Special Constables

Special Constables Unit

The Special Constables form one part of the Unit. Other key groups are:

• Call takers receive calls from operators and members of the public. They respond to calls from emergency call boxes or payphones at stations and Park & Rides
• Dispatchers receive information from call takers and dispatch Special Constables or other emergency services as needed
• Security camera operators monitor camera feeds from stations, buses, trains and Park & Rides
• Transit fare inspectors:
  • Preserve the integrity of the fare system and make sure passengers pay the fare they owe
  • Verify proof of payment on busy routes

Special Constable Recruitment

• Requirements
• Selection Process
• Application
• Panel Interview
• Background Investigation

Requirements

• Be a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident of Canada
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be physically and mentally able to perform the duties of the position, having regard to his or her own safety and the safety of members of the public
• Have good moral character and habits
• Not have been convicted of a criminal offence that has not been pardoned
• Have completed at least 4 years of secondary school education or its equivalent and be a graduate of a recognized Community College Police Foundations or Law and Security Diploma
• Have a good knowledge of security or law enforcement operations and principles. This requires a minimum of 2 years of security experience in a transit environment. Related experience in dealing with people and enforcement procedures may be considered as alternate relevant experience (experience and formal training combined with demonstrated performance and ability, may substitute for stipulated academic requirements)
• Have proof of valid Standard First Aid Certificate and valid CPR-Level C
• Have proof of valid Ontario Police Fitness Award (OPFA) Pin Program or the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Certificate of Results for the Constable Selection System or be a current or retired police or peace officer
• Have a valid Ontario Unrestricted “G” class driver’s license (or provincial equivalent) with no demerit points
• Undergo (to the satisfaction of the City of Ottawa) background checks such as:
  • Fingerprinting
  • Driver’s licence history
  • Credit checks
  • Employment history
  • Psychological testing
  • Police records checks
• Learn, meet and maintain Transit Special Constable Service’s standard in the use of oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray, baton and the use of force continuum

Selection Process

If you meet the requirements above, you may advance through the selection process. Each stage in this process is competitive.

Application

The following documentation is required:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Proof of a valid Ontario Police Fitness Award (OPFA) Pin Program or the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police Certificate of Results for the Constable Selection System
  • OPFA Testing standards
• Original police Clearance Letter dated within the last 12 months. A Clearance Letter is a formal document produced on secure paper indicating that the subject of the inquiry has no criminal convictions in the National Repository of Criminal Records maintained by the RCMP
• Proof of valid Standard First Aid Certificate and valid CPR-Level C

Competency-based panel interview

Candidates must demonstrate that they have the following competencies:

• Leadership and negotiation skills
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Assertiveness and self-control
• Conflict/dispute/crisis resolution skills
• Sensitivity to the needs of all people and cultures
• Communication skills

Background Investigation

Candidates selected to proceed beyond the interview stage will need to:

• Undergo an investigation of their background and personal history
• Complete an Ottawa Police Background Investigation Form and a Special Constable Unit pre-background questionnaire. A thorough background investigation, which includes both security and reference checks will be conducted
• Complete a psychological test and attend an interview with a psychologist

If you are a suitable applicant who is interested in a rewarding career with the Special Constable Unit please apply through the City of Ottawa job portal when positions are posted.

Special Constable Complaints Process

Two types of formal complaints can be made against Special Constables:

1. A complaint about the policies or services of the Special Constables Unit (SCU)
2. A complaint about the conduct of a Special Constable.

Any member of the public who is directly affected by the conduct of a Special Constable or SCU services or policies can make a complaint.