SJPD is hiring new officers, paid academy sponsorship available  

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The St. Joseph Police Department is inviting anyone interested in a Law Enforcement career to participate in their upcoming new hire testing.  

SJPD currently has 18 positions open with the department they would like to see filled soon. 

"Currently, we have 11 people in our hiring process or background investigations," said Sgt. Jeremy Peters with the SJPD. "So realistically, if everything works out, we should be down to about seven positions and we'd like to see all of those filled."

Candidates will complete a written exam covering reading, writing, grammar, and math, followed by a physical agility test. Those who pass both will advance to a panel interview with department leaders.

SJPD emphasizes they are seeking individuals who will be an asset to the team and uphold the department’s high standards.

"Of course, we want people with good integrity and who are self-motivated," Peters said. "We're always looking to add to our staff with people who want to get out into the community and make a difference."

The hiring test will take place on Saturday, May 17 and will be the test where candidates can qualify to get into the local police Academy this summer in July. Tuition and costs for the police Academy training, which will be held at Missouri Western State University's campus, will be fully covered. 

"If we decide to hire an individual, we're going to make sure that the academy gets paid for," Peters said. "While they're attending the classes, they're going to make about $18 an hour to go to school along with accruing benefit time."

New hire testing will start at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 17 at the St. Joseph Police Department, located at 501 Faraon Street.

Students are guaranteed to start earning vacation, holiday and sick leave while in the academy.  

To apply online, visit https://stjosephmo.gov/637/Join-SJPD.