A career that is truly out of the ordinary
Forget ordinary! Try to think of a career where one year you are working with community members developing an after-school program for local youth, the next you are tackling issues that threaten national security and then maybe a few years later, you are living and working overseas as a liaison for your organization.
Sound possible? The Royal Canadian Mounted Police can offer just that and so much more.
With over 150 different types of operational and administrative opportunities available, the RCMP offers many possibilities to ensure a career filled with growth, learning and challenge.
And there's never been a better time to apply. In each of the next few years, the RCMP will train close to 1,700 new police officers, more than double those trained in recent years.
"We are spreading the word about how great this career is," says Constable Dan Roy, a recruiter for the province. "For those people with the right attributes, character and commitment, the door has never been more open.
"We want physically fit candidates, who are of good character and who want to make a difference in their community."
Responsible for enforcing the law and investigating crimes, RCMP officers are role models and leaders who provide advice and guidance to people from all walks of life. RCMP officers also play an important role in ensuring the safety and security of those in the communities they serve.
Those interested in joining the RCMP should be responsible, respectful, professional, compassionate, honest and have integrity.
An applicant must also be a Canadian citizen, 19 years of age (though you can begin the application process at 18), fluent in either French or English and have a minimum of a high school education or equivalent.
They must also be willing to relocate anywhere in Canada. "Many people think they must be able to speak both English and French or that they must have a university education to join the RCMP, and that is simply not true," explains Dan.
"Some also think that they need to be a member of a visible minority to apply. This is another myth. The RCMP recruits men and women from all backgrounds to better reflect the communities it serves."
After graduating from the cadet training program, newly hired members start at $44,513, a salary that increases to $72,125 within three years. They also enjoy three weeks holidays and generous medical and dental coverage, among many other benefits.
"New constables begin their careers doing general duty policing, which allows them to experience a broad range of assignments and experiences, such as traffic enforcement, calls for assistance from the public, major crime investigations and testifying in court," explains Dan.
"This ensures that members have the skills to succeed in whatever area of policing they may want to specialize in."
The application process to become a member of the RCMP can take anywhere from eight to 12 months. It includes written tests, a fitness assessment, medical exam, detailed interview, pre-employment polygraph examination and background investigation.
While the process is designed to ensure the best candidates are selected, RCMP recruiting officers work with applicants to ensure the best chance of success.
Once accepted, a candidate will attend a rigorous 24-week training program at the RCMP Training Academy, commonly called Depot, in Regina, Saskatchewan. The RCMP covers travel to Depot, as well as the costs of training, including room and board.
"Attend a career presentation and learn about the possibilities," urges Dan. "You can also ask any questions you may have about the application process. People who have thought about policing at some point, or who are even just curious about the work, owe it to themselves to invest the 90 minutes to learn more. It truly is a great career."
To find out more about joining the RCMP, the application process and times and locations of career presentations, visit www.rcmp.ca or contact your local Recruiting Office.
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