STEP 1:  WRITTEN EXAM

 All applicants will be required to show photo identification to gain admittance into the testing area.  The applicant must maintain photo identification at all times throughout the testing process in the event a question of eligibility should arise.  Failure to supply some form of formalized identification card, with photograph, such as a driver’s license or state identification card will result in the elimination of the applicant from employment consideration. 

Applicants who receive a POST T-Score of 42 or greater will be eligible to continue in the selection process.

STEP 2:  PHYSICAL AGILITY TEST

The examination itself consists of 3 events designed to measure endurance, strength, and agility.  Each event is individually scored and a passing score must be attained in each to continue to the next event.  If you fail an event, you will be dropped from further participation at that point.

This is a PASS/FAIL test. Failure of any one section is a disqualification.  You should wear rubber-soled shoes and clothing suitable for the following listed activities.  Applicants who do not pass the PAT exam can reapply after 6 months.

STEP 3:  INITIAL INTERVIEW

Interviews will be scheduled for applicants who successfully pass the Written Exam and Physical Agility Test.

Standard sets of questions are asked of each applicant and the applicant is scored based on their answers.  An opportunity is provided for the applicants to present their strong points and verbalize why they would be an asset to the Monrovia Police Department.

Applicants are evaluated in the following areas:

STEP 4: BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

Upon successfully passing the initial interview, the applicants will receive a multipage “Pre-Employment” background questionnaire which will be completed and submitted to the background investigator prior to the next step in the application process. 

 Failure to supply the information requested results in an automatic disqualification.  Additionally, applicants are required to supply certificates of high school graduation, high school and college transcripts, a copy of their social security cards, Military DD214 (if applicable), and a copy of their driver’s license.

Applicants who pass the initial interview will receive a multi-page “Personal History Form” (intensive background form) which is required to be completed and returned prior to being assigned to a background investigator.  Failure to supply the information requested results in an automatic disqualification.

STEP 5:  POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION

In addition to the background investigation, each applicant is required to undergo a pre-employment polygraph examination.  A qualified polygraph examiner employed by the Monrovia Police Department administers the test.  The polygraph examination is designed to show an applicant as being “truthful.” All of the questions posed to the applicant during the examination are discussed with the applicant prior to the actual testing.

At this point, an extensive background investigation is undertaken which consists of personal contacts and phone contacts with listed references, school teachers, administrators, employers, co-workers, neighbors, unlisted references that can be located, spouse, ex-spouses and friends.  Additionally, an applicant’s current financial responsibility is checked, past credit history examined, and criminal history checks are made.

STEP 6:  INTERVIEW WITH THE CHIEF OF POLICE / CONDITIONAL OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT

The completed background investigation file is sent to Command staff for their review and determination on whether the applicant continues forward in the employment process.  If the candidate is approved, they may be interviewed by the Chief of Police.  With the Chief’s approval, a conditional offer of employment is then made in writing, contingent upon passing a psychological and medical exam.

STEP 7: PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING/MEDICAL EVALUATION

Each applicant receiving a conditional job offer is required to undergo an extensive medical examination to ensure their physical condition and ability to perform the duties and functions required of this profession.  During this examination a mandatory drug and alcohol screen is administered.

 If an applicant is determined to be “not qualified,” the applicant will be notified that they have been removed from the employment process.  Applicants are also required to undergo a psychological evaluation.

 These tests are scored, rated and used to evaluate applicants’ mental and emotional ability to perform police work. The psychological interview will be conducted by the City’s designated mental health professional.

COMMON DISQUALIFIERS FOR APPLICANTS

Below is a list of the most common areas that may disqualify an applicant for a position with Monrovia Police Department.  However, other information or facts revealed during the background investigation may also be sufficient to disqualify a candidate.  If you have a question regarding any of these areas, please contact the Personnel and Training Bureau at (626)256-8021. 

The guidelines below relate to the actual illegal use of drugs and are not intended to exclude those persons who are not illegally using drugs.

These guidelines are not comprehensive and are subject to change without notice.

NOTE:

This list is not all inclusive and other information or facts revealed in the detailed background investigation may also be sufficient to disqualify an applicant.