Police Officer application process

Individuals interested in applying for the position of Probationary Police Officer are required to:

• Submit a $40 non-refundable application fee
• Be at least 21 years of age at the time they apply and must not have passed their 35^th birthday as of the closing date for accepting applications
• Be a U.S. citizen who speaks and understands the English language
• Possess sixty (60) semester hours at the college level with a minimum average grade of “C” or better by application deadline
• Possess a valid Illinois Driver’s license
• Successfully complete the POWER test within one year prior to the date of the application deadline.

The application process for potential candidates is a rigorous process which requires the submission of an application and the appropriate fee; submission of college transcripts, proof of a valid Illinois Driver’s License; proof of valid Police Officer Wellness Report (POWER); a written test, and a preliminary character assessment.  Candidates who successfully pass these requirements will be invited to an oral interview with the Fire and Police Commission.  Following the oral interviews, the final Promotional Eligibility list is posted showing each candidates scores.  Candidates are hired in the order of their ranking on the list. 

A mandatory written exam will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023. Testing will take place at Oak Park River Forest High School (cafeteria) located at 201 Scoville Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. Additional details will be provided to eligible candidates approximately one week prior to the exam.

Salary: $78,650.74

Competitive benefits package includes: Two weeks paid vacation; Health, dental and vision insurance plans; Paid sick leave accrual; $50,000 Village-paid term life insurance; 13 paid holidays; Education pay; Defined-benefit pension plan.

The mission of the Oak Park Police Department is to provide high-quality law enforcement services that are accessible to all members of the community. Oak Park Police officers believe in the dignity of all people and respect individual and constitutional rights. The Department follows a community based policing philosophy that relies on citizen involvement, problem solving, ethical behavior, leadership and the value of employees. This philosophy and its values guide interactions both within the Police Department and the community. Oak Park Police Officers work to promote quality of life by maintaining and improving peace, order and safety through excellence in law enforcement and community service.

Village population: 54,500

Sworn Police Officers: 118

Find more information about the Oak Park Police Department at www.oak-park.us/police.