There are SIX steps to the hiring process:

Written and Physical Agility Exams (PAT)

All entry-level applicants must complete the hiring process by applying to take the written and PAT exams with Public Safety Testing via their website Public Safety Testing You must complete BOTH the written and PAT exam to continue in the hiring process. Failure to pass or complete the written or PAT exams will eliminate you from the process.   For testing calendar click here.

Oral Board

Applicants who successfully complete both the written exam and PAT exam will be invited to participate in an oral board panel interview as vacancies arise. The panel consists of several officers, a supervisor and a members of the Tukwila community.

The purpose of the oral board panel interview is to determine if you are a good fit both for the department and for the Tukwila community. The structured interview typically lasts 20-30 minutes.

Dress for the interview in formal business attire, practice speaking beforehand and be sure to rest and come to the interview prepared. Do not bring resumes, cover letters, certifications or any material unless specifically requested to do so as part of the invite instructions.

Background Investigation

Those who successfully complete the oral board phase of the hiring process will be placed on the Civil Service Eligibility list. As vacancies become available, those on the list may be invited to continue in the hiring process.

The background examination starts will filling out a Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) online. A link to it will be provided by an assigned background investigator. Once you complete the oral board, having names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and other contact information for references, previous employers, family and others will help speed up the process by allowing you to immediately fill out the PHQ without upon receiving it.

Upon completion of the PHQ and its review by the background investigator, you will meet with the background investigator to go over it and clarify any discrepancies or potential issues.

The background investigator will then begin the investigation. The investigation includes speaking with any current for former spouses, family, friends, neighbors, current and former employer(s), financial and credit checks, driving history, social media review and reviewing any other information and sources available.

As part of the background process, you will complete a polygraph examination done by a certified polygraph examiner.

Upon completing the background investigation, the findings will be delivered to the Chief of Police for review who will make the determination as to whether or not to proceed in the hiring process.

Psychological Examination

The Psychological Examination is conducted by a department contracted licensed psychologist. It consists of a written examination followed by an interview with the psychologist.

Medical Evaluation

The Medical Evaluation is thorough and it is essential that you be in excellent health with no conditions which would restrict your ability to safely perform the essential functions of that of a Police Officer. Good physical condition is necessary, as training in the Academy is rigorous as are the day to day functions of the job.

Chief’s Interview

The Chief’s Interview is the final step of the hiring process. The Chief meets with you one on one to go over your entire hiring process packet and clarify any questions he or she may have based on the findings of the hiring process. The final hiring decision is ultimately up to the Chief of Police.

As with the Oral Board Panel, dress with formal business attire, practice speaking beforehand, be professional and be prepared to answer questions.