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Frequently Asked Questions

Some frequently asked questions about our department and recruitment process. As a service organization, the City of Spartanburg offers highly rewarding career opportunities for people who enjoy serving others and who are seeking to make a positive impact on their community. 

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Submit an on-line application for Police Officer career opportunities to: sjager@cityofspartanburg.org.

You may pick up an application packet in person at:

Spartanburg Police Records Department - 206 N Forest St, Spartanburg, SC 29301 - See Map

How Long is the Hiring Process?

Our Police Officer hiring process typically takes a minimum of 2 - 3 months. This timeline may be accelerated if the applicant submits their application and background materials promptly and accurately. 

 

After an applicant passes our Civil Service Exam, an in-depth background investigation will be completed within approximately 3 - 4 weeks.  A conditional job offer will be given after the background investigation, and a Psychological, Physical Exam and Interview with command staff will be conducted prior to a final offer from the Chief of Police. 

Considerations for Employment

  • You must currently or within six (6) months of employment live within a 65 mile radius of the Spartanburg Police Department. The commute must take one (1) hour or less.

  • Be able to read and write the English language. 

  • You must obtain a South Carolina driver's license to proceed with the employment process.

  • Applicants employed with another law enforcement agency or detention facility must have at least two (2) years of continuous service with that agency.

  • A copy of your DD214 is required, if you were in the military, indicating Honorable Discharge. 

Do I have to pay to attend the Police Academy?

No. Upon hire, we will train you in-house for four (4) weeks. You will then be sponsored at the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy by the Spartanburg PD.

The Basic Law Enforcement training program is currently twelve (12) weeks in duration. A candidate must complete training within the first twelve months of employment.

Certified or Uncertified Officer, what is the difference?

A Non-Certified Police Officer is someone who has no prior police academy training and has not passed the state exam. 

A Certified Police Officer is a person who is a sworn, full-time employee at a police agency.

 

If you are currently a full-time employee at an agency, you need to stay with your agency for two (2) full years before you are eligible for hire with the Spartanburg Police Department. You are then likely to qualify as a certified applicant.

What are Automatic Disqualifies?

Applicants who have a history of unethical or immoral behavior will not be hired!

 

You must be a United States citizen, hold a valid drivers license and be eligible for certification by the South Carolina Training & Standards Commission.

 

You must respect the rights of all people and have an appreciation for the diversity that characterizes the City of Spartanburg. 

Contact us to discuss any drug and/or criminal history prior to applying. 

What is the Civil Service Exam?

All applicants, including currently certified police officers in the State of South Carolina, must successfully complete the following Civil Service Exam.

 

The Civil Service Exam includes:

  • Written Test & Essay

  • Physical Agility Test &

  • Oral Interview  

You must have proper picture ID as verified by OPSI to be admitted to the testing site(s). 

Applicants must pass all three (3) tests to move forward in the pre-employment hiring process. Test results are valid for twelve (12) months. 

What's your Drug & Tattoo Policy?

No illegal drug use in the past two (2) years and/or experimenting with three (3) or more drugs, including, but not limited to:

Depressants, Stimulants, Inhalants, Cocaine & Cannabis

 

Visible tattoos are permitted, unless deemed inappropriate upon review.  Visible tattoos on the head, neck, or hands (besides a wedding band tattoo) are prohibited. 

How quickly can I advance?

Every new member of the Spartanburg Police Department must successfully complete a twelve (12) months introductory period. 

Entering as an Uncertified Police Officer or Out of State Certified Officer, you can advance to Police Officer First Class with twelve (12) months of continuous service. 

 

Specialized positions typically require 1 - 3 years of experience as a non-probationary officer.

Can't find an answer to your question?
Use the contact form below.
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