Selection Process
There is a seven stage selection process to be hired as a Communications Clerk with the Ottawa Police Service.
Download a brochure (PDF) with this information.
Stage 1 - Application:
The first step is to submit an online application for the Communications Centre.
Note: Access to the Internet and an email address is required. At no time will OPS make contact via telephone.
(Hotmail, Yahoo, Libraries, etc. have free Internet/email access for those who do not own a computer)
All resumes and applications will be reviewed and only successful applicants will move on to Stage 2 of the hiring process.
All candidates in the selection process must regularly log into "Your Profile" to check for important information regarding current and upcoming phases of the selection process.
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Stage 2 Information Session:
All successful applicants from Stage 1 will be invited to an Information Session.
Photo ID is mandatory.
Applicants will be provided a full and detailed overview of the entire hiring process, including:
- All testing
- Documentation including, Offer of Employment
- All training
- Job descriptions, pay scales, benefits package
- Questions and answers
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Stage 3 - Recruitment Day Testing
All successful applicants from Stage 2 will be invited to the Recruitment Day Testing.
Photo ID is mandatory.
- Cognitive Ability Test
- Standard WPM typing test
- Multi-Tasking Test
- This testing assesses skills and abilities in the following areas: WPM typing, data entry, call summarization, decision making, cross referencing, memory recall, character comparison, map reading
- Voice Radio Test
- Scoring based on voice clarity and quality
- Review of completed Background/Criminal forms. Revisions to be completed prior to Interview Phase.
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Stage 4 - Off Site Language Testing
French and English language ability test performed through the City of Ottawa by contracted company, Interlangues.
- Applicants are to contact Interlangues to arrange a testing appointment.
- Applicants are required to pay, in full, all costs associated with language testing.
- A pre-screen series of questions will determine second language to be tested.
French testing consists of Oral and Reading at $160.00
English testing consists of Oral expression and comprehension, Reading & Written at $200.
- Successful applicants will achieve Advanced 3 Level for all English tests (English Comprehension, Expression, Reading and Writing)
- Successful applicants will achieve:
- Advanced Level 2 Minimum for French Oral Comprehension/Expression
- Advanced Level Minimum for French Reading
View the definitions of the mandatory qualifying levels.
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Stage 5 - Interview
Photo Id is required.
Applicants will undergo a Behavioral Event Interview.
What is a Behavioural Event Interview?
The premise behind a behavioural event interview is that an individual's past behaviour is the best indicator of their future behaviour in similar circumstances. Candidates will be required to respond to questions based on life experiences.
Five Communications Clerk competencies have been identified for the position of Communications Clerk. One question will be asked per competency. Each candidate will be asked to describe a specific past experience that they were involved in that will demonstrate the particular competency.
Sample question: Can you tell us of a time when you were tasked with a project which had a strict dead line? Explain how you worked through the project. How did you manage your time? Were you successful in meeting the deadline?
Competencies
The following five (5) competencies will be rated during the job interview. A definition for each competency has been provided to assist you.
ANALYTICAL THINKING: Demonstrates the ability to identify, define and analyze problems and situations using rational and intuitive processes that result in the drawing of accurate conclusions, the generation of viable solutions and the visualization of new potential.
COMMUNICATION: Adapts communication style according to audience. Displays active listening skills and expresses oneself appropriately. Ability to gather and disseminate information accurately and efficiently.
FLEXIBILITY AND DIVERSITY: Ability to adapt to a variety of situations, individuals, groups and changing circumstances and to work effectively with diverse backgrounds, cultures and socioeconomic circumstances.
TEAM AND RELATIONSHIP BUILDING: Presents a positive image. Demonstrates personal integrity and honesty. Acknowledges when he/she has made a mistake and sees it as a learning opportunity.
PROBLEM SOLVING AND ACTION MANAGEMENT: Demonstrates logical and timely decision making skills; progress towards completion of goals. Resourceful.
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Stage 6 - Background/Criminal Checks
All successful applicants to this stage will undergo full Background history and Criminal Background checks. Applicants must have completed (in-full) and provided all relevant forms during Stage 3. Providing false information is an automatic disqualifier.
The investigation concentrates on, but is not limited to, previous employment, education, neighbourhood inquiries, friends and associates, character references, personal finances and criminal activities.
Final Selection Review
All of the information collected from the various stages of the selection process is reviewed and compared to the selection criteria. A offer of employment may be made to qualified applicants. Successful candidates will be required to undergo a probationary period, and complete all mandated training.
The successful completion of any stage of this process does not guarantee employment.
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Stage 7 - Offer of Employment
Successful applicants will be provided a written Offer of Employment that they will accept or decline.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Ottawa Police Service values a diverse work force. It is the policy of Ottawa Police Service to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants for employment meeting bona fide occupational qualifications, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, or disability.
The Ottawa Police Service readily acknowledges that a diverse population is best served by a similar diversity of police and civilian membership.
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