Hiring Process

Application  

All applicants must complete the online application on myPD.joingvpd.com or NEO.GOV.  

1. Department Interview
   The Department interview will be conducted by a panel to assess an applicant’s personal accomplishments, job motivation, community involvement/awareness, problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills, and oral communication skills. Only candidates who pass this part of the process will receive a conditional job offer.  

2. Background Investigation 
   Applicants must complete and submit a Personal History Statement (PHS), which requires extensive biographical information. The background investigation will include checks of employment, police, financial, education, and military records.  

3. Medical Evaluation
   The medical evaluation is thorough, and it is essential that candidates be in excellent health with no conditions that would restrict their ability to safely perform the essential functions of the police officer job. Good physical condition is necessary, as training in the Academy is rigorous.  

4. Psychological Evaluation
   The psychological evaluation consists of an individual oral interview and evaluation by a police department psychologist on factors related to successful performance in the difficult and stressful job of police officer. The evaluation includes written psychological tests along with information obtained in the background investigation process.