"How to become an Atlantic City Police officer"

The Atlantic City Police Department actively seeks men and women who may be interested in a career in law enforcement. Testing for the position of "Police Officer" is governed by the New Jersey State Division Of Personnel. Applications for testing are normally released in December of each year. The application periods normally last until February of the new calendar year, and testing is normally held in late spring. Women and Minorities are encouraged to apply.

A new demonstration project known as the position of "Police Aide" is also offered as an alternate route into the police department, for those who may not know if the career field is for them. Police Aide is not a sworn position, however the Aides will gain varied police experience through assignments within the department.

"Some thoughts from the Chief Of Police"

My name is Art Snellbaker and after 32 years of police service I received the honor of being named the Chief of the Atlantic City Police Division, this past May of 2000. It has been an exciting and rewarding career for me and I urge you to consider such a career path yourselves. Whatever your individual interests may be, there are opportunities in the Atlantic City Police Department. Criminal Investigations challenge you to think and plan out the course of an investigation, which can comprise of crimes against property, crimes against persons, or narcotics enforcement and economic crimes. A scientific interest can be pursued in our Forensics investigations unit. Accident investigations offer an opportunity to reconstruct accident scenes and challenge ones ability to gather information and reach informed conclusions.

Patrol operations make every tour of duty a little different, with multiple ways of serving your community. A variety of patrol methods are employed by our department such as "Foot patrols", "Bicycle Patrols", "Motorcycle Patrols", "Automobile" and "Police Patrol Dog Handler" otherwise known as "K-9 patrol". Salaries and benefits are competitive with the private sector, and promotional opportunities abound.

The bright and talented young men and women who make up the Police Division insure the phrase "To Protect and Serve" is more than just a slogan on the door of a car. File an application with the New Jersey Department of Personnel, and join the best law enforcement agency anywhere, "The Atlantic City Police Division."

"What are the requirements needed to join the Atlantic City Police Department" ?

Established Atlantic City residency is a must! Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 35 years of age, possess a high school diploma or High School equivalent certificate. Applicants must pass rigorous personal background checks, medical and psychological screening, and must successfully complete a training program mandated by the New Jersey Police Training Commission" after appointment to the department.

"How competitive are the salary and benefits"?

Persons appointed to the Atlantic City Police department in the year 2002 will earn the amount of ($36,806) dollars as a base salary as a first step officer. Persons who possess college experience can earn extra money in their base salary. An Associate Degree will earn 6%, a Bachelors degree 9%, and a Masters degree 10%.

Ex.; A step one officer in the year 2000 may earn

up to ($40,486) starting base salary.

Additionally, officers will receive 14 holidays computed at the rate of time and a half, Sick leave of 120 hours or 15 days, and up to 12 paid vacation days the first year. Medical benefits which include several medical plans available to the employee, as well as dental, eyeglass, and prescription plans. The "Police and Fire Pension System" is one of the most stable and highly regarded in the United States. Officers who complete 25 years of service are eligible for payment.

"Who do I call for more information"?

Inquiries can be made to the Atlantic City Police Department’s Office Of Public Information at 609-347-6472, Or contact the Police Personnel Office at 609-347-6426 or contact the NJ Department of Personnel .

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