The Grande Prairie Police Service is looking to fill its first recruitment classes for both experienced police officers and new recruits.
According to the GPPS, the first class will be for officers who have at least 18 months of experience as a sworn police officer in Canada. The class will be held in the spring, and chosen officers will receive “a transitional allowance of up to $25,000.” The second class is planned to be held in the fall and will be the first new recruit class for the service.
According to a release from the GPPS “the rigorous application process involves a series of assessments including written, physical, psychological, and polygraph tests, along with behavioural and personal disclosure interviews and a comprehensive background investigation.”
Grande Prairie Police Service Chief of Police, Dwayne Lakusta says the service is looking for individuals who embody the service’s values, along with being compassionate and community-minded.
“Our vision is clear, our dedication to service is unwavering, and we are eager to build a team that reflects the high aspirations we hold for our community,” Lakusta says. “When fully staffed, we will be a comprehensive public safety agency boasting more than 225 personnel, including police officers, peace officers, outreach workers, social workers, nurses, and other civilian professionals.”
The starting salary for a GPPS hire is $76,854 and reportedly could increase to $113,859 after five years with the force. Officers will also be able to fill specialty roles within the force including Police Dog Services, tactical team, serious crimes, community engagement, and school resources.
To date along with Chief Lakusta has hired the GPPS’s executive and support team, which is made up of nine individuals. These include Executive Director and Administrative Operations Darrin Balanik, along with Staff Sargent of Training and Recruitment Mike Lefebvre.
