Join BVPD

The Buena Vista Police Department proudly offers a wide range of career options to those who are passionate about serving their community as law enforcement professionals. From patrolling the streets as a police officer, to coordinating emergency calls as a dispatcher, or collecting evidence as an investigator – there is a place for you in the Buena Vista Police Department. As a member of the department, you will be expected to uphold the values of Honor, Integrity, and Service to the people of our community.

1. Application and Interview
   During the initial phase of the recruitment process, applicants are evaluated through tests, assessments, and interviews to assess their potential for success in the law enforcement field.
2. The Academy
   Once they have been successful in the application process, recruits are sent to a law enforcement academy to receive training in the fundamental skills and knowledge required to be a police officer.
3. FTO Program
   Upon completion of the academy, new officers will continue their training at our agency with a field training officer overseeing their progress.
4. Probation
   After completing the FTO Program, trainees will assume the role of police officers, working under the guidance and supervision of their department supervisors.

Candidate Disqualifications

Having any of these on your record may disqualify you from our employment process.

General Disqualifications

• Incomplete, false, or illegible Personal History Statement
• Falsification and/or omission of any requested information
• Rude, belligerent, or otherwise unacceptable behavior towards staff
• Untruthfulness to staff
• Knowingly remaining in a place where illegal drugs were used/sold
• Prior arrests and convictions
• Felony probation/parole
• DUI conviction(s)
• License suspension(s)
• Traffic accident(s)/citations(s)
• Poor employment or education history/performance (i.e., continual firing, poor grades/performance reviews)
• Financial concerns (i.e., bankruptcies/collection accounts/failure to pay child support, etc.)

At Buena Vista PD, Character Matters

Our agency looks for certain qualities in potential candidates. We seek individuals who demonstrate

• Initiative
• Flexibility
• Strong organizational skills
• Excellent communication skills
• A commitment to excellence
• A friendly and professional attitude

Hiring Process

Application Review

When recruitment for open positions at the Buena Vista Police Department opens, a limited number of applications will be accepted, depending on the number of positions to be filled. Once the desired number of applications has been received, recruitment will be closed, and the hiring process will begin. Applications are thoroughly evaluated by City of Buena Vista Human Resources and/or Police Department personnel, and some applicants may be eliminated at this stage. Those who make it through will be contacted via mail, email, or telephone to participate in the next step of the hiring process.

Panel Interview

Successful candidates who pass the Written and Physical Agility Test (when applicable) will be invited to take part in the Oral Board/Interview Panel. During the panel, the applicant’s existing job knowledge, job preparation, and verbal communication skills will be evaluated, as well as their potential for success. Those who pass this stage of the process will be placed on an eligibility list and may be asked to take part in the Background Investigation process, depending on their ranking and the department’s need for further testing.

Background Investigation

The Buena Vista Police Department Detective conducts a background investigation in order to obtain a deeper understanding of the applicant’s motivation and potential for success, as well as gain insight into their personal history. This thorough and detailed inquiry covers all aspects of the applicant’s past and present life.

Chief’s Interview

The Chief of Police has the authority to appoint suitable candidates to the department. If an applicant’s background file warrants further consideration, the Chief of Police may invite them for an interview. During the interview, the Chief of Police will evaluate the applicant’s aptitude for success and may make a Conditional Offer of Employment.

Conditional Offer

Applicants must meet the minimum requirements set forth conditionally in order to be eligible for hire. Applicants are subject to a physical examination and psychological evaluation by licensed professionals before their employment is finalized.

If you have any questions about joining the Buena Vista Police Department, please contact a recruiter for additional information.

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