Becoming an Alberta Health Services (AHS) protective services (peace) officer can be a challenging and rewarding career path for those who are interested in working in the healthcare industry and promoting public safety. Let’s explore the steps to become an AHS peace officer, the requirements, and the responsibilities of this profession.
What is an Alberta Health Services (ahs) Protective services Officer?
An AHS peace officer is responsible for providing front line level security services designed to proactively mitigate loss or damage, de-escalate incidents of aggression and to ensure a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors. You will also respond to security, fire and personal safety related issues in accordance with current legislation and established AHS and site policies and procedures, maintaining peace, order, and public safety within AHS facilities and properties. They have the authority to enforce provincial laws and regulations, investigate crimes, and provide security services. AHS peace officers work closely with healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of patients, visitors, and staff.
Steps to Becoming an AHS Peace Officer
- Meet the Eligibility Requirements
- Apply for an AHS Peace Officer Position
- Pass the Physical (PARE) and any written exams
- Pass the Interview
- Complete the Required Training
BLUE LINE FITNESS TESTING CAN HELP YOU BECOME An ahs protectice services peace officer WITH OUR STANDARD FIRST AID COURSES, CPR LEVEL-C CERTIFICATION, INTERVIEW PREPARATION SESSIONS AND PRACTICE AND CERTIFICATION TESTING FOR THE COMPLETION OF THE PHYSICAL ABILITIES REQUIREMENT EVALUATION (PARE)
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements
To become an AHS peace officer, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You must be at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident, and have a valid Class 5 driver’s license. You must also have a minimum high school diploma or equivalent and have a clean criminal record. Two years post-secondary education in Security, Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice preferred. Two years related security/law enforcement experience is also preferred. WHMIS training and a Certificate in CPI Non-violent Crisis Intervention and Pressure Point Control Tactics is an asset. Current First Aid and CPR Level C – AED certification preferred. In addition, you must be physically fit and pass a medical examination.
STEP 2: Apply for an AHS Peace Officer Position
You can search for job opportunities on the AHS website or on other job posting sites. You may also consider applying for a volunteer position or an entry-level security job to gain experience and increase your chances of getting hired. Before applying, ensure you have all your required documents so that your application can be moved forward without any delays.
step 3: Pass the Physical (PARE) and any written exams
To pass the PARE, the participant must perform all activities as per the defined protocol and complete the timed portion of the test within 4:45 minutes, and then demonstrate the ability to lift and carry the 80 lb torso bag a distance of 50′. To prepare for the PARE test, regular training at Blue Line will include both cardiovascular and strength training. These types of training can be done in combination or separately. You are encouraged to be highly physically active for at least 4 to 6 weeks before attempting the PARE; including:
3 to 5 high intensity cardiovascular training sessions with an elevated heart rate per week, (walking and jogging will not suffice) and
2 to 3 resistance training sessions per week with a focus on core and leg strength.
Blue Line has weekly classes, obstacle specific workshops and practice sessions for you to be fully prepared to pass your PARE. Check out our post on How to Pass the PARE for more information!
step 4: pass the interview
Being fully prepared for your interview is also key to becoming an AHS protective services officer and knowing how to answer questions to the best of your ability can be achieved by taking our one hour Interview Preparation sessions.
Things to keep in mind when prepping for your interview:
- Competencies for the job
- Knowledge of the roles and responsibilities
- Specific examples and the STAR method.
The interview panel is usually made up of a team lead (supervisor) and a manager but may also include an additional team lead or human resources personnel. You must be willing to work in one of several locations in Alberta so be ready to discuss which locations you prefer during your interview.
Being very specific in your answers and providing answers that detail what you specifically did in the situation using “I” statements will allow you to fully describe your skillset, competency and abilities.
After your interview, the recruiter will:
- check all your references
- verify your academic credentials
- do any other required checks / verifications
STEP 5: Complete the Required Training
Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you must complete the required Peace Officer training program. The training program can range from 6 weeks to 9 weeks, depending on the type of AHS peace officer you want to become. During the training, you will learn about applicable legislation, investigative techniques, emergency response procedures, control tactics and communication skills.
Check out the AHS training program!
On-the-job training
After you successfully complete the AHS Training Program, you will placed in the Field Training Program. This gives you vital operational experience and leads you to becoming a fully inducted AHS protective services officer in Alberta.
We can help you pass the PARE test and interview if you want to become an Ahs protective services peace officer.
Blue Line has experienced instructors and certified coaches who know exactly how to get people into the physical and mental condition they need to pass their PARE as part of any law enforcement entrance testing protocols and experienced staff to guide you through your interview preparation.
Are you ready to run and pass your PARE? Need help to ace that interview? Contact us today to start your journey towards your law enforcement career.
For more information on PARE prep and testing or any of the other law enforcement testing Blue Line offers, check out these pages and posts:
Becoming a Fish & Wildlife Officer in Alberta
Everything you Need to know about being a Sheriff in Alberta
Sirens, Slammers and Service – A podcast for first responders
