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Police Department | Career Paths

Career Paths
After completing the 21-week academy which is held in Topeka, new officers begin their careers in the Field Operations Bureau as patrol officers. After an 18-month probationary period an officer can bid the shift they wish to work based on seniority. After receiving street experience, officers can also develop specialized skills in many areas. Some of these areas include:
  • Academy Instructor
  • Accident Reconstruction
  • Response Team
  • Bicycle Unit
  • Community Officer
  • Crisis Negotiator
  • School Resource Officer
  • K-9 Officer
  • Motorcycle Unit
  • Helicopter Unit
  • Special Investigations Unit
Promotions are available to officers after three years of service. A written examination and an oral interview are required before being placed on a promotional list. The Corporal rank is a patrol position on a patrol shift. The Detectives rank job assignments
include but are not limited to the following:
  • Auto Theft
  • Burglary/Theft
  • Criminal Intelligence
  • Financial Crimes
  • Homicide/Robbery
  • Special Victims
After two years in grade, the Corporal or Detective is eligible to promote to the rank of Sergeant. A written examination and an oral interview are required before being placed on a promotion list. After two years in grade, Sergeants are eligible to promote to Lieutenant. A written examination and an oral interview are required before being placed on a promotion list. The Chief of Police appoints ranks above Lieutenant.


This web site and its contents are maintained by the City of Topeka, KS., I.T. Department. Unauthorized use is prohibited by law. Contact the I.T. Department with questions or suggestions. All material contained on this web site is © 2009.


Last Updated: Friday July 31 2009