reserve police

[T.COTE]

I recently applied for a full time police officer position. I didn't get the job, but was told by the LT. that it came down to me and another man with 7 years experience. I not having any experience obviously lost that battle. He did say he liked my interview and wanted me to go onto their reserve unit to build experience.
Is anyone out their on a reserve unit? What type of arrangement do you have with other full time employment?

Any info. would be appreciated. If anyone out their has helped others starting out with schelduling problems I would appreciate it greatly.

thanks

T.COTE

[Charlie]

T.COTE--Usually, if you get on board somewhere as a reserve officer, they require that you complete a certain amount of time of service per month. I think here in TX, most reservist are doing around 16 or 24 hours per month time. BUT, this does not include any training requirements a department might ask of you IF you're a brand new cop just out of the academy.

As far as scheduling goes, I think reserve units at most departments are fairly flexible and can probably work with your full time work schedule.

Charlie

[cpl_mike]

;)Don't feel bad about not being picked this time-it sounds like a smaller Dept. and those usually are looking for "lateral/experienced" as it saves them $ in training and time to put out on patrol.If you think this can help you get into that Dept. take the Lt. up on the reserve officer position. But if it will delay any other job opportunity(ies) politely decline.As Charlie mentioned in Tex, its the same here in Calif-16-24 hrs a month.But similarly ,Agencies across the  country are expecting reserves to have a much training as their full time counter parts(some agencies even pay per diem part time officers)if you take the position, expect an extended academy with longer completion time than the Basic recruit Academy( 9-10 months versus basic 6 months).If you accept this avenue toward getting hired, expect the same  expectations they would place on a regular officer(discipline,adherence to policy,liabilty,etc) and the rewards ( commendations, promotions,specialized units).Does this agency allow you CCW priviledges?coverage medical/dental/accidental death?what about emergency call up or per diem pay? Also expect late night training, as most reserve units are at the academy nights and weekends( helps folks with regular 9-5 jobs aspire to becoming law enforcement) good luck ,either way...