4/30/2012 - Portland Police Department Turns to New Media to Recruit the Best
You Tube videos highlight exciting employment opportunities with the department

PORTLAND, Maine – The Portland Police Department is turning to new media in an effort to diversify and recruit the best candidates for currently open police officer positions. In advance of the scheduled written exam for applicants this spring, the department is spreading the word about their operations and employment opportunities on Facebook and You Tube in an effort to reach potential applicants who frequent these sites including the city’s Portland Cityline ( on Facebook). Videos have been developed which highlight work in the department and its important role in protecting and supporting the community (videos can be viewed on the Police Department's home page). An additional video was developed to explain the required physical fitness exam and what is necessary for applicants to pass it ( fitness test video).

“The career of a Portland police officer is truly unique,” stated Portland Police Chief Michael Sauschuck. “Every day you have the opportunity to touch and even change the lives of others and through this service, the community becomes a better and safer place to live.”

“In this age of new media, it is important that we engage members of the public in different ways, providing us with the opportunity to communicate to perspective applicants who have not previously considered a career in law enforcement or reach a candidate we ordinarily cannot speak to. These candidates may come to realize that the work the Portland Police Department does is some of the most rewarding and impactful work you can do. I want them to know that this department could be a great fit for what they want in a career. In making these outreach efforts, the department can achieve its goal of having a fully engaged workforce that reflects the community its sworn to serve,” concluded Chief Sauschuck.

Currently the Police Department is seeking to hire six officers. People interested in joining the department and serving the community will need to apply, pass a written and physical exam and be selected by the department for interviews (additional information is available online). Written exams are scheduled for May 16 and June 7. Qualified candidates will then be chosen by the department and sent to the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.


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