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1. Step 1: Written Examination through National Testing Network

Register yourself to participate in the National Testing Network Frontline Written Examination as soon as possible. Visit the National Testing Network page, select Law Enforcement, and sign up for the City of Ventura Police Department.

Testing takes about 2.5 hours and there are three components: 

1. Video-based human relations test

2. Reading ability test

3. Written language ability test

If you have already taken the California Peace Officer Standards and Training Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery or have already completed the National Testing Network Frontline Written Examination, then please submit test scores upon application.

2. Step 2: Online Application

Visit the City of Ventura's Employment Opportunities website and apply online. On this site, you'll find all current City of Ventura job openings and will find more information on if we're currently hiring Police Officer Trainees or Lateral or Academy Trained Police Officers.

3. Step 3: Personal History Statement

The applicant will be interviewed to determine their qualifications. If successful, the applicant will be given a Personal History Statement (PHS) and a list of required documents that will need to be gathered. All applicants must complete and return the POST Form 2-251 to the Police Department.

4. Step 4: Department Selection Interview

The first interview panel consists of three city employees who ask the candidate questions about their qualifications, experience, desire to be an officer, and various scenario-based questions. 

 

The most qualified candidates will be invited to a second interview with Ventura Police Professional Standards Unit.

5. Step 5: Polygraph Examination

A thorough Polygraph Examination is conducted to confirm information obtained during the selection process.

6. Step 6: Background Investigation

The background investigation includes checks of employment, police, financial, education and military records, and interviews with family members, neighbors, supervisors, coworkers and friends. You will be evaluated on your past behavior and the extent to which your behavior demonstrates positive traits that support your candidacy for Police Officer Trainee.

Trying to hide past issues, no matter how small, or failing to provide required information, are two of the biggest reasons candidates will fail a background investigation.

7. Step 7: Chief's Interview

Interview with the Chief of Police.

8. Step 8: Psychological and Medical Testing

The Medical Evaluation is thorough, and it is essential that you be in excellent health with no conditions which would restrict your ability to safely perform the essential functions of the police officer job. Good physical condition is necessary, as training in the Academy is rigorous. Failure to be in excellent physical condition may delay or disrupt training and result in a dismissal from the Academy. 

A thorough psychological evaluation will be conducted.

9. Step 9: Police Academy

Candidates selected for hire will enter a 23-week paid Police Academy at the Ventura County Criminal Justice Training Center in Camarillo, CA.

Learn more about minimum qualifications, benefits, selection plan and online application here.https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofventura