TUCSON, Ariz. - KGUN9 on Your Side wants to help you get past coronavirus and be ready for the rebound to come. So our rebound series looks at the opportunities ahead---including your chance to find a career in law enforcement.
People looking ahead to a new job after the coronavirus could make Tucson Police part of their personal rebound.
Tucson Police offer $47,000 a year to start, good benefits and a rarity in the modern workplace---a pension. Officer Melissa Ayun says that package attracted her to TPD 14 years ago. She says she just loves her work. And the people she works with.
As for your background, they want the sort of diversity that reflects Tucson and the people officers serve..
“When they relate to us, it's easier for them to trust us and allow us to help them.”
To apply, you must be a US Citizen. You must not have any felonies on your record and you must pass a drug test.
Because of virus precautions TPD does not require the usual physical fitness test to apply but training at the Academy will test your fitness and you will have to measure up.
Being invited to the Academy does still require passing a written exam to assess abilities you’ll need as an officer.
The coronavirus effect on the economy is squeezing the city budget, but not relieving the need for more officers; so Tucson is committing to hiring new recruits but the virus will revise Academy training to allow remote learning and social distancing.
“And as far as the physical training, the hands on type stuff, they've moved back, and so later into the Academy. So hopefully by the time social distancing, restrictions are lifted, they're able to continue on with that portion of the Academy. “
For more information you can visit the TPD recruiting website. Time is short to apply. The deadline is May 11. Candidates who earn an invitation to the Academy will report in August.
