I work for an agency in CA with just under 2K sworn.  Our invesitgator (detective) selection process is competetive and consists of:

1-Points based on seniority/education/military time,
2-Multiple choice test
3-Written essay test
4-Interview panel

I am currently preparing for the last step, which is an oral interview in front of a panel of 3 lieutenants.  If you've gone through this type of interview before, please provide me with sample questions (other than "What have you done to prepare blah blah?"), or tips for success.

I've been through three of these so far and you count on the standard questions:

Why did you apply for this position?
What makes you a better candidate than the others who have applied?-or-Why should you be promoted to this position ahead of the other candidates?
What are your strengths?
What are your weaknesses?


There are several variations based upon the specific position that you applied for (Homocide,Vice,etc.).  Good luck.

You hit the first question!!

Ask about why they want the job..

Scenario questions...... base them on the areas they are likely to investigate. We always have at least three.

Search and seizure questions. SW, auto search, recent court rulings, and policy

And that is about it.....since every state and dept is different not each question will apply

BTW, we only do a file review and an oral board. Some areas require a packet submission to make sure they have experience with telephonics, T3, interviews, case prep and surveillance.