1. FRONTLINE NATIONAL EXAMINATION: (qualifying) includes multiple-choice video simulations and computer administered test in which candidates must complete the following three test components: a video-based human relations test, report writing, and reading comprehension. The examination is administered by the National Testing Network. PLEASE DO NOT TAKE THE FRONTLINE EXAM UNTIL YOU RECEIVE AN E-MAIL STATING THAT YOU MEET THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS. Candidates need a score of 60% or higher on the Video Section, and an overall score of 70% or higher to pass this examination.
The City of Santa Ana is now accepting PELLETB scores from other agencies. The PELLETB exam must have been completed within 6 months of application date in order for scores to be used in lieu of the Frontline National Examination. The minimal acceptable score is 46.
The next three selection components (Physical Agility Exam, Oral Interview Examination and Background Orientation) are all consolidated in one full day of testing.
2. PHYSICAL AGILITY EXAM: (qualifying) will evaluate each applicant's physical strength, agility and endurance in the following timed components:
- 1.5 MILE RUN The 1.5 mile run must be completed within 14 minutes to pass the City of Santa Ana physical agility test.
- 500 YARD RUN Run 500 yards
- SOLID FENCE CLIMB Run 5 yards to a 6-foot solid fence, climb over fence, and continue running another 25 yards
- CHAIN LINK FENCE Run 5 yards to a 6-foot chain link fence, climb over fence, and continue running another 25 yards
- OBSTACLE COURSE/AGILITY RUN Run a 99-yard obstacle course consisting of several sharp turns, a number of curb-height obstacles, and a 34-inch high obstacle
- BODY DRAG Lift and drag 165 pound lifelike dummy 32 feet
Each of the above 5 events are timed. Candidate's performance times are converted to points and summed. Candidates must successfully complete the 1.5 mile run AND accumulate a minimum total score of 384 points in the remaining five events to pass the physical agility test.
Tentative 2024 PAT Dates: 01/13/24, 01/16/24, 2/10/24 2/13/24, 03/09/24, 03/12/24, 04/13/24, 04/16/24, 05/11/24, 05/14/24, 06/08/24, 06/11/24, 07/13/24, 07/16/24, 08/10/24, 08/13/24, 09/14/24, 09/17/24, 10/12/24, 10/15/24, 11/09/24, 11/12/24, 12/14/24, 12/17/24, 12/17/24
3. ORAL INTERVIEW: (weight of 50%) will evaluate experience, training and personal qualifications for the position. Candidates need a score of 70% or higher to pass this examination.
4. BACKGROUND ORIENTATION: (qualifying) prepare personal statement, receive background packet, meet with background investigator.
5. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: (qualifying) candidates will be investigated regarding employment, neighborhood conduct, references, financial stability, criminal history, driving history, educational history, and other related factors.
6. BACKGROUND ORAL INTERVIEW EXAMINATION: (weight of 50%) will evaluate each candidate's background, experience, training and personal qualifications for the position. Candidates need a score of 70% or higher to pass this examination.
7. POLICE CHIEF'S BACKGROUND FILE REVIEW AND ORAL INTERVIEW: (qualifying) contents of the background file and results of the background investigation will also be evaluated by the Police Chief.
8. POLYGRAPH EXAMINATION: (qualifying) candidates will take a polygraph examination designed to determine the truthfulness of the candidate's responses about his/her qualifications and suitability as a Police Officer.
9. PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATION: (qualifying) candidates will be interviewed by a licensed psychologist to assess the candidate's behavior and character to determine if an individual is at significant risk for employment problems as a Peace Officer.
NOTE: Prior to appointment, a medical examination will also be conducted.
Applicants must pass every component of the selection process in order to be further considered. Those who are successful in steps 1 - 9 above will be placed on an eligible list and will be considered for appointment as vacancies occur.
The City of Santa Ana is an equal opportunity employer. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact us regarding providing reasonable accommodation.