Ruidoso Police Department
1085 Mechem Dr.
Ruidoso, NM 88345
(575)258-7365
(575)258-1145 fax

Un-certified testing process:

- Once your application has been received, your application will be rated for minimum qualifications. If met, you will be scheduled for the following:

1. Computer Aptitude Test (You must score a minimum of 80%)
2. Observation of Dispatch (4 hours)
3. Oral Board Interview 

- If all three portions are completed successfully, you will be given a background packet to complete and return. A thorough background check will be conducted, which includes a Voice Stress Analysis test (similar to a polygraph), and the results are given to the Chief of Police. The Chief will then conduct a personal interview with you and decide whether or not to approve you for hire. If approved, all documentation will be given to Village Hall and they will contact you for a drug screen. Once the drug screen results have returned, you will be given a start date. After this you must also complete a psychological test.

Once hired, you will begin your training with a Communications Training Officer. Within your first year of employment you must complete the following:

- The NM Dispatch Academy (3 weeks)
- Emergency Medical Dispatcher training (24 hours)
- CPR training for dispatchers

Certified testing process:

- Once your application has been processed, you will come to the Ruidoso Police Department for an Oral Board Interview. The Board will review your application and ask you a series of questions. If the Board approves, you will continue on to the background process.

- You will be given a background packet to complete and return. A thorough background check will be conducted, which includes a Voice Stress Analysis test (similar to a polygraph), and the results are given to the Chief of Police. The Chief will then conduct a personal interview with you and decide whether or not to approve you for hire. If approved, all documentation will be given to Village Hall and they will contact you for a drug screen. Once the drug screen results have returned, you will be given a start date. 

For questions regarding the above information, or for general questions, please contact Sergeant Dale Harrison at the link below.

Dale Harrison - Sergeant   #624             
daleharrison@ruidoso-nm.gov