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Police Officer Trainee Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

$60 - $80/hr

This is a temporary trainee classification used to qualify and train candidates' under‑filling permanent Police Officer positions. Participates in a Qualifying Training Program to learn, through ...

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Police Officer Trainee information

See Kentucky salary details

$28.2K

$54K

$89.9K

How much do police officer trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for police officer trainee in Kentucky is $53,977.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,100.00 and $64,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police officer trainee?

Police Officer Trainees are individuals who have been hired by a law enforcement agency to undergo training in police academy programs. During this period, they learn the fundamental skills, laws, procedures, and ethics required to perform the duties of a police officer. Trainees are not fully sworn officers yet; they must successfully complete the academy and field training before becoming full-fledged police officers. The role is designed to prepare candidates for the physical, mental, and legal challenges of police work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police officer trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Officer Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, legal knowledge, and a clean background check. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and completing police academy training are typically required. Strong communication, sound judgment, and emotional resilience help trainees effectively interact with the public and handle high-stress situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensuring safety, upholding the law, and building public trust in the community.

What are some common challenges faced during the police officer trainee program and how can they be overcome?

Police officer trainees often face challenges such as adapting to a strict training regimen, mastering legal procedures, and developing effective communication skills under pressure. The physical and academic demands can be intense, requiring strong time management and resilience. Building camaraderie with fellow trainees and seeking guidance from experienced officers can help ease the transition. Staying organized, maintaining a positive mindset, and proactively asking for feedback are effective strategies for overcoming these challenges and succeeding in the program.

What is the difference between Police Officer Trainee vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice Officer TraineePolice Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED; some agencies require college courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy certification
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseActive duty, patrol, enforcement, and community engagement
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning laws, procedures, and skills; assisting officersEnforcing laws, patrolling, responding to incidents

The main difference between a Police Officer Trainee and a Police Officer is that trainees are in a learning phase, undergoing training and supervision, while officers are fully qualified and perform active law enforcement duties. Trainees focus on gaining skills and knowledge, whereas officers carry out the responsibilities independently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police Officer jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Police Officer jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Police Officer Trainee jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Police Officer Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Officer Trainee job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,977 per year, or $26 per hour.

Police Officer Trainee - Dallas Police (Civil Service)

Dallas Parks

On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Dallas is Growing. Grow With Us.

Looking for more than just a job? The City of Dallas offers careers with purpose. With competitive benefits, growth opportunities, and a vibrant work culture, we’re committed to helping you thrive while you help our city flourish. Be part of a team that’s committed to service, innovation, and community.

Job Summary

This is a temporary trainee classification used to qualify and train candidates’ under‑filling permanent Police Officer positions.

Job Description

This is a temporary trainee classification used to qualify and train candidates’ under‑filling permanent Police Officer positions. Participates in a Qualifying Training Program to learn, through formal classroom instruction, the basic police procedures, techniques, and laws required to perform the duties of a Dallas Police Officer.

Examples of Qualifying Documents College Transcripts/Unofficial Transcript (including required number of hours and overall GPA of 2.0 - Diplomas are not considered a qualified document) (DO NOT attach your degree certificate) Military DD214 [member page 4] (if separated) and/or Statement of Service (if currently active). This must be provided for any federal military service. Statement of Service must include: Dates of service Anticipated separation date (must be no more than seven (7) months following application date) Anticipated discharge status Active TCOLE Peace Officer License Out of State Law Enforcement License Do Not Attach Resumes Cover Letters

Essential Functions
  1. Attends a 32‑week Basic Training Course at the Dallas Police Academy, which will provide classroom and field instruction in basic police procedures, techniques, and laws.
  2. After passing the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Basic Peace Officer Licensing Examination, will receive additional training in Dallas Police Department specific courses including Dallas City Code (city ordinances), and other real‑life police situations and functions.
  3. Performs other related duties, including special projects, as requested or required.
  4. Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is an essential function of the job.
Minimum Qualifications

Applicants for trainee police officer must: (1) be at least 19.5 years of age and not have reached 45 years of age on the date the civil service written examination is given; (2) have demonstrated safe driving habits and be qualified to drive a motor vehicle in Texas; (3) for any completed military service, a designation of honorable or uncharacterized discharge as indicated on separation documents provided by the military; and (4) meet one of the following qualifications: (A) a minimum of 45 semester hours college credit with a C average or better from an accredited college or university; (B) a minimum of 36 months of full‑time certified law enforcement experience (from date of receipt of license) with a city, county, or state law enforcement agency and be currently employed or separated from the agency for no more than four months prior to the date of application; (C) an active, valid Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) Basic Peace Officer license; or (D) a minimum of 36 months active service in the Armed Forces of the United States with an honorable discharge or an uncharacterized discharge as indicated on separation documents provided by the military. Applicants whose military service is no more than 10 calendar days less than 36 months are acceptable; more than 10 days less than the full 36 months requires approval from the Assistant Chief of Police over the Personnel and Support Division; or (E) be at least 2l years of age with a minimum of a high school diploma or general education development (GED) and 36 months of full‑time, consecutive employment experience.

Additional Department Requirements

No felony or class A misdemeanor convictions No class B misdemeanor convictions within the last ten (10) years Must have valid driver’s license with good driving record. Must possess the physical/medical health to adequately perform the duties of a Police Officer

Exam Description

Exam covers map reading, reading comprehension, prioritization, probability, vocabulary and word use, mathematics, sentence clarity, and character comparison.

Time Limit

Three (3) hours Practice Test: https://neogov.testgenius.com/application/user-registration.html?dallas-DPD%20Police%20Officer%20Trainee%20Practice%20Exam

Supplemental Information: Dallas Police Department Process PHASE I

Once candidates pass the Civil Service process, they will be contacted and referred to the Dallas Police Department Recruiting Unit to continue the process (Physical readiness test, Document completion/verification, Polygraph, Applicant Interview Board)

In‑Person Testing
  • Physical Readiness Test
  • Document completion/verification
  • Polygraph
  • Applicant Interview Board

Prior to arriving for in‑person testing, please download, complete, and print the following forms (Do not sign the forms) Out of area applicants may be asked to email a copy of these forms to ensure eligibility before traveling

Preliminary Interview Form

Applicants answer a series of questions to confirm they meet the minimum requirements and have no disqualifying factors. The form can be found here: Preliminary Interview Form.pdf

Personal History Statement

The Personal History Statement will be used as a basis for a background investigation that will determine your eligibility for becoming an employee. The form can be found here: Personal History Statement.pdf

Physical Readiness Test

Applicants must bring appropriate athletic training clothes (no tank tops), running shoes, small towel, snacks, and drinking water in a small bag to testing. Before traveling to Dallas, ensure you can pass the physical readiness test. We expect 100% effort! The test is given in the order shown below. Vertical Jump (minimum 6.5 inches) Bench Press, free weights (*minimum 56% of your body weight) Illinois Shuttle Run (maximum time of 24.9 seconds) Sit‑ups (minimum of 14 repetitions in 1 minute) 300Meter Run (maximum time of 110 seconds) Push‑ups (minimum of 4 repetitions) 1.5Miles Run (maximum time of 19:09 minutes) *(Current Body Weight X 0.56 = Bench Press Weight)

Document Completion/Verification

Dallas Police Department personnel will verify all required supporting documents brought by the applicant. Applicants will finalize any portions of their documents that need clarification or completion before signing. Applicants will complete a pre‑polygraph questionnaire in preparation for the polygraph examination.

Polygraph Examination

The polygraph examination is used to verify the truthfulness of the information provided by the applicant and to inquire about undetected crimes, illegal drug use, employment, and other relevant information.

Applicant Interview Board (AIB)

Applicants appear in front of a board in formal business attire. Applicants are asked scenario‑based questions and are graded on their appearance, communication skills, judgment, and logical reasoning.

Background Investigation

Once the applicant completes the in‑person testing the background investigation will begin. Applicants who pass all the previous steps proceed to the background investigation. Applicants must submit a complete, detailed, and accurate Personal History Statement. A detective conducts an extensive background investigation to include but not limited to, contacting all prior/present employers, references, co‑workers, ex‑spouses, family members, and schools. Also, the applicant’s residential history, record of financial responsibility, military records, driving history are investigated. Background investigations typically take two to four months to complete. Most delays are caused by the lack of reference response. Once the background investigation is completed, the applicant’s file is routed through the chain of command for review and approval. If the applicant is approved for hire, he/she a conditional offer of employment.

PHASE II

Once the applicant accepts the conditional offer of employment, he/she must return to Dallas to complete the below tests:

  • Psychological Examination: Applicants complete two psychological written tests and are interviewed by a staff psychologist.
  • Medical Examination: The applicant’s physical and medical conditions are evaluated to ensure that he/she can function safely as a police officer.
  • Drug Screening: Applicants provide samples, and these are analyzed to detect the use of illegal drugs.
Salary Range

The salary listed on this job posting is the starting salary range; amount offered will depend upon qualifications.

Equal Opportunity Statement

City of Dallas is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Contact

Questions? Contact our recruiting departments: Civil Service - civilserviceinfo@dallascityhall.com Talent – Acquisition hrtalent@dallas.gov

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