Step 1 Written Examination (Qualifying lateral entry applicants will proceed directly to Step 3)

The National Police Officer Selection Test (POST) is an entry-level basic skills test that assists law enforcement agencies in identifying qualified applicants by ensuring that candidates possess the basic cognitive skills necessary to successfully perform the job. The POST is a valid, job-related test designed specifically for law enforcement use, which measures these basic skills: Arithmetic, Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Incident Report Writing. The POST exam is used for law enforcement officer selection by a variety of municipal, county, state and federal agencies. The POST is the official test of 25 state Police Chief Associations. Online POST practice tests and preparation guides can be purchased by applicants to prepare for the written examination.

Online POST Practice Tests: Applicants can go to Study Guide Purchase Link and pay a $15.00 fee to take an online practice version of the POST test that applicants will encounter on exam day.

Applicants will be able to see if they can complete each test section in the time allowed and review their work with any time remaining. After the time expires or the applicant has submitted their work, applicants will receive immediate

feedback about their performance. Thorough explanations are provided for each incorrect response so you better understand how to improve. Please note that purchases are good for one attempt at the POST practice exam.

Online POST Preparation Guides: Applicants can go to https://www.applytoserve.com/Study/ and pay a $5.00 fee to obtain an online POST study guide that will assist applicants in learning about the National Police Officer Selection Test (POST) before actually taking it. Includes sample questions in addition to information about test sections and time limits.

Don’t wait until the last minute to order your guide!

Step 2 Physical Ability Rowing Test (Qualifying lateral entry applicants will proceed directly to Step 3)

The physical ability rowing test is designed to determine the overall fitness level of an applicant. All applicants must pass the physical ability test on the Concept2 Rower at 50% based on standardized age and gender norms. The applicant’s target time will be set according to their age, gender and weight on the day of the exam. Applicants not passing the physical ability rowing test on the Concept2 Rower will not be allowed to continue through the hiring process. Applicants will be allowed to reapply during the next scheduled examination. The physical ability rowing test consists of rowing 2000 meters on a Concept2 Rower with the damper set at level “5”. Applicants cannot put their feet on the ground until they are finished. Applicants should view the below video tutorial on how to use the rower. Applicants will be encouraged to prepare for the exam by training on the Concept2 Rower which is available at local gyms & fitness facilities.

The following links have been provided to assist applicants in preparing for the physical ability rowing test. The rowing stroke is depicted at Rowing Technique Link along with common rowing errors at Common Rowing Errors Link. Applicants can also determine the maximum time allowed to complete the physical ability rowing test at the following links: Concept 2 Rower Max Calculator and Calculator Instructions. The Calculator form can assist you in determining your requirements and to establish your fitness goals.

Step 3 Issuance & Completion of Personal History Statement:

A completed Personal History Statement is used as a basis for a background investigation that will determine your eligibility for the position for which you are applying. It is essential that all information be complete and accurate. An accurate and complete Personal History Statement will expedite your background investigation; deliberate omissions or falsifications will result in disqualification.

Step 4 Personal History Statement Review:

After the personal history statement has been submitted, a review of the packet and documents along with a preliminary interview will be conducted. This interview and review is utilized to ascertain whether any immediate disqualifiers exist that would prevent the applicant from continuing in the hiring process.

Step 5 Oral Review Board:

After a successful personal history statement review and preliminary interview, the applicant will be scheduled for an oral review board. An oral review board is comprised of three to five members that are comprised of various personnel from a myriad of divisions. The oral review board is used to test an applicant’s verbal skills and get an idea of the applicant’s overall reasoning abilities and common sense.

Step 6 Background Investigation:

The background investigation will verify information that the applicant provided on the personal history statement as well as attempting to locate omitted or contradictory information. Multiple State and Federal databases will be searched to locate any criminal history records, driving records, military records and even law enforcement contacts that could affect the applicant’s suitability for employment.

Step 7 Psychological Evaluation:

Psychological exams are comprised of a pre-test self-interview or evaluation along with a series of multiple-choice tests or surveys. The psychologist will also conduct a sit-down interview with the applicant and rate their suitability for employment.

Step 8 Polygraph Examination:

The polygraph is a diagnostic instrument that records physiological changes in a person caused by stress, like answering questions that could affect an applicant’s suitability for employment. The polygraph relies upon measuring the body's involuntary responses which occur when the subject is consciously being deceptive or untruthful.

Step 9 Medical Examination:

Applicants being considered for employment will be scheduled for a medical examination. The medical examination will be conducted by a physician designated by the City of Red Oak and will determine whether the applicant meets the medical standards required to be a Red Oak Police Officer.

Step 10 Drug Testing:

Applicants desiring to be a Police officer will have immense responsibility and will undergo drug testing to confirm their suitability for employment.

Step 11 Follow Up Investigation:

Any items that were discovered or revealed since the background investigation was completed that require additional investigation.

The City of Red Oak is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 require the City of Red Oak to hire only U.S. Citizens and lawfully authorized alien workers. Employability verification will be required of prospective employees.