Harrisburg, Pa. — A new internship program aimed at recruiting new officers for the Capitol Police Department will take care of training, certification, and many associated costs, according to the department.
The program is designed to provide support to candidates willing to serve and to protect the safety of employees and visitors to the Capitol complex.
“The nationwide shortage of police officers has reached near crisis levels for many departments, creating overwhelming demand for a pipeline that is currently very limited in supply,” said Pennsylvania Capitol Police Superintendent Joe Jacob. .
“Pennsylvania Capitol Police have not been immune to the effects of this shortage. About 50% of our current workforce will be eligible for retirement within the next four years,” Jacob said, indicating that it’s now about developing new ways to attract and retain candidates.
The PA Capitol Police Trainee Program is designed to allow successful candidates to attend the Act 120 certification academy full-time for six months, complete their field officer training, and then be a full-time PA Capitol Police officer.
This is the first time the PA Capitol Police has been able to sponsor a program that covers the cost of Law 120 certification, equipment, and other associated costs as part of the certification process. hiring an officer, according to the department.
“Our hope is that by covering these costs, we can attract quality candidates who may have been interested in a career in law enforcement but may not have been able to cover the associated costs. to fulfilling that desire,” Jacob said.
Applicants will need to be 21 years of age after passing their ACT 120 certification, hold a valid driver’s license, be US citizens, and be able to pass the physical exam and performance requirements.
According to a press release, “The PA Capitol Police is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. All diversity applicants are encouraged to apply.”
The AP Capitol Police offers a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as paid vacation and sick leave. The starting salary for the internship program is $42,750. Once the candidate completes Act 120 certification and field training for a PA Capitol Trainee Police Officer, they will be promoted to PA Capitol Police Officer and their salary will increase to $47,653 .
Currently, more than 110 officers are employed by the accredited law enforcement agency. Officers have full powers of arrest and are investigating all crimes reported within their jurisdiction on state-owned property and buildings in Harrisburg and Scranton.
The force maintains a 24/7 presence in Harrisburg, where it is responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of those working in and visiting the Capitol complex.
