Community Policing: The purpose of this position is to serve and protect life and property within the city limits of Grand Rapids. The position enforces laws and ordinances, works with citizens to address problems, and improves police and community relations.

Tactical: The purpose of this job is to perform tactical operations throughout the city. Responsible for Patrol Officer duties in any capacity needed or requested throughout the City, which includes special events, foot, bike, uniformed or plainclothes and Segway patrols.

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must have a valid driver's license and be able to obtain a Michigan Driver's license by date of hire.
• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• US citizenship
• Some experience involves communicating with people under varying circumstances.
• Candidates for positions in this class are required to meet initial employment requirements as established by the Civil Service Board.
• Must take and receive a passing score on the Grand Rapids Civil Service Exam for Police Officers.

Must take and receive a passing score on the Grand Rapids Civil Service Exam for Police Officers.
Meet all State of Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards, as found HERE.

OUT-OF-STATE CERTIFIED OFFICERS: Please contact the Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) at (517)322-1417 to determine your eligibility and available dates for the Recognition of Prior Training and Experience Program (RPTE). (Link to RPTE website)

1. Entrance Exam (8AM):

• National Criminal Justice Officer Selection Inventory (cognitive/integrity)
• Study guides are available at GR Public Libraries or for purchase (New Study Guide Link)

2. Oral Exam (10AM-12PM): A structured interview proctored by a panel of Human Resources and Police personnel
3. Interview (1-5PM): Facilitated by Police Chief
4. Personal History Questionnaire: You will receive an invitation from Guardian to create account and initiate the process.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision starting on Day 1
• GRPD has a defined benefit pension plan.
• Employee & Employer contributions to Retiree Health Savings Account
• Voluntary benefits such as term life insurance, flexible spending accounts, accidental insurance, disability insurance, and deferred compensation plan options
• Thirteen Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Time
• Paid parking (if applicable)
• Employee Home Ownership Incentive
• Tuition Reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program with free mental health counseling
• Comprehensive Wellness program with a health and wellness incentive
• Employee Discounts and Perks

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to our Leaves and Accommodations Analyst, Amanda Kaulback. Email akaulback@grand-rapids.mi.us or HRemploymentbenefits@grcity.us or by phone at (616) 456-4668.

The City of Grand Rapids does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy or gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.

Please Note:
This position is subject to the provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreement and all relevant civil service rules. For additional information, links to union agreement and Civil Service Rules are provided below.

Collective Bargaining Agreements

Civil Service Rules(Download PDF reader)(Download PDF reader)(Download PDF reader)