ISP looking for troopers statewide

December 21, 2011

The Idaho State Police is currently accepting applications for the position of Trooper. Previous law enforcement experience is not required and the hope is to hire approximately 15 new Troopers statewide in 2012. Currently, ISP has 23 sworn officer positions vacant throughout the state, but that number will likely grow over the next several months as some Troopers are nearing retirement. Some of the positions are being held open as an ongoing salary savings measure and will be opened up as the budget allows. The important thing now is to fill some of the vacant Trooper positions to ensure we are providing the highest level of service on Idaho highways. With this position comes a high level of responsibility, one in which candidates must "earn" the right by going through an extensive application process. The entire hiring process takes between six and seven months to complete. The process begins with a comprehensive online exam, then oral board and physical fitness testing. Applicants must then pass an extensive background check which includes reference checks, work history verification, criminal history, and credit checks. Applicants must also pass a series of psychological, medical, and physical fitness exams. A polygraph exam and substance abuse screening will be administered as well. The training process on average takes about nine months to complete. The training includes a 10-week POST academy in addition to a 13-week ISP advanced training academy. Upon successful completion of both academies, the new recruit will begin an on-the-job field training for a period of time with experienced Troopers. Academy and on-the-job training are intense and require physically and mentally strong individuals. Applicants must be willing to work anywhere in the state of Idaho. ISP attempts to accommodate the applicants' choice of location if they are hired, but the assignments are first made based on department needs. Because travel is constant in Idaho, anytime of the day or year, Troopers will be required to work all shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. Applicants must also be a high school graduate or possess a GED. They must also have two or more years of responsible work experience or two years of higher education beyond high school. Starting pay for Trooper is $17.67 per hour and possibly higher if the candidate is a current police officer with at least three years' experience as a sworn officer. Interested applicants can read more detail about this exciting opportunity and/or apply online by visiting the ISP website at: www.isp.idaho.gov. If you have questions, please contact us at (208) 884-7018. The job posting will close on January 26, 2012.