A look behind the scenes of SJPD recruitment testing

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Joining the St. Joseph Police Department proves to be both a rewarding and challenging endeavor.

As the SJPD looks to increase recruitment, there are certain requirements applicants have to fulfil to "make the team".

Every officer begins their career by passing a rigorous recruitment process designed to assess mental sharpness, physical fitness and overall readiness for law enforcement.

From background checks to obstacle courses, this process ensures only the most qualified individuals move forward.

"I've always wanted to be a police officer," said one potential recruit Jessica Wolfenbarger, "I want to break generational curses. I'm just trying to be better, be more for my kids."

Before any testing begins, all applicants must pass a comprehensive background check. This includes a review of criminal history, employment records, driving records and more. Integrity and personal responsibility are key traits the SJPD looks for from the very start.

The first formal test in the process is the written exam, which evaluates cognitive abilities crucial to policing. This standardized exam includes several categories: reading comprehension, grammar and writing, logical reasoning and judgment, and basic math.

Preparation is essential. Candidates are encouraged to study using law enforcement prep guides, take practice exams and strengthen their detail-oriented reading skills. This is the first filter in the hiring process.

Candidates who pass the written portion are invited to take the physical agility test, which evaluates strength, speed, coordination and endurance.

The current physical test includes a timed quarter-mile run that measures cardiovascular endurance and base-level conditioning. Recruits must then complete a weighted drag, simulating the act of pulling an injured person to safety. The dummy typically weighs between 120 and 180 pounds and challenges grip strength and core stability.

Next is the obstacle course, which tests a recruit’s ability to maneuver through real-world challenges.

Obstacles include carrying and moving a 25-pound object, completing a tire run drill, walking across a balance beam, climbing a 10-foot wall, crawling through tunnels, climbing over a 6-foot wall, climbing through a window and scaling a 4-foot wall. These tasks test upper-body strength, coordination and endurance.

Training ahead of time is vital. A combination of cardio, strength training and practical obstacle course drills can significantly increase a candidate’s chances of success.

Throughout the recruitment process, professionalism, attitude and composure are continuously evaluated. Being punctual, respectful, and prepared leaves a lasting impression on recruiters, qualities that matter as much as performance.

"It's a good process, it's a good experience, and we're looking forward to seeing how everybody's gonna do today that's testing with us," said Sergeant Jeremy Peters with SJPD.

The department offers a competitive salary and benefits, including opportunities to test for promotion and specialized units, paid health, dental and life insurance, paid vacation that increases with time, paid sick leave, twelve paid holidays, a uniform allowance, two deferred compensation plans and enrollment in the LAGERS retirement system.