Volunteers Needed for Civilian Public Safety Interview Panel

The City of Rochester and the United Christian Leadership Ministry of Western New York are seeking people interested in becoming members of Rochester’s Civilian Public Safety Interview Panel. The all-volunteer, citizen-led panel plays a key role in hiring Rochester Police Department officers.

Panel members conduct group interviews with recruits to explore their opinions on policing, culture, race, and their knowledge of the City of Rochester. After each interview, the panel shares its impressions and input with Rochester Police Command staff and the Police Chief. From there, the Rochester Police Department makes final decisions on all employment offers.

“Community involvement is integral to the Rochester Police Department’s recruitment process,” said Rochester Police Chief David M. Smith. “Our officers serve our community, and so we value community voices in selecting the next officers to join our Police force.”

The panel was developed in accordance with New York State Executive Order 203, Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative.

Panel members must:

• Be a City of Rochester resident

• Be at least 21 years or older

• Have regular availability during business hours to conduct interviews

• Pass a background check

• Possess a minimum of a high school diploma or GED

• Be willing to serve a two-year term

• Complete the RPD Citizen’s Police Academy

• Implicit Bias Training

For more information and to apply, visit http://www.cityofrochester.gov/rpdinterviewpanel.

The deadline for this round of applicants is March 30, 2026, but applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Training will be provided.

For additional information, please email hr@cityofrochester.gov or call 585-428-7115.