NDHP Hiring Process for Troopers
Phase 1 – Application
Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume and an unofficial college transcript through the ND PeopleSoft System at https://www.nd.gov/omb/public/careers/career-openings
Phase 2 – Written Tests
Applicants determined to meet with the minimum qualifications will be contacted by email to take the Wonderlic Personnel Test and the online National Police Officer Selection Test (NPOST).
Applicants must achieve at least 70 percent in each section of POST to continue. Applicants must achieve a minimum score of 21 on the Wonderlic Personnel Test to continue.
Phase 3 – Oral Interview
Applicants who pass the written test will participate in a 30-minute oral interview at NDHP Headquarters in Bismarck, ND. Out of state applicants may have the option of interviewing via Microsoft Teams.
Applicants must receive a favorable recommendation from the oral interview board to continue. The purpose of the interview is to determine if the candidate possesses the qualifications and appropriate temperament and attitude. Applicants must communicate effectively, speaking with confidence in a clear, concise manner. Another fraction of the candidate’s score is based on personal appearance.
At the end of the interview, applicants may ask questions or add details to help the panel determine the applicant’s interview score.
Phase 4 – Background Information
Applicants who pass Phase 3 will be given the California Psychological Inventory (CPI). The department psychologist will review the results for those who are granted a conditional offer of employment in Phase 5.
A thorough background investigation is conducted. Family, friends, neighbors, present and former employers, fellow employees, school officials, firms with which you have done business, courts, local law enforcement agencies, etc., will be contacted. Applicants must demonstrate an appropriate background that would not call into question their ability to fulfill the functions of a law enforcement officer.
The following will disqualify an applicant:
- Felony convictions
- Domestic violence convictions
- Any Class A misdemeanor conviction within the last 5 years
- Any Class B misdemeanor conviction within the last 3 years
The following could disqualify an applicant:
- Pled or found guilty of a felony or charged with a felony later dismissed under a deferred imposition or sentence
- Use of drugs or conviction for drug-related violations
- Intemperate use of alcohol
- Anti-social behavior
- Poor work record
- Poor driving record (numerous crashes or convictions for moving traffic violations)
- Unfavorable credit rating
The applicant’s background will be considered in terms of honesty, integrity, moral character, emotional stability, reputation in the community, and the applicant’s interest in serving people. The total application, including completed background information, is reviewed by a screening committee who makes a final determination.
Phase 5 – Physical Examination, Interview with Psychologist, and Physical Agility Testing
Letters offering conditional employment will be sent before:
- Physical examination and drug screening
- MMPI-2-RF test
- Interview with a psychologist contracted by the NDHP
- Perform job-related physical skill tests
The MMPI-2-RF (Minnesota Multi-Phasic Inventory) will be administered to appraise an individual’s interests, attitude, and other characteristics.
All medical and psychological test expenses are paid by the NDHP. Applicants are responsible for travel, lodging, and meal expenses.
A comprehensive test to determine physical conditioning is necessary to assess an applicant’s potential physical ability to perform the essential duties and responsibilities of a trooper, as well as the ability to successfully complete the physical fitness training program in the academy. The physical assessment the recruits will take is NDHP critical tasks assessment.
Final Phase – Hiring
Applicants passing all portions of the employment process will be placed on the eligibility roster in the order of their standing.