FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2025

Morgantown Police Department Recruiting New Officers; Fire Department to Host Open House

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. - The Morgantown Police Department (MPD) is actively recruiting new officers and invites individuals seeking a rewarding career in law enforcement to apply. The department offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and diverse opportunities for advancement.

“Serving as a police officer in Morgantown means becoming part of a professional team dedicated to public safety and community engagement,” said Chief of Police Eric Powell. “Whether you’re drawn to Patrol, Dive Team, Special Services, Detective Division, K-9, or the Drug Task Force, our department provides specialized units to match your interests and career goals.”

Competitive Compensation and Benefits:

• Starting Hourly Wage: $25.95
• Hourly Wage Upon Certification: $27.96
• Certified WV Officers: Eligible for a $10,000 sign-on bonus
• Non-Certified Officers: $5,000 sign-on bonus
• Benefits include: 
  • Health, dental, and vision coverage
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Parental leave
  • Premium holiday pay
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Pension plan
  • Annual step program
  • Life insurance

2026 Testing Schedule:

• Jan. 24
• April 25
• July 25
• Oct. 24

For full details and to apply, visit www.morgantownpd.com or contact Sgt. Tyler Bradford at 304-284-7454.

Additionally, to attract potential new hires, the Morgantown Fire Department (MFD) will host practice physical exams. These events are designed to give prospective candidates an inside look at the department’s expectations and operations.

The open houses will take place at the Northside Fire Station, 1000 Van Voorhis Rd., Morgantown, WV 26505.

Visitors will have the opportunity to participate in agility trials, engage in a question-and-answer session with members of the department, and take a tour of the facility. MFD personnel look forward to giving recruits and any other citizens interested in becoming firefighters the chance to experience the station firsthand.

“These open houses are about preparation and confidence,” Fire Chief Gary Freshour said. “We want candidates to experience the same physical challenges they’ll face during the official test, but in an environment where they can learn and ask questions. By giving applicants this opportunity, we’re not only improving success rates, we’re helping them understand the real-world demands of firefighting and what it takes to serve our community.”

Agility stations will include essential occupational requirements for firefighters such as stair climbing exercises with a weighted vest, hose dragging, mannequin drills, and hammer striking.

Future MFD Events:

• Practice Physical Exam Sessions: 
  • Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025 (9 a.m.–noon)
  • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026 (9 a.m.–noon)
• Official Physical Exam: Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026
• Written Exam: Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026

For more information about the open houses or application process, visit www.morgantownwv.gov or call the City Clerk’s office at 304-284-7439.

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