Qualifications

In order to work for the St. Helens Police Department, all police officer candidates must meet the following minimum qualifications: 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Must be 21 years or older at the time of application
  • Must possess or be able to obtain a valid driver license by time of hire
  • Must be able to meet all Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) Police Officer standards.
  • Must pass DPSST ORPAT physical agility test
  • Must possess a DPSST Basic Police Officer certification within one year of hire
  • Must be able to read and write the English language
  • Must possess a high school diploma or GED

YOU CANNOT BE A ST. HELENS POLICE OFFICER IF:

  • You cannot obtain a valid driver's license.
  • You will not be 21 years old at time of hire.
  • You have been convicted of D.U.I.I. within the past 3 years or have two or more D.U.I.I. convictions.  A diversion or similar action is the same as a conviction.
  • You have been convicted of Reckless Driving, Attempting to Elude, Hit and Run (Failure to perform the duties of a driver), or Felony Driving While Suspended or Revoked within the last two years.
  • You have been convicted of a domestic violence assault.
  • You have been convicted of a felony.
  • You have been convicted of any crime involving controlled substances.
  • You have a dishonorable discharge from the armed services.

YOU ARE NOT LIKELY TO BE HIRED AS A ST. HELENS POLICE OFFICER IF:

  • Your traffic record shows a continuing and recent pattern of poor decision making.
  • Your personal life shows a history of poor judgment and refusal to confront problems. (Examples: nonpayment of child support, ignoring overdue bills, etc.).
  • You have recently or are currently misrepresenting yourself or ignoring any laws. (Example: not paying taxes, using a false address for school tuition purposes, etc.).
  • You have provided controlled substances to others or have been involved in long-term criminal activity.
  • Your work history shows a pattern of unexcused absences, discipline, or discharge.
  • People who know you have doubts about your honesty or character.

Applicants are also cautioned that success in other police agency selection processes are not guarantees of success in our process. Each case will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account the unique circumstances.