you must attach a letter from an eye professional stating your candidacy for one of the allowable corrective procedures listed on the form and the likelihood you will meet the standard following corrective surgery.

How do I ensure I am a competitive applicant?
A competitive applicant will display a strong balance between education, life experience, work experience and a demonstrated commitment towards community involvement.

Can the Recruiting Unit arrange a ride-along with a police officer for me?
Applicants currently in the process can discuss this opportunity with their Recruiting Officer.

What if I have used drugs in the past, can I still apply?
All applicants must be a minimum of three years clear of any detected or undetected criminal activity. This includes past drug use. Our selection process is very thorough and includes several in-depth interviews, a polygraph examination and a background security investigation.

However, one of the criteria we evaluate candidates on is life experience. If you disclose any illegal activity, we will discuss it with you and determine whether it will preclude you from becoming a police officer with the Calgary Police Service. Complete disclosure throughout the recruiting process is crucial to a successful application.

Can I apply to the Calgary Police Service if I have been deferred from another police agencies application process?
Yes, the Calgary Police Service makes all hiring decision based on our own selection process.

If I have been charged and convicted of a criminal code offence, can I still apply?
Yes, as long as a pardon for the offence has been granted. It can take up to two years to receive a pardon. A copy of the pardon must be included when you submit your application package.

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Are you ready to join?

Can I apply to work for a specialty unit with the Calgary Police Service?
The Calgary Police Service has over 100 specialty units exclusive to experienced sworn police officers. Applicants are not hired directly into specialty units. In order to be eligible to apply for these positions, you typically need three to five years of operational experience with the Calgary Police Service.

If I am hired by the Calgary Police Service, what will recruit training involve? Are recruits paid during training?
The classroom portion of recruit training is between five and six months in duration. Once you successfully complete this portion of the training, you will be partnered with a Police Training Officer for 8 - 15 weeks. All training is paid.

If I don't want to be a police officer, what other employment opportunities are available with the Calgary Police Service?
All available civilian positions within the Calgary Police Service are listed on the City of Calgary Website at www.calgary.ca

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How to Apply

The Calgary Police Service is always accepting applications for police officer positions, whether to keep up with the demands of attrition or population growth.

We are always looking for qualified individuals to join our team... and in exchange, we offer you an exciting and rewarding career, where you really can make a difference.

Minimum Requirements

Anyone who has been in Canada for less than three years please contact the Recruiting Unit before submitting an application

Next Page | How to Apply

Physical Requirements

What is A-PREP?
A-PREP (Alberta Physical Readiness Evaluation for Police) is the police recruit selection physical abilities test used by all municipal police agencies in Alberta.

What does A-PREP consist of?
A-PREP has three separate components: 1) a screening component to ensure the applicant is medically suitable to undergo the test; 2) a series of job simulation tasks arranged in a Pursuit/Restraint Circuit; and 3) an assessment of aerobic fitness (the Aerobic Shuttle Run). For a detailed description of the A-PREP test please see Fit to Serve: Preparing for the A-PREP

Will applicants be able to practice the A-PREP before attempting the test?

Orientations are available for applicants to practice the A-Prep prior to attempting the test. All applicants are strongly encouraged to attend an A-PREP orientation session prior to attempting the A-PREP. For more information or to book an orientation contact the Recruiting Unit at cpsrecruiting@calgarypolice.ca or 403-428-8483 or toll free at 1-866-CPS-HIRE (277-4473).
Fit to Serve: Preparing for the A-PREP

A-PREP Information
Prior to attending the A-PREP all applicants must read the PAR-Q. This will help applicants determine if they are required to have doctor's consent to participate in the A-PREP.
Applicants who answer yes to any of the following questions require the PARmed-X and Medical Clearance Form to be completed by a physician before they can run the A-PREP.
- You answer "Yes" to any of the PAR-Q questions.

- You are over 40 years of age AND not accustomed to regular strenuous (vigorous) exercise.
- You possess two or more of the following major coronary risk factors:

PAR-Q | PARmed-X/Medical Clearance Forms.

All applicants will have their blood pressure taken on site, on the day of their A-PREP test. Their blood pressure must be below 145/95 mmHg.

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Physical Requirements A-PREP Video

Preparing for A-PREP

Applicants are encouraged to read the following guide: "Fit to Serve", available below. It will answer many of the questions about A-PREP as well as give valuable information on how to prepare for the A-PREP test.
Fit to Serve: Preparing for the A-PREP

Where can I do the A-PREP?

The A-PREP test can only be administered by or on behalf of one of the four agencies licensed to conduct testing. The four licensed agencies are the:

The Calgary Police Service will accept the results of an A-PREP test conducted by any of the above agencies.

Who will be required to do the A-PREP?
All Calgary Police Service applicants will be required to pass the A-PREP.

The A-PREP is a police recruit selection standard established for the hiring process.

All recruits who are hired after January 1, 2010 must successfully meet the A-PREP standard prior to graduating from recruit training.

How long is my A-PREP score valid for?
A-PREP test results are valid for six (6) months.

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Physical Requirements

If I fail the A-PREP can I re-do the test?
Yes. Applicants can register to re-do the A-PREP test immediately. If an applicant fails on the second test there is a two (2) month waiting period before A-PREP can be attempted again and two (2) month waiting period for each successive fail.

Where can I get more information about A-PREP?
Contact the Calgary Police Service Recruiting Unit at 403-428-8483 or toll free at 1 866 CPS-HIRE (277-4473) or view the Fit to Serve guide.

Why did the Calgary Police Service choose A-PREP?

Applicants to the Calgary Police Service are required to meet standards established by the Solicitor General and Public Security Minister. The police recruit selection standards are regularly reviewed to ensure that they accurately predict an applicant's ability to perform the complex and challenging tasks required of police constables.

Extensive research was conducted by fitness, policing and legal experts to establish an unbiased and valid test of an applicant's physical ability to perform the job of a police constable. The Ontario PREP test was identified and customized to reflect the tasks required of Alberta police officers.

The research included a comprehensive job analysis to identify the physical tasks required of a police constable to ensure personal and public safety; a comparison of the simulation tasks in A-PREP with actual policing tasks; and, the establishment of performance standards.

All of the research concluded that A-PREP is a Bona-fide Occupational Requirement of a police constable.

When did A-PREP replace PARE?
A-PREP became the recruit selection standard on January 1, 2010.

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A-PREP Video

A-PREP Information
Prior to attending the A-PREP test all applicants must read and complete the PAR-Q. This will help applicants determine if they are required to have additional doctors consent to participate in the A-PREP.

If necessary applicants will require the PARmed-X to be completed by a physician. Individuals that are required to have the PARmed-X filled out will also need to have the Medical Clearance Form completed by their physician before they can run the A-PREP.

A-PREP Forms

Preparing for A-PREP
Applicants are encouraged to read the following guide: "Fit to Serve", available below. It will answer many of the questions about A-PREP as well as give valuable information on how to prepare for the A-PREP test.

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Direct Entry Officer Program (DEO)

The Calgary Police Service is actively seeking prospective applicants with previous policing experience. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the Recruiting Unit at 403-428-8483, 1-866-CPS-HIRE or e-mail cpsrecruiting@calgarypolice.ca for more information.

Minimum DEO Applicant Criteria
In addition to the minimum requirements, experienced officer applicants who wish to be considered for engagement as a DEO will be required to meet these additional requirements.

DEO Selection Process
DEO Orientation Program

DEO Remuneration
Officers entering the Calgary Police Service through the DEO program will be compensated in accordance with their experience by receiving the equivalent salary as a CPS officer with similar experience, to a maximum of four years of completed service.

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Written Testing

The Calgary Police Service uses two written tests in the selection process:

1. Alberta Communication Test (ACT)

The ACT is designed to assess the applicant's ability to communicate in written English.
The test consists of 134 multiple-choice questions with the maximum allowable time of one hour and 35 minutes to complete, including instructions and breaks.

The ACT includes sub-tests to measure three different areas:

The cutoff score for the ACT is 73/134
2. Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test (APCAT)

The APCAT is a paper and pencil test used to assess an applicant's cognitive abilities including judgment, observation skills, written communication skills, learning/memory recall and problem analysis. This exam was developed specifically for the position of police officer in Alberta.

Before starting the exam, the applicant is given 30 minutes to review material relevant to the memory recall portion of this test. The applicant then writes the APACT, which is a two hour and 15 minute multiple-choice exam. No pre-study material will be provided.

Here are 10 sample questions that are similar to the questions found on the test. After each question the best response is identified along with a brief explanation.

The cutoff score for the APCAT is 84/120

Applicants must obtain or exceed the cutoff score to move forward to the next stage in the recruitment process.

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2. Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test (APCAT) Continued

Applicants who are unsuccessful on their first attempt in the APCAT or ACT will not be allowed to retake the test until one month has passed from the date of testing. After the second unsuccessful attempt, each test has a specified deferral period. The APCAT can only be written a total of three times. The ACT and APCAT are provincial tests utilized and shared by all Alberta municipal police services. Both tests are valid for five years from the date they were written successfuly.

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Preparing For Your Interview

The Panel Interview is one of the most difficult stages for applicants. Less than 50% of applicants will be successful at their first Panel Interview. The key to success is preparation. It is impossible to succeed on this style of interview if you have not thoroughly prepared. The interview is one hour long and this is your opportunity to sell yourself to other police officers. They need to assess your answers in the interview as well as your suitability to fit within the organization.

The interview is a Behavioral Descriptive Interview (BDI), which will focus on the competencies required for policing. Refer to the competencies and explanations listed on the CPS website. This style of interview assesses your real actions in the past, not hypothetical actions in the future. You need to remember incidents in your life when you demonstrated the required competency. This may be an incident from work, education, volunteering or your personal life. Your examples should be as recent as possible but also your best examples. A good example from five years ago is better than a weak example from 6 months ago.

A total of Five competency based questions will be asked. An interviewer will ask one question per competency. Five of the six competencies are randomly selected from the list. The competencies are:

Adaptability/ Decisiveness
Ability and confidence to vary between being flexible and holding firm on a decision, depending on what the situation requires; showing leadership by adjusting one's approach to the demands of a particular task or by taking and maintaining a position in a self-assured manner. Patrol Constables must be able to change their demeanor and behavior to suit a wide variety of situations. They must be independent, confident and able to make quick, yet sound decisions in order to prevent self-risk and/or injury to others. Clear thinking and the confidence to act upon their decisions is crucial.

Initiative/ Perseverance
Willingness to take action to address needs without being requested to do so; staying on task to completion, particularly in the face of obstacles or other trying circumstances. The Patrol Constable is often the only person on scene who can change the course of events, by deciding on a course of action and committing to it. This may take a considerable amount of time, as results may not be easily or quickly accomplished. The ability to be persistent and "stay the course" cannot be overestimated.

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Preparing For Your 2011 Interview - p2

Interpersonal Skills
Ability to work effectively with different people and teams of people, by putting others at ease, acknowledging diverse opinions, addressing relevant concerns, minimizing conflict, promoting harmony, cooperating with others, and working toward consensual solutions to achieve group objectives. People skills are one of the most important skills for a Patrol Constable. Patrol Constables can be involved in group meetings and face-to-face contact as a leader, negotiator and problem solver. Difficult situations can be de-escalated by a Patrol Constable who is cognizant of others opinions and concerns, who can minimize conflict and promote harmony, while still achieving objectives.

Organization Skills
Ability to identify and set priorities; to plan and effectively allocate resources; to attend to details so that relevant issues are addressed and high quality outcomes result. Planning and organizing, establishing goals for themselves and others, budgeting time and setting priorities are all part of the successful Patrol Constable’s responsibilities. Awareness of the inter-relationship between time, resources and priorities is essential for the Patrol Constable's success.

Stress Management
Ability to work well under pressure; maintaining effectiveness and self-control in the midst of any one or combination of stressors, including emotional strain, ambiguity, risk to self, and fatigue. Patrol Constables are exposed to stressful situations on a daily basis and must have well developed coping skills to maintain their effectiveness on the job; despite fatigue, difficult working conditions (i.e. adverse weather) and potential conflict situations.

Valuing Service and Diversity
Sensitivity to client and community needs and perceptions by providing prompt, efficient and equitable service; involving clients and communities in the resolution of problems that affect them. Exposure to all of Canada’s social diversity; (i.e. different ethnic, social and religious groups) calls for an understanding of the Human Rights of all individuals. Patrol Constables are expected to provide efficient and effective service to all citizens, regardless of their background, religion or ethnicity.

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Preparing For Your 2011 Interview - p3

You will also be assessed on overall impact and your communication skills. You will have an opportunity to present your answer. You will be expected to respond in the STAR format. STAR is an acronym for:

Think of this as a composition in elementary school when you wrote an introduction, body and conclusion. As a guideline for formulating your answer, the breakdown should be roughly SITUATION / TASK 20%, ACTIONS 70%, and RESULT 10%. This indicates that ACTIONS are the most important part of the answer but remember - we need to hear YOUR actions. We recognize that you may work in a group or team but we want to know YOUR contribution. Concentrate on the word " I " and not "we".

Once you have given your answer, any of the interviewers may ask follow-up questions to clarify details or assist you in properly answering the question if you have missed the mark. Do not put all your eggs in one basket. You will not know the specific question that will be asked. You will need to have more than one example for each competency so you are prepared for any question.

It may be helpful to do some research into Behavioral Descriptive Interviews. You may also check under related topics including Behavior Based Interview or Targeted Selection Interview. Follow the link on our website to the City of Calgary site discussing the interview process.

The following techniques may be helpful in your preparation for the interview:

Mock interviews
It would be ideal if someone who is familiar with BDI can assist you. You may want to avoid close friends/family, as they are often not as objective as you need.

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Preparing For Your 2011 Interview - p4

Videotape yourself
Replay and assess yourself. Do you have any annoying speech patterns ("um", "well like you see") or mannerisms (finger tapping) that will detract from your interview? Alternate suggestions would be audio taping or watching yourself in a mirror.

Write down your examples
It may help to write your examples to each competency down in the STAR format, and then practice by reading the example out aloud.

There are several things you need to remember for your interview.

The Recruiting Unit is located at:
Calgary Police Service - Westwinds Campus
5111 47th Street NE, East Building

Be punctual. It is better to be ten minutes early than one minute late.

Wear suitable business attire. This is a job interview - dress for success!

Bring yourself. We will provide everything you need, i.e. glass of water. You will not be permitted to have notes with you.

Good luck with your interview...

Back to How to Apply

Pre-employment Polygraph Examination

The pre-employment polygraph test assists the Service in identifying applicants who meet our standards of honesty, integrity and suitability for employment. It is essential that applicants provide an honest and full disclosure in the Personal Disclosure Form. Any variance in disclosure between the Personal Disclosure Form and the Pre-employment Polygraph Examination will result in the applicant being deferred from applying to the Calgary Police Service; up to and including a lifetime deferral.

The examination is lengthy and those scheduled to be tested will be given specific instructions prior to testing.

If an applicant has had a pre-employment polygraph within the last 12 months, the applicant must notify their file manager as they may not be required to be tested again.

Psychological Testing and Assessment
Each applicant is required to take a series of psychological tests. A psychologist will evaluate completed psychological tests, which will assist in determining suitability for employment as a police officer. Results remain the property of the Calgary Police Service and will not be disclosed to the applicant.

Security Background Investigation

A thorough security background investigation will be completed on applicants who have been successful to this stage in the application process. This will include, but is not limited to: Applicants will also be asked to provide copies of:

Results of the checks will not be released and remain the sole property of the Calgary Police Service.

Calgary Police Service Location


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New Location
5111 47 Street NE - East
Calgary, AB

Mailing Address
CPS Recruiting Unit (814)
5111 47 Street NE
Calgary, AB T3J 3R2

Inquiries
1-866-CPS-HIRETollfree:
403-428-8483Local:
403-428-4515Fax:
E-mail: cpsrecruiting@calgarypolice.ca

A/Staff Sergeant Jennifer Lessard
A/Sergeant Kelly Karran

It's your time to make a difference! 1-866-CPS-HIRE

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E-mail: info@calgarypolice.ca

Public Contact
CPS Recruiting Unit
1-866-CPS-HIRE
It's your time to make
a difference... join the
Calgary Police Service!
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