When Mike Henry saw a job opening posted for the Chester Township Police Department, he knew it was time.

The Byram native knows the area well, growing up a few miles away and having to drive through it to get to his most recent job as an officer with the Tewksbury Township Police.

This has been a long time coming for the officer who graduated Morris County Police Academy in 2008, and it wasn’t his first go-around with the Chester Township Police Department.

Henry interviewed with the squad in 2009, but didn’t get the job.

“(Being hired) is very satisfying,” Henry said. “I just want the experience here. It’s such a great town and great department to be part of.”

When Henry caught wind of potential layoffs in Tewksbury, he started looking around at other opportunities, but didn’t have to stray far.

“I only submitted an application to one place–Chester Township,” Henry said, who underwent four interviews since April. “Chief (Wayne) Martini has been outstanding during this entire process, and I can’t thank him enough for the opportunity."

Henry said he’s been welcomed with open arms to the force, joining 15 other officers under the command of Martini.

The 28-year-old was sworn in last week by Mayor Bill Cogger and began his duties immediately.

“This is a progressive, proactive department,” Henry said. “There’s no gray area with how we operate and the (officers) have been nothing but great. It’s very rewarding.”