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If you are considering a career in policing please review the information below, tell us how you meet our qualifications, and forward your cover letter and resume to careers@oakbaypolice.org. This is the first step towards deciding if policing is the right fit for you.

Basic Qualifications

Anyone applying to be a police officer must meet the following basic qualifications and criteria:

  • Minimum age 19 years
  • No criminal record for which a pardon has not been granted
  • No adult criminal charges pending
  • Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Meet visual acuity standards
  • Meet our hearing standards
  • A demonstrated fit and healthy lifestyle
  • Ability to successfully undergo an extensive background investigation involving workplace, personal, financial and neighborhood enquiries
  • A valid Class 5 driver’s license with a good driving history
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Valid First Aid Certificate
  • CPR-C Level
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

The following qualifications are not necessary but are considered advantageous:

  • A degree, diploma or other certification in any field of study
  • Knowledge of a second language or culture
  • Law Enforcement related work experience
  • Work experience that demonstrates teamwork, conflict resolution, initiative, communications skills, integrity, interpersonal skills
  • Military service
  • Police Reserve Constable experience
  • Community volunteer experience such as: Community Police Stations, Block Watch, victim services

Application Process

1.    Cover Letter and Resume

Your cover letter and resume must include your complete address with postal code, and a valid email address. It is important that the cover letter demonstrates how you meet our basic requirements and why you are applying to the Oak Bay Police Department, especially if you are living outside of our jurisdiction. All cover letters and resumes will be reviewed and one of the following decisions will be made:

    • You may be invited to write the ETHOS exam,
    • You may be invited to conduct a virtual interview,
    • You may receive a letter indicating that you are not a competitive applicant at this time.

2.    Possible ETHOS Exam – SAMPLE

3.    POPAT Test (mandatory pass result)

The POPAT or PARE is a demanding, aerobic, physical test which must be completed in under 4 minutes and 15 seconds. POPAT test results are valid for 12 months and applicants can complete the test on their own prior to applying. Before conducting the POPAT test, candidates are required to complete a waiver form acknowledging any potential health concerns. POPAT facilitators will provide a full, concise explanation of the components as they are stated in the POPAT testing protocol. Testing participants will be provided with a visual demonstration of each component. Time will be made available to allow candidates enough time to experience and practice or learn all requirements of the test. Following this practice portion, if a testing candidate feels they are not prepared to run the test, they have the opportunity to notify a POPAT facilitator and they will be officially withdrawn from the test.

4.     Integrity/Lifestyle Questionnaire and Background Investigation

This questionnaire covers all aspects of your history. It includes answering questions that may be uncomfortable. We understand that many people have had issues in their past that they are not proud of. For the most part these issues will not prevent you from becoming a police officer given the context and length of time since the event. A failure to disclose these items in most cases will prevent the candidate from proceeding in the recruitment process.

5.     Intake Review and Interview

This is an in-depth and extensive interview conducted by two recruitment officers. The interview will cover all aspects of your application and background.

6.     Polygraph Test

Polygraph testing is administered in Victoria, BC by a trained professional qualified in the use of a polygraph. This testing is paid for by Oak Bay PD.

7.     Psychological Testing

Applicants will be required to attend an identified Oak Bay Police selected psychologist office for an interview and written testing. Arrangements for a virtual meeting can be made for out-of-town candidates. This testing is paid for by Oak Bay PD.

8.      Occupational Health Assessment

Police officers in British Columbia must take a pre-employment medical exam to ensure they are fit for duty. This testing includes a medical history, a physical exam, vision and hearing tests, lab work, etc. and is paid for by the Oak Bay Police Department.

9.     Peer Interview

At Oak Bay Police we strive to build a positive team environment. Therefore, our Peer Interview is an important step in the recruitment process to ensure that you are a good fit for our department, and we are a good fit for your career goals. The Peer Interview is usually conducted by a Senior patrol member, a Constable and a civilian staff member.

10.     HR Interview

The final interview is with a Sergeant, the Deputy Chief Constable and the Chief Constable. This behavioral-based interview focuses on questions which allow candidates to showcase their communication skills, ability to problem solve, and explain why they are a competitive candidate for the Oak Bay Police team.

11.   Offer of Employment

The Chief Constable or designate makes the final decision on offers of employment. Once you are offered employment, you will be sworn in and begin preparations to attend training.