Selection Process
The Selection Process consists of eight steps, all of which must be successfully completed before a candidate may be hired as a Probationary Police Officer. Generally, candidates must complete each step before being scheduled for the next. Successful candidates may expect to make four to five visits to various City testing sites during the process.
Written Test
The entrance examination consists of a written test usually containing 100 questions. This is a multiple-choice test that measures aptitude, reading comprehension, and English usage. You must score at least 70% correct in order to pass the entrance examination and move forward in the hiring process. The score you receive on the entrance examination will determine your ranking on the hiring roster. (§ 143.025)
Physical Agility Test
The Physical Agility Test consists of events designed to measure your strength, agility, and endurance. This is a pass/fail qualifying test. See detailed Physical Agility Testing Information Sheet.
Background Investigation
The background investigation includes:
- Criminal History Check of Police Records
- Driving Record Evaluation
- General Mode of Living
- Military and Employment Histories
- Personal Characteristics
- Reference Checks
Evaluation
You are evaluated on:
- Ability to Maintain Confidential Information
- Driving Record
- Employment and Military Record
- Financial Record
- Honesty
- Mature Judgment
- Respect for Others
- Use of Drugs and Intoxicants
- Your Respect for the Law
You must submit comprehensive biographical information for this investigation. You will also be subject to a pre-employment Polygraph Examination.
Interview Panel
The oral interview is a behavior-based review of;
- Community Service Orientation
- Motivation
- Oral Communication Ability
- Providing an Evaluation of Your Problem-Solving Abilities
- Respect for Diversity
- Role Adaptability
- Your Personal History
The interview panel will be comprised of various members of the Marshall Police Department.
Polygraph Examination
A Polygraph Examination is conducted to confirm information obtained during your background investigation, as well as to determine honesty and integrity.
Psychological Interview
The Psychological Interview consists of an interview and evaluation by a City selected psychologist on factors related to the mental fitness required to perform the difficult and stressful job-related requirements of being a Police Officer. (§ 143.022)
Conditional Offer / Hiring
In order to be hired, all phases of the testing process must be successfully completed. Your original entrance examination score determines your placement on the hiring roster. Each hiring roster is valid for a period of not less than six months, and not greater than twelve months unless all names on the hiring roster have been exhausted (§ 143.025). As positions become available, you may be offered a position with the Marshall Police Department (§ 143.026). All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a medical examination and substance abuse screening.
Medical Examination / Substance Abuse Screening (Urinalysis)
The post-offer medical examination and substance abuse screening tests are administered by a City selected Physician. It is essential that candidates have no health conditions that would restrict their ability to safely perform all essential functions of police work. (§ 143.022)