Frequently Asked Questions
REQUIREMENTS
You need to:
● Have a high school diploma from a U.S. high school or a GED.
● Be a U.S. Citizen.
● Have no felony convictions.
Residency restrictions apply for some specialized positions.
Application and Testing
Step 1 : Submit Application
Step 2: Written Test
Step 3 : Background Investigation
Step 4: Oral Board Interview
Step 5: Ride Along
Step 6: CVSA
Step 7: Chief’s Interview
Step 8: Psychological Exam
Step 9: Drug Screen and Physical
The National Police Officer Selection Test (POST) is an entry level basic skills test measuring basic Arithmetic, Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Incident Report Writing Skills.
Any felony convictions as a juvenile or as an adult, and any domestic violence related convictions.
Recent use of specific illicit drugs, or any serious criminal offenses can be concerns, but won't automatically disqualify you. Applicants are expected to be 100% honest in these areas. All offenses will be evaluated by the Hiring Captain.
To prepare for the hiring process, you should:
Review the job description and ensure you meet the requirements.
Practice for the Flex test to be in good physical condition.
Gather all necessary documents (e.g., high school diploma, identification, etc.).
Be ready to complete the background investigation, which includes providing accurate information about your past.
Come prepared to demonstrate your enthusiasm and dedication during interviews or assessments and dress for success.
Benefits/Salary/
Retirement
Starting pay ranges between $27.72 to $28.58 per hour ($56,618.00 - $59,446.00 annually). This pay does not include incentives. Pay scales for ranks above patrol officer are higher depending on the rank achieved.
Health insurance
Life insurance
Sick leave
Holiday pay
Shift differential
Uniform allowance
Dry cleaning allowance
External vest carriers
4/10 hour shifts (work four 10-hour days each week)
Beard policy
Tattoo policy
Uniform allowance and equipment provided
External vest carriers and class B uniforms
Workout on duty: SPD supports fitness and wellness by allowing officers to work out during duty hours to maintain their physical health.
We offer a comprehensive medical benefits package to support your health and well-being.
The City of Salina offers health benefits, including medical and vision coverage. The City pays a portion of the employee’s premium contribution.
SPD provides a strong retirement plan to help ensure your financial future. Officers are enrolled in the Kansas Police & Fire (KP&F), which offers pension benefits based on years of service and salary. Officers are vested after 15 years of service, guaranteeing them retirement benefits.
As a KP&F retiree, you will receive a monthly benefit for the rest of your life.
Academy
Our police academy is housed at the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) in Yoder, KS— a premier facility that delivers comprehensive, state-certified training for law enforcement officers across Kansas.
Police officer training at Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center (KLETC) is intense and hands-on, combining classroom learning with practical exercises. Recruits live on campus during the academy, immersing themselves in essential topics such as law, criminal procedure, physical fitness, and defensive tactics.
The academy is 14 weeks long.
SPD covers the cost of your training, including tuition, lodging, and uniforms. You won’t need to pay out-of-pocket for the training at KLETC.
Yes, all recruits are required to attend the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center unless they have already completed a similar program that meets Kansas standards.
Yes, you will be a full-time employee of the City of Salina during your time at the academy, which means you’ll be paid while you attend, and you’ll also accrue benefits like vacation and sick time.
Yes, you will participate in a 14 week field training program after graduating from the academy.
Lateral Transfers
The State of Kansas offers a Conditional Reciprocity Certification Program. If you meet the necessary requirements, you could transfer from another state’s law enforcement agency to SPD. To be eligible for this program, applicants must:
● Be employed by a recognized Kansas law enforcement agency.
● Have not been out of law enforcement for more than five years at the time of the
application.
● Have completed basic training that meets or exceeds Kansas requirements.
● Applicants must provide documentation showing that their basic training is equivalent to Kansas standards.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
We offer several specialized assignments, including SWAT, K-9, Criminal Investigations, Drug Task Force, Crisis Negotiations Team, Drone Pilot, Field Training Officer, Bike Patrol, Traffic Officer, School Resource Officer, and more. After gaining experience on the job, you may have the opportunity to apply for these roles.
After completion of 12-month probationary period, officers are eligible to apply for specialized assignments. Examples include: SWAT, Canine Handler, Detective, Traffic Officer, etc. It depends on your experience, performance, and the position, but generally officers can apply for specialized assignments after spending a few years on patrol and gaining expertise. As little as one year off of probation to start qualifying for some specialized assignments.
INCENTIVES
The SPD offers:
Night shift differential pay ($1.50/hour)
Longevity pay after five years
Twelve (12) paid holidays per year plus one (1) paid personal day
2 hour minimum call back pay
We encourage continuous learning and professional development. SPD offers education incentives to help you pursue higher education, certifications, and specialized training. You may be eligible for financial incentives or reimbursement for approved coursework.
We offer additional financial incentive to employees possessing Associates, Bachelors, and Masters degrees in degrees relevant to the employee’s job.
Class B, tactical pants and polo, and exterior vest carrier.
Yes, we prioritize officer health and wellness. We offer a wellness program designed to support physical and mental health, with access to fitness facilities and wellness resources.
Yes. We allow visible tattoos that are not excessive or offensive. We also do not allow visible tattoos on the face, neck or head.
Yes, we allow beards as long as they are neat and trimmed.