Mesa Police Department Reserve Officer Program

The Mesa Police Department has an active reserve organization, with a long history of service to the community. The Mesa Police reserves are made up of people from all walks of life. Most reserves have satisfying civilian positions and simply wish to do police work as a way of serving their community. A reserve candidate may or may not be interested in becoming a full-time officer. It is suggested that candidates interested in full-time employment first test for full-time before considering entry into the reserve unit. The Mesa Police reserves are accepting applications.

Requirements

1. Must be 21 years of age.
2. Must be in good physical and mental health.
3. Must possess a valid Arizona driver’s license.
4. Must not have a history of criminal or improper personal conduct that may affect
    suitability for police work.
5. Must possess a United States high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent.
6. United States Citizenship required.

Examination

1. Written test
2. Background investigation
3. Oral Interview
4. Physical agility test
5. Polygraph
6. Medical examination
7. Psychological examination

Candidates who successfully complete all phases of this testing process will be allowed to register with the Glendale Community College as a cadet.

Glendale Community College Law Enforcement Academy

The Glendale Community College Law Enforcement Academy starts classes each January and August. Agency sponsored cadets may register for these classes without being screened by the academy at the cadets' expense. The academy consists of 617 hours of training as specified by Arizona Police Officers Standards and Training (AZPOST). This training will take two 15-week college semesters. For information on the Academy training days and hours, consult the GCC Academy website at www.gc.maricopa.edu/justice/.

The cadet will be required to purchase, at their own expense, clothing, both professional and exercise related, regulation uniform shoes, belt, holster, handcuffs with keys.

Field Training

Upon successful completion of the academy the officer, may at their discretion, choose to enter the field training phase. During this phase the officer will work through four different field training segments where they will be trained and evaluated by various Field Training Officers (FTOs). When the officer successfully completes the field training phase they will be allowed to work as a solo patrol officer. If the reserve officer chooses not to participate in the FTO program, he will be assigned as a two-person car. Only officers who have completed field training will be allowed to participate in off-duty employment.

Requirements of a Mesa Police Reserve Officer

Certified reserve officers are required by department policy to complete a minimum of 8 hours of patrol related activity in a calendar month. They are required to participate in all in-service training mandated by the Department for its active duty personnel. Reserve officers will be provided with this training during evenings and weekends for their convenience. If they prefer they may take this training with the regular department members during normal business hours. Reserve officers will be required to participate in departmental shoots and must maintain a passing score to continue to work in a sworn capacity.

The Mesa Police Department tests both regular and reserve candidates several times a year. For the next scheduled testing time, contact the Mesa Police Human Resources Unit at (480) 644-2816.

If you are interested, apply and discover whether you have what it takes to become a Mesa police reserve officer.

If you have any questions please call (480) 644-2326 to leave a message, or e-mail Lt. J. McGown.