Recruiting Basics

Knowledge

Effective police officers need a strong foundation in knowledge of the law and modern community-based policing methods. You will learn CPS policy & procedure, municipal, provincial, federal laws and statutes including the Criminal Code of Canada and much, much more.

Physical Demands

It goes without saying that maintaining a high level of fitness is a must, given the physical nature of police work. Being physically fit allows you to best serve the community and your fellow officers.

Work Environment

CPS patrol officers work shiftwork.  Depending on the rotation this may include 8, 10 or 12 hour shifts rotating between days and nights. Working shiftwork is an expectation of the job.

Salary and Benefits

The CPS has a competitive salary starting at approximately $78,800 and rising to $121,000 after 4 years of completed service. Benefits include Dental, extended Health services and a health spending account. Plus you will receive full pay and benefits during your training.

Requirements of a CPS Officer

We expect a great deal from the people we select to serve the citizens of Calgary as police officers. Our members must have a high degree of personal integrity, display sound judgment, intelligent decision making, maturity and common sense. We support a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace and expect our applicants to display these values.

The CPS has seven core values: Respect, Honesty, Compassion, Courage, Fairness, Accountability and Integrity. The importance of having these traits cannot be stressed enough – nor can they be taught. These are the foundations of what makes a good CPS officer.

Minimum Requirements

  • Grade 12 diploma or equivalent.
  • Canadian citizen or permanent resident status.
  • At least 18 years of age.
  • Class 5 Driver’s license (non GDL) with no more than five demerit points.
  • Meet medical/health and fitness standards. Medical Self Assessment Tool.
  • No unpardoned criminal convictions.
  • No criminal charges pending before the courts.
  • No criminal activity within the last three years both detected and undetected.
  • One year clear of discharge date from a bankruptcy.
  • Ability to pass Enhanced Security Clearance (conducted by the CPS)*
  • *Obtaining an Enhanced Security Clearance can be challenging if you have not lived in Canada or the United States of America for a minimum of three years (depending on residency).

Please note that these requirements are a prerequisite and you must meet them to apply. Also, remember that having the minimum requirements allow you to apply, but does not necessary mean you will be successful in our competitive hiring process. Some candidates may meet the minimum requirements but are not competitive, suitable or meet the core values of our organization.

The competencies that we are looking for are:

  1. Interpersonal Skills
  2. Adaptability / Decisiveness
  3. Stress Management
  4. Valuing Service and Diversity
  5. Initiative / Perseverance

Respect

Consider another’s values, beliefs, thoughts and ideas.

We recognize that our behaviour in the community and at work is grounded in human dignity. Our consideration of others in the most routine and the most trying of times is what distinguishes our place in the community. When we give respect, we earn respect.

Honesty

Be truthful in our words and actions.

We understand honesty builds upon the respect we share with one another and the community.  We are honest about the realities we face, the actions we take, and the outcomes we have.

Compassion

Show care and concern for the wellbeing of others.

We know care is given to all, regardless of circumstances. We realize that our actions towards someone, sometimes when they are experiencing their most tragic and vulnerable moments, can be life altering and they can give hope.

Courage

Face adversity and stand up for what is right.

We accept that it takes resolve to address the challenges we will face. We will always accept those as necessary steps that allow good to prevail.

Fairness

Give just and impartial treatment to others.

We acknowledge we all carry unique personal beliefs, values and attitudes. We always provide care and service that is void of judgment.

Accountability

Be fiercely responsible to the public and to each other for our actions.

We embrace the importance of answering to others, whether we work with them or for them. In doing so, we strive to always act in the best interest of our collective goals.

Integrity

Consistently practice our values and principles.

We know every decision and action must stand the test of whether it reflects our ethos and best serves our community – both internal and external. Our actions must always strive to uphold the trust we build.

Events / Applicant Resource Sessions

Calgary Events

Our events, also known as applicant resources, include information sessions, Run with a Recruiter (RWAR), the Alberta Police Cognitive Ability Test (APCAT) workshop, Behavioural Descriptive Interview (BDI) Prep and other specialized sessions.

Please be sure to arrive on time for all in-person and virtual events. Due to logistics and our facility security requirements, we are unable to admit any late attendees once a session has started.

Cancellation Policy: We kindly ask for a minimum of 48 hours’ notice if you cannot attend a session you have RSVP’d for. Our events fill up quickly and cancelled spots will be filled accordingly through our waitlist.

To cancel, please follow the instructions through Eventbrite.

The Process

The application process is a detailed and extremely time-consuming process to engage in – but it is designed to help us identify the very best applicants to become Calgary Police Service officers. It may take up to nine months to complete from beginning to end. As such, you must be mentally and physically ready to complete each step of the process before you apply.

Learn More About the Process

Contact CPS Recruiting

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