Overview of the Training and Recruitment Unit

The Training and Recruitment Unit falls under the direction of the Professional Standards Division. The unit is staffed by Sergeant John Worden and Officer Mike Hestir.

Recruiting and Hiring

Our unit assists with recruiting, screening and hiring of personnel, including police officers, full and part-time civilian staff and interns. We work with the City of Columbia Human Resources Department in all aspects of the hiring process including application, background investigations and pre and post-employment offer testing.

FAQs concerning Recruiting and Hiring

Do I have to have completed a degree to be eligible to apply?

No, the department requirement is 60 hours from an accredited institution. The hours do not have to be in Criminal Justice or other law enforcement related field of study.

Is there a waiver of the education requirement for military experience or training?

Currently there is no waiver of the 60 credit hour requirement for any reason, including but not limited to previous military or law enforcement training or experience.

Do I need to be certified through Missouri POST prior to applying for the Columbia Police Department?

No, although we do prefer pre-certification, it is not required. We do on occasion send officers to a state certified academy for POST certification

Where do I send my application when applying for a position?

Unless otherwise directed by a member of the Training and Recruitment Unit, all completed materials should be sent to The City of Columbia’s Human Resources Department. The address is located at the top of the application. Please ensure all information is complete and required documentation is provided prior to submission. Failure to adhere to this policy may cause the application to be screened.

Does the Columbia Police Department participate in a lateral entry program?

Yes, however this program is monetary compensation only. Additional salary may be approved by the Chief of Police for previous law enforcement years of experience. There is no transfer of time in position for retirement considerations and no transfer of rank.

Training and Development

Our unit also develops, organizes and conducts training to ensure that Columbia Police Officers remain some of the most highly trained officers in the nation. The Training and Recruitment Unit supervises all department instructors and ensures that all department in-service training adheres to Missouri POST standards. The unit also supervises the Field Training program which is responsible for recruit officer training. We also serve as the repository for training lessons and records.

FAQs concerning Training and Development

Will the Columbia Police Department provide Training?

Yes, the Columbia Police Department provides all training for personnel.

Where will I go for Training?

The Columbia Police Department sends personnel to academies and seminars throughout the United States. Our officers have attended training in many locations including, Missouri, Illinois, Alabama, Texas, Virginia and Florida. Our personnel have attended nationally and world renowned academies and training facilities.

What type of Training will I attend?

Columbia Police Department personnel attend a wide variety of training. Our personnel have attended training with topics ranging from basic law enforcement tactics to advance homicide and blood spatter. We have officers trained in a variety of forensic science specialties, defensive tactics, a multitude of different firearms and Driving while intoxicated detection and enforcement as well as many other areas.

Do I Need to Provide my Own Equipment?

The department will provide all equipment for training except practice ammunition for those officers that chose to carry something other than a 9mm weapon.

If you have any additional questions please contact:

Sergeant John Worden by email at pdu@gocolumbiamo.com or by phone at 573-874-7422.