Testing & Hiring Process
Step 1: Fill out the online application for employment with City Human Resources.
Step 2: Qualified candidates will be invited to test. After you fill out your application, you will receive further information about testing dates. Candidates who participate in the testing process should plan to spend a full day in Rapid City, unless otherwise noted by the Training Administrator.
Step 3: Tests will include:
Written Test. This computer-based exam is timed, and consists of both multiple-choice and observational questions. Candidates must pass the written test to move on to the physical fitness test. Study for the written test here.
Physical fitness test. Exercises include push-ups, sit-ups, and a 1.5-mile run. Candidates should bring proper athletic attire for this test. (The physical fitness test will take place immediately after the written test. It is acceptable for candidates to come to the written test already wearing their athletic attire. Those that choose to bring their athletic attire will have a place to change after taking the written test, if they prefer.) Candidates must pass both the written and physical fitness test to move on to the oral interview.
Oral interview. Candidates will be questioned individually by the Interview Board. After all of the interviews are complete, the Interview Board will determine the top candidates, who will move on to the next phase in the hiring process.
We will stay in touch with you through all steps of the hiring process, and we work hard to make it as expedited as possible.
The Rapid City Police Department serves the nearly 80,000 citizens of Rapid City, the citizens of nearby suburban areas, and the estimated 2 million tourists that visit our community and the Black Hills region every year. We are continually working to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the people we serve.
We offer a variety of services, and are especially proud of our proactive programs to keep our community safe, such as the School Liaison Program and our civilian traffic investigators. We also see ourselves as a leader in quality training throughout the region, with outstanding recruit training and Field Officer Training programs to cultivate committed, courteous officers for our department.
Mission Statement
Community First, Service Above Self, Integrity-Driven. One Interaction at a time.
Vision Statement
Striving for a safe and crime-free Rapid City.
Purpose
Provides law enforcement patrol and investigative services.
