Over the last 12 months, the Hillsboro Police Department's Office of Professional Standards has taken steps to increase accessibility and reduce potential barriers for candidates, as well as improve workflows and technology to expedite background investigations. The goal is to hire the most qualified applicants who share the Department's commitment to its mission and core values, and who have a passion for public service.

Previously, Hillsboro Police only accepted applications for Entry-Level Police Officer a few times a year. Now, it has moved to application periods opening approximately every six weeks. This gives interested applicants more opportunities to apply throughout the year and helps the Department remain proactive in filling current and future vacancies. Internally, this allows time to screen applications and schedule necessary appointments. 

The Department has also launched an effort to help applicants prepare for the hiring process by introducing workshops and hosting sessions for them to practice taking the Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT). These opportunities allow applicants to also interact with staff and potentially obtain a qualifying ORPAT score, thereby reducing the need for an additional appointment in the hiring process.

For years, Hillsboro Police has partnered with the National Testing Network (NTN), and that long-standing partnership remains in place. However, the Department has now expanded its testing opportunities through a partnership with Public Safety Testing (PST). Applicants can use either test provider and do not need to take both tests. This expands the applicant pool to neighboring states, like Washington and Idaho. The new partnership also reduces the need for applicants to take two different tests. Scores will be accepted continuously. Applicants are still required to complete an application for employment after submitting their test scores.

Another significant change is the ability for candidates with a bachelor’s degree to bypass the written test requirement. The Department understands that those with four-year degrees have invested a lot in their education and have achieved a significant milestone by earning an undergraduate degree. Candidates with an undergraduate degree who wish to bypass the written test requirement are required to show proof of their degree by submitting a copy of their transcripts with their employment application.

If you’re interested in becoming a police officer with Hillsboro Police (new or as a lateral), contact a recruiter at JoinHPD@Hillsboro-Oregon.gov, call 503-681-5HPD, or attend a free, interactive Hiring Workshop on Thursday, September 11 at 5 pm at the Hillsboro Police Department (250 SE 10^th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97123).

Learn more about a career with Hillsboro Police, as a police officer or serving in another capacity, at Hillsboro-Oregon.gov/JoinHPD.