CHP

[Bird5166]

Hello,
I'm trying to make the jump from a SO to the CHP. I've heard that there is a big push to get people in. Anyone heard how many thier looking to pick up? Any advice before the interview and background? Thank all

[BSP]

Bird,

The CHP is looking at hiring about 350 new officers every year for the next three or so years. One Reason; The CHP just re-vamped their retirement system. Assuming you qualify for retirement you stand to collect 90% of your highest years' salary during retirement. Include medical benefits and the CHP has the best retirement in the state. Given that, the ones that qualify are now getting out.

The CHP is very serious about hiring and getting people in (class sizes are looking to increase from 80 a cycle to 140 a cycle) with a new class starting every 13 weeks; however, their high standards remain the same. Don't be surprised if you originally test with 400 people and by backgrounds you're sitting in a room with 50 or less.

I would recommend that you visit their website through here and contact a recruiter for any additional questions you might have. Also, seminars are conducted at different offices around the state, so that might be an option for you.

[DesertRat]

I don't have any details but the last time I talked to a friend of mine on CHP, (he works the I-15 stretch on the other side of the State Line from where I worked it) he commented that they cannot get enough quality applicants to fill their anticipated openings. They are having a big round of retirments coming up over the next few years that is greatly reducing ranks. It sounded like this was a good time to join them but I believe they are still very competative. I would throw in my usual tail light chaser jokes at this point but since I'm transfering to traffic in a little bit, I'm going to have to knock that off.

I see BSP was typing the same time I was. Obviously he does have details.

[This message has been edited by DesertRat (edited 04-28-2000).]

[Ken]

Hello
I have been offered a conditonal commitment to hire by the CHP.
I was picked up during their expedited testing for Military. (I am a US Marine currently).
Anyway. The written test isn't to hard, however you have to right an essay on some different topics. For example my essay was on a conflict in my life and how I resolved it.
The physical test was not at all difficult. I tested also with the San Diego and San Bernardion County Sheriffs and I thought their physical tests were harder than the CHP's.
However, the oral interview was a killer. I thought I was being interogated. The interview lasted nearly an hour and a good 30 minutes were spent grilling me about the time I wrecked a HumVee.
They did ask situational questions that were geared for common sense and maturity more than a Law Enforcement answer. For example, They gave me a situation; I am on patrol you spot a stolen van and give chase. The van exits the highway and passes through a school zone what do you do?
They also asked what I would do if I pulled a vehicle over and the occupant identifies himself as a Sgt. in a local PD. On the seat next to him is a bag of Marijuana. What do you do?

This is as far as I got. I did well in the testing, and I got the offer in 1998. California state law allows state employees to be hired up to 8 years early if in active duty military. I activate my file in Oct. At which time I will complete the psych, med and background.
Good luck and I hope this helps you.
Ken