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Police Student Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

West Valley-Mission CCD

Police Officer

Saratoga, CA

$9.9K - $13K/mo

Our staff and faculty are among the most qualified in the state and our students appreciate our two ... All police candidates are required to successfully complete a comprehensive POST approved in ...

City of San Bruno, CA

Police Cadet

San Bruno, CA · On-site

The Cadet Program offers an opportunity for students between the ages of 14 and 20 years old to ... police department on a monthly basis, obtain parental consent if under the age of 18, be free of ...

Sacramento State

Police Officer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$7.7K - $9.4K/mo

Department Information The mission of the Sacramento State Police Department is to protect the life, property, and peace of mind of the students, faculty, staff, and visitors of this university. Our ...

California State University

Police Officer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$7.7K - $9.4K/mo

Department Information The mission of the Sacramento State Police Department is to protect the life, property, and peace of mind of the students, faculty, staff, and visitors of this university. Our ...

University of California

Police Officer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

Responds to and investigates calls for police service regarding criminal, non-criminal, or ... Responds to faculty, staff, student, and public complaints of potentially hostile situations and ...

City of Huntington Beach

POLICE CADET

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22.65/hr

Work hours are assigned around the student's class schedule. The Cadet program is designed to ... Police Recruits are full-time, regular status employees (salary plus benefits package) and attend a ...

Santa Rosa Junior College

Police Officer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$7.5K - $9.1K/mo

District Police Opening Date: 03/28/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Description FIRST APPLICATION ... SRJC has approximately 20,000 students, faculty, and staff a semester combined with multiple sites ...

Transylvania University

Police Lieutenant

Roseville, CA · On-site

$144 - $176/hr

... students, faculty, staff, and visitors come together as a diverse and engaged community. The Sonoma ... Reporting to and under the direction of the Chief of Police, the Police Lieutenant is a key ...

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Police Student information

See California salary details

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How much do police student jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for police student in California is $23.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $26.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police student?

Police Students are individuals who are enrolled in a training program or academy to become certified police officers. They receive classroom instruction, physical training, and hands-on experience to learn about law enforcement procedures, criminal law, community policing, and self-defense. Police Students are not yet full officers but are preparing to pass exams and complete requirements necessary for graduation and certification. Upon successful completion of the program, they may be eligible to join law enforcement agencies as probationary officers.

What can I expect from the training and mentorship process as a police student?

As a Police Student, you will undergo a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on field experience. Typically, you'll be paired with experienced officers or mentors who will guide you through daily procedures, legal protocols, and real-world scenarios. The mentorship process is designed to help you build confidence, develop critical decision-making skills, and understand the nuances of community policing. Regular feedback and evaluations are common, ensuring you are well-prepared for the responsibilities of a full officer role.

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

To thrive as a Police Student, a solid educational background (typically a high school diploma or equivalent), physical fitness, and a clear criminal record are essential qualifications. Familiarity with law enforcement training programs, simulation tools, and basic computer systems is often required. Strong communication, ethical judgment, and teamwork skills help Police Students excel in both academic and practical training environments. These abilities are crucial for building a foundation of trust, competence, and readiness for future roles in law enforcement.

What is the difference between Police Student vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice StudentPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; enrollment in police academyHigh school diploma or equivalent; completed police academy training
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often in a classroom or academy settingActive duty in the field, patrolling, responding to incidents
Employer & Industry UsageUsed during training period; part of police department's trainee programFull-time law enforcement officer working in the community

In summary, a Police Student is in training and gaining experience before becoming a full-fledged Police Officer. The Police Student role focuses on education and supervised practice, while the Police Officer role involves active law enforcement duties in the community.

Do police academy students get paid?

Police academy students typically receive a stipend or salary during their training, which can vary by department but often covers living expenses. This pay helps support students as they learn law enforcement skills, physical training, and certification requirements. Some departments may also provide uniforms and equipment at no cost to trainees.
Police Student jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Student job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,919 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Police Officer

West Valley-Mission CCD

Saratoga, CA

$9.9K - $13K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Title Police Officer How many positions are you recruiting for? 1 Campus WVMCCD District (All Campuses)
Position Summary Information
Definition
The West Valley-Mission Community College District is seeking a talented individual to fill the position of Police Officer. We are accepting both entry level and lateral applicants.
Comprised of two colleges, West Valley College and Mission College, we are located in the heart of Silicon Valley. Our staff and faculty are among the most qualified in the state and our students appreciate our two colleges for our friendly staff and supportive atmosphere.
This position provides general law enforcement as a sworn police officer in a P.O.S.T certified law enforcement agency; on assigned shifts, performs patrol duties in uniform without limitations by vehicle or foot to protect life and property, while ensuring the safety and security of students, staff and visitors to the colleges. The Officer will be guided in his or her duties by those directives promulgated by the West Valley-Mission Community College District, including Oath of office, mission statements, vision statements, core values, quality statements, and business plans, as well as department policy and procedures.
Applicants who possess the knowledge, skills, and life experiences to address the cultural and educational needs of a culturally diverse student population are encouraged to apply.
This position is open until filled. First review of applications will begin July 29, 2026.

Assignment
Full-time, 12 months per year (may include nights, weekends, and holidays), in 4/10-hr shifts. District police coverage is seven days per week, 20 hours per day, 365 days a year. Patrol Shifts typically rotate every six months. Assignments may include West Valley College (City of Saratoga) and/or Mission College (City of Santa Clara), relief shifts, special assignments and/or investigation duties. All police candidates are required to successfully complete a comprehensive POST approved in-service field training program. One-year probationary period, after completion of field training program.
This position is represented by the Peace Officers Association (POA) employee bargaining unit.
Work Location: Varies based on assignment - West Valley College, Saratoga, CA, OR Mission College, Santa Clara, CA, OR other locations as assigned.
Salary and Benefits
Salary Range - Steps A-I: $9,997.92 - $13,689.42
Hiring Salary Placement:
  • Entry level - Step A-C: $9,997.92 - $11,056.58 monthly;
    • Initial salary placement for a new bargaining unit member who is not a "Lateral Officer'' shall be based upon the qualifications identified in Steps A-C above.
  • Lateral Officer - Step D-F:
    • Higher steps may be authorized by the Vice Chancellor, Human Resources upon recommendation of the District Chief of Police at the time of appointment for a highly qualified individual, based on years of experience in rank, education, specialized training or certification, or other factors when it is considered to be in the best interest of the District.

Benefits include:
  • Employer-contributed medical, dental and vision for employee, spouse and dependents.
  • Employer-paid long-term disability for employee.
  • Employer-provided life insurance.
  • 15 paid holidays, plus 1 floating holiday annually.
  • 80 hours vacation leave accrued annually.
  • 96 hours sick leave accrued annually.
  • Shift differential (2.5%-5%)
  • POST Intermediate and Advanced certificate pay (3%-5%)
  • Specialty Assignment pay (5%)
  • Bilingual pay
  • $1000 longevity award annually after 10 years of service and $1,500 longevity award annually after 15 years of service.
  • CalPERS retirement [3%@ 55 for Classic Members; 2.7%@ 57 for New Members].
  • The position is union affiliated.

Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of experience and education that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
1. Education: Equivalent to an Associate's degree from an accredited college with major coursework in administration of justice or a related field; and
2. Experience -
  • Recruit/ Academy Graduate - No prior law enforcement experience necessary.
  • Lateral Officer - One year of responsible, non-probationary law enforcement experience.

AND
Understanding of, and sensitivity to the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty, and staff.
LICENSE & CERTIFICATE:
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Basic Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) certificate, including firearms and other tactical equipment use. Note: A valid P.O.S.T certification must be maintained to continue employment.
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, valid American Red Cross C.P.R., First Aid, and AED certification.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under Federal Law (CA Gov. Code Section 1031).

Desired Qualifications
The ideal candidate will also demonstrate the following desired qualifications:
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • A commitment to community service and strategic readiness
  • Current employment with a California law enforcement agency with experience in uniformed patrol and investigations.
  • Possess a California POST, Basic, Intermediate or Advanced certificate.
  • Educational background in police science, law enforcement, criminal justice administration, public administration, or a related field is preferred.

Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of:
  • Methods, principles, and practices of California law enforcement and public safety.
  • All mandated training and procedures including, but not limited to, firearms use, criminal investigative techniques and procedures, interview and interrogation techniques, domestic violence investigation techniques, crime scene investigation techniques, evidence collection and preservation, traffic collision techniques, and tactical communication techniques.
  • Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, rules and regulations, including laws of arrest, vehicle and penal codes.
  • First responder and first aid principles.

Ability to:
  • Assess emergency and non-emergency situations and determine appropriate course of action.
  • On a continuous basis, know and understand all aspects of a sworn police officer's job; intermittently analyze work papers, reports and special projects; remember accounts given by witnesses; identify crime suspects; interpret and apply the law to field situations; observe while conducting surveillance; problem solve crime situations; and explain law to the public.
  • On an intermittent basis, sit at desk or in patrol vehicle; walk and stand during patrol activities; bend, squat and keel during inspection of crime scene or conducting building searches; climb stairs and/or ladders; twist; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling and fine manipulation.
  • Continuously wear a vest of up to 10 pounds and a gun belt of approximately 30 pounds; and occasionally carry weight of 100 pounds or less.
  • Handle firearms safely and effectively, including passing range qualifications; wear body armor; make physical arrests using modern arrest control techniques.
  • Operate police vehicle in both emergency and non-emergency situations.
  • Maintain objectivity while taking control of a situation; exercise respect for the rights of others and maintain good public relations.
  • Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software; utilize law enforcement databases including RIMS Records Management System and Automated Report Management System (ARMS), California
  • Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (CLETS) and Criminal Justice Information Center (CJIC).
  • Pass an extensive background investigation including medical and psychological exams.
  • Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority.
  • Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities.
  • Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties.
  • Communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Relate effectively with people of varied academic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds using tact, diplomacy, and courtesy.
  • Establish and maintain effective, cooperative and collaborative working relationships with others.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Investigate conditions hazardous to life or property; respond to emergency and non-emergency calls for service and assistance in a variety of situations.
  • Conduct surveillance, inspect property and persons, search and check buildings, people, vehicles and objects; secure and protect property, accident and crime scenes.
  • Patrol specific areas in vehicle, on foot, or on bicycle.
  • Respond to mutual aid calls for service to other jurisdictions; may perform duties on off-site grounds and properties owned, operated, controlled, maintained or administered on behalf of the college district, or on properties in close proximity to the college campuses.
  • Perform crowd control and maintain order at accidents, crime scenes, and/or special events; direct traffic at public events and on campus.
  • Identify, pursue and arrest suspects; detain violators, by means of reasonably objective, lawful use of force if necessary; restrain and or subdue individuals by means of standard police techniques using approved equipment; guard prisoners.
  • Promote good community relations; conduct public relations activities including presentations to community and student groups, staff and others; work in cooperation with other public agencies as needed.
  • Perform traffic enforcement and control duties; photograph or draw diagrams of accident scenes, interview principals and eyewitnesses, review facts of incidents, and issue citations as necessary.
  • Appear in criminal and traffic court as required.
  • Administer first aid; call for back-up and medical response when needed.
  • Conduct investigations of suspicious persons and situations, safety hazards and unusual or illegal activity; conduct criminal investigations for narcotics and alcohol violations, property crimes, and crimes against persons; inspect persons and property, including searching and checking buildings and/or vehicles; collect and secure evidence.
  • Administer roadside sobriety and intoxilizer tests; evaluate subjects for evidence of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Write clear and concise reports; read and may create law enforcement bulletins.
  • Attend various training as required.
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other district employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
  • Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

Working Conditions Other Duties Physical Demands Applicant Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applicants are encouraged to apply before the first review date, July 24, 2026.
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Supplemental application questions, if requested; (3) Resume; (4) Unofficial copies of transcripts; (5) Cover letter; (6) Reference list, if requested; and (7) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly. Do not enter "See Resume."
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

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