Job Requirements
Original Entrance - Examination
Minimum Requirements: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and two years (60 semester hours of credit) at an accredited college or university. Possession of a valid driver's license. SUBSTITUTION: Additional experience as a sworn law enforcement officer or as a member of the military police may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis to a maximum of two years.
Examination: The examination will consist of a written test weighted 100%. The minimum passing score on the written test will be 70% unless determined otherwise by the Director of Human Resources. Candidates must achieve a passing score to have their names placed on the eligible list. The written test will assess candidates' knowledge, skill and ability in areas such as interacting with others; written communication; interpreting and applying written information; and problem solving.
WRITTEN TEST: The written test will be administered on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at St. Rita High School, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL. Candidates should report at 9:00 a.m. with the approved (printed) admission letter and driver's license or other form of photo identification. Calculators will be provided, if required. The use of books, study guides, cell phones, tablets, smartwatches, laptops or other aids during the test is prohibited. Parking at the school is limited and public transportation is recommended. Off-duty police officers and security guards who may be taking this test will not be allowed onto the test site carrying a weapon. All police officer candidates are subject to metal detection screening upon entering the test site. The performance test will assess candidates’ ability to demonstrate skill in performing electrical tasks in areas such as those listed above.
Pre-job Offer Requirements: Candidates must meet the minimum requirements as described in this announcement. Candidates must pass the written test as described in this announcement. Candidates must be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment. Candidates must be citizens of the United States. Candidates may not have felony convictions. Certain misdemeanor convictions may also disqualify candidates. Top performing candidates on the written test will participate in the following post-examination selection activities: background investigation, psychological screening, and verification of education and experience.
Post-Job Offer Requirements: Candidates will be required to pass a physical examination, drug test, physical agility/fitness testing, Peace Officer Wellness Evaluation Report (P.O.W.E.R. Test), and psychological screening; and possess an Illinois Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card. Within six months of appointment, candidates must successfully complete a 480-hour Minimum Standard Basic Law Enforcement Training Course (Training Academy) which includes classroom and rigorous physical training. The duration of the training academy will be approximately 16 weeks and may require travel outside of the Cook County/Chicago metropolitan area. (This course may not be required for sworn peace officers with prior law enforcement experience.) Satisfactory completion of probation is required. The probationary period for this classification is one year.
Original Entrance - Appointments
Appointments will be made from an eligible list with three categories: A (Exceptionally Well Qualified), B (Well Qualified) and C (Qualified). Candidates in the highest category will be given first consideration for appointment. The eligible list has a duration of three years.