What is the hiring process with the police department?

The Gilbert Police Department is interested in applicants looking to use their superb communication skills, dedication, and drive to bolster our stellar work force, and provide exceptional service to all our citizens.

Below you will find an outline of the testing process. Begin filling out the necessary forms and compiling the required paperwork sooner than later so you can be prepared.

Updated GPD Hiring Steps

Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited via email to participate in a testing process during the month following their application. (For example: If you apply in April, you will be invited to test in May)

If you have already applied, thank you for your continued patience and interest in joining the Gilbert Police Department. You will receive an email with specific instructions regarding the testing date.

#JoinGilbertPD

All imperative updates will be posted here as well.

Chat with a Recruiter by texting 480-637-5298 or scan the QR code:

Talk with a police recruiter

Apply Online

All applicants are required to complete an online application. When submitting your application, you must provide clear, concise, and complete information regarding your qualifications for the position. Those candidates whose qualifications best meet the Town’s needs will be invited to participate in further testing for the position.

To view open positions, please click here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/gilbert

Physical Agility Test

Minimum Required:

This examination consists of three timed exercises that are designed to measure strength and endurance. The exam includes sit-ups, push-ups, and a 1.5 mile run.  Below shows the minimum requirements.  It is recommended applicant’s be able to do more than the minimum required to ensure they are able to pass the exam:

  • Sit Ups: 36 (within 1 minute)
  • Push Ups: 20 (untimed)
  • 1.5 Mile Run: 15:48 minutes

Here are some tips we recommend helping you succeed in taking the physical fitness test:

  • Get a physician’s exam prior to the test to identify any possible health issues.  Explain your intentions to your doctor and ask for his/her honest opinion as to your general ability to do high stress exercises.  Regardless of the answer, you will be better educated as to what your limitations are.
  • Begin a fitness program as soon as possible.  The program should include aerobic exercise, such as running or bicycling, as well as some light weightlifting to increase strength.  If you’re new to routine exercise, consult a fitness trainer for a routine that will help you achieve your goals.  Before and after your workouts, spend extra time stretching out; flexibility is a key to doing well on these tests.
  • The night prior to your test, eat a meal high in carbohydrates.  Potatoes or pasta would be good examples.  Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they tend to dehydrate your body.  Also, begin drinking water and over-hydrating your system.  Many applicants suffer from dehydration because they forget this simple rule of life in the desert.  Don’t forget to bring water and fruit to the test for extra energy if you need it.
  • Wear light fitness clothing.  Supportive “sport type” undergarments are encouraged.
  • Arrive at the test site early.  This will give you extra time to warm up and stretch.
  • You may also consider having a friend drive you to and from the test.  Driving can be difficult and annoying when you’re physically exhausted.  Remember to bring your driver’s license for proper identification.
  • Finally, be friendly and encouraging to your co-applicants.  Remember, good attitudes and teamwork go far in law enforcement.

Online Written Examinations

The written Arizona POST examination will test applicants’ skills in vocabulary, spelling and reading comprehension. The exam also tests the applicant’s general knowledge and may have some reference to law enforcement principles.  For convenience, Gilbert PD has moved to an online-based written examination.  Click here for the National Testing Network (NTN) online-based written examination.

If you are an applicant who has already taken the test for another agency, please reach out to NTN to have your scores released to Gilbert PD (nominal fee per NTN to complete this task).  Per NTN’s website, applicants can add Gilbert Police Department by logging into your account at nationaltestingnetwork.com and click on the “Add Departments for (Your Career Path)” button, choose Gilbert Police Department and pay their fee (as of August 2024, the fee for each job added is $15).  Please refer to NTN’s website for updated information.

If you are experiencing financial hardship, you can contact NTN and work with them for a reduced fee.  Please note, the reduced fee option is through the National Testing Network and not with Gilbert Police Department.  To contact NTN for support on their website, you can submit a request from their Contact NTN Support Form by clicking here or by calling (206) 428-3265.

Candidate Conversation

The candidate conversation introduces the applicant’s qualifications and verbal skills. This conversation allows the candidate to tell us a little bit about themselves.  This is a great opportunity to make a good impression.  The candidate can help to prepare by developing an opening statement in advance which includes a short career summary, a summary of strengths and accomplishments, and why the candidate would be a good fit for Gilbert PD.

Background Investigation

Applicants who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process are required to undergo a thorough background investigation. The investigation is used to determine an applicant’s moral character and suitability for employment in law enforcement. The investigation shall include, but is not limited to, the following reviews: criminal record, polygraph examination, driving record, credit history, military record, current and previous employment history and references.

Psychological & Medical Examinations

Applicants will be evaluated for their suitability for employment as Gilbert Police Officers. All applicants must also successfully complete a Town medical examination, including a drug screening, to determine if they meet the Town’s medical standards for the position of Police Officer.

Disqualifying Factors

To ensure the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and public trust, the Gilbert Police Department follows strict background guidelines for all applicants. Disqualifying factors include but are not limited to:

  • Felony convictions
  • Dishonorable discharge from the U.S. military
  • Domestic violence convictions involving force or weapons
  • Recent or extensive illegal drug use
    • Marijuana:
      • Personal possession or personal use within 6 months, or at any point while appointed as a peace officer.
      •  Personal sale, production, or cultivation at any time in your lifetime.
    •  Steroids:
      • Illegal use within three (3) years prior to appointment or at any point as a peace officer.
    •  Adderall:
      • Illegal use within three (3) years prior to appointment or at any point as a peace officer.
    •  Dangerous Drugs, Narcotics, Hallucinogens, and Prescription Drugs:
      • Illegal use more than five (5) times in lifetime.
      • Illegal use more than one (1) time after the age of 21.
      • Illegal use within the past seven (7) years or at any point as a peace officer.
      •  Illegal sale, production, cultivation, or transport for sale at any time.
  • Multiple or recent DUI convictions and/ or serious driving violations
  • Current internal investigations or prior AZPOST certification issues

Important: Securing an offer of employment from a law enforcement agency does not guarantee certification. AZPOST can, and does, deny certification to individuals who do not meet their standards—even if they’ve been offered a position.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the full AZPOST Background and Certification Rules before beginning the process.