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Police Trainee Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

High School Diploma or a GED Certificate, plus six (6) months experience as Police Recruit or trainee with the Pascua Yaqui Police Department. Preferred: Lateral Police Officer applicants must be ...

High School Diploma or a GED Certificate, plus six (6) months experience as Police Recruit or trainee with the Pascua Yaqui Police Department. Preferred: Lateral Police Officer applicants must be ...

Police Officer Recruit

Mesa, AZ Ā· On-site

$73K - $103K/yr

This is a trainee class for protective service work in the Police Department. An employee in this class receives academy instruction and field training in the areas of patrol methods, causes of ...

This class is responsible for performing related duties as required This is a trainee class for protective service work in the Police Department. An employee in this class receives academy ...

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Police Trainee information

See Arizona salary details

$20.9K

$47.9K

$68.9K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in Arizona is $47,875.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,835.00 and $56,796.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does 4 fingers up mean for cops?

For police trainees and officers, holding up four fingers can be a gesture used to signify the number four, often in contexts like counting or signaling. It may also be part of specific hand signals or communication methods used during training or operations, but its meaning can vary depending on the situation or department protocols.

What is the difference between Police Trainee vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice TraineePolice Officer
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic police academy trainingComplete police academy; sworn law enforcement officer
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, learning phaseActive duty in the field, enforcing laws
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies during trainingFull-time law enforcement agencies

Police Trainees are in the training phase, focusing on learning laws and procedures under supervision. Police Officers have completed training and are responsible for patrolling, enforcing laws, and responding to incidents. The trainee role is a stepping stone to becoming a fully sworn officer.

What are Police Trainees?

Police Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training to become fully qualified police officers. They typically participate in a police academy program where they learn about law enforcement procedures, criminal law, physical fitness, firearms handling, and community interaction. During this period, trainees receive both classroom instruction and hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced officers. Upon successful completion of the training program, they may be eligible for appointment as probationary police officers.

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

To thrive as a Police Trainee, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, basic legal knowledge, and successful completion of police academy training. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and report-writing software is typically required. Strong ethical judgment, teamwork, stress management, and effective communication skills set standout candidates apart. These skills ensure safety, uphold public trust, and support effective law enforcement in diverse and challenging situations.

What should I expect during the field training phase as a Police Trainee?

During the field training phase, Police Trainees are paired with experienced officers who act as mentors and evaluators. You will rotate through different shifts and assignments, gaining hands-on experience responding to calls, conducting traffic stops, and interacting with the community. This period is designed to build your confidence and competence while providing real-time feedback on your performance. Expect a fast-paced environment where adaptability, communication, and problem-solving are key. Trainees are closely monitored and regularly assessed to ensure they meet department standards before moving into solo patrol duties.

What does a police officer trainee do?

A police officer trainee assists experienced officers in enforcing laws, maintaining public safety, and completing administrative tasks. They undergo training in areas such as criminal law, patrol procedures, and communication skills, often working under supervision to gain practical experience before becoming fully certified officers.

Is 27 too late to become a cop?

Police trainee programs typically accept applicants of various ages, and starting at 27 is generally not too late. Many departments value maturity and life experience, and candidates often need to meet minimum age requirements, which usually range from 18 to 21, depending on the jurisdiction. Physical fitness, background checks, and completing police academy training are also essential steps in becoming a police officer.

What is the easiest law enforcement job to get into?

The police trainee position is often considered one of the easiest law enforcement roles to enter, as it typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and minimal prior experience. It serves as an entry-level role that provides on-the-job training and prepares individuals for full police officer duties, often with less competitive requirements than specialized or higher-ranking positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Police jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Police Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,875 per year, or $23 per hour.

POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE

Lake Havasu City, AZ

Lake Havasu City, AZ

$32.35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

*POLICE OFFICER-TRAINEE*

LAKE HAVASU CITY

CLOSING DATE:Ā Ā Ā CONTINUOUS

Status: Full-time, Classified (Nonexempt) Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā  Ā 

Trainee Salary $29.90/hr.Ā 

Grade: P1

DepartmentĀ Ā Ā PD Patrol

Police Officer Rate following graduation from Police Academy: $32.35/Hourly

At the Lake Havasu City Police Department, we protect more than just people - we protect a way of life. With 300 days of sunshine, a world-famous lake, and a tight-knit community, we're looking for future officers ready to serve with heart, integrity, and courage.

Whether you're cruising past the London Bridge or responding to a call in the desert, no two days are the same here - and we like it that way.

The ideal candidate for the Lake Havasu City Police Officer Trainee position is a motivated and community-focused individual who is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and public service. They possess strong communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

If you are looking for the opportunity to start your career in law enforcement, working for a growing and busy agency, submit your completed application atĀ www.lhcaz.gov. Only completed applications will be considered and resumes in lieu of application will not be accepted.

TO VIEW DETAILED JOB DESCRIPTION,Ā Click Here

Why Lake Havasu?

  • 300+ days of sunshineĀ 
  • Stunning natural environment
  • Epic community events
  • Strong sense of community + Arizona sunsetsĀ 
  • Your new favorite off-duty spot: London BridgeĀ 

HIRING INCENTIVE:

  • May be eligible for hiring incentives to include relocation expenses.Ā 

Fully Equipped Like a Pro

  • Officers are provided with department-issued uniforms, which are professionally dry cleaned at the department's expense.Ā 
  • All necessary equipment and duty gear are supplied by the department.

TECHNOLOGY:

  • Department patrol vehicles are equipped with Axon Fleet in-car cameras, an in-car mobile computer, and in-car mounted speed radar.Ā 
  • AI report writing software is utilized, which streamlines the report writing process.

WORK SCHEDULE & CONDITIONS:

  • Shift work requires day, night, weekend, and holiday shifts
  • Depending on the assignment, officers may work 10- or 12-hour shifts. Based on shift start time, a pay differential of 3% or 5% is added to the hourly rate.
  • Officers may work outdoors and may be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Requirements to Roll With Us:

  • Police Officer - AZ State certification as a Police Officer
  • United States Citizenship
  • Ability to pass a background investigation
  • High school diploma or GED (preferably supplemented by coursework in Criminal Justice, and/or Military Service experience).
  • Arizona driver's license (or the ability to get one)

Ā 

You vs. Pre-Approved Testing Process:

oĀ Ā Ā Ā Running
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Jumping
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Climbing Stairs
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Low Crawling
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Jumping (broad-type)
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Moving/dragging a weight (150 pounds).
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Climbing a fence (chain-link/four feet).
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Climbing through a window.
oĀ Ā Ā Ā Changing direction on the run.
Ā 

Writing assignment:Ā 

  • The topic to be announced at successful completion of the physical agility testing.

Ā 

Oral Board Interview:Ā 

  • Those who successfully complete the Oral Board Interview will be given a background questionnaire that will be used to complete the background investigation phase of the selection process, which can take several weeks.
  • Upon completion, candidates who are selected to move forward will be contacted at a later date to schedule a polygraph examination.

Ā  *********PRE-APPROVED TESTING PROCESS - BY INVITATION ONLY*********

  • TBD - National Police Officer Selection Test (POST) ONLINE.Ā Lake Havasu City Police Department has partnered with Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police (AACOP) to administer the POST exam. This exam will consist of Arithmetic, Reading Comprehension, Grammar, and Incident Report Writing. This component will be approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. An overall passing score of 70% is required inĀ order to move forward. Candidates who successfully complete the POST exam will be invited to participate in the Physical agility test. Candidates may purchase at their own expense a Practice National Police Officer Selection Test and POST Study Guide atĀ https://www.applytoserve.com/Study/.

Physical agility testing: Candidates will be required to complete the following:

Ā 

  • Running

  • Jumping

  • Climbing Stairs

  • Low Crawling

  • Jumping (broad-type)

  • Moving/dragging a weight (150 pounds).

  • Climbing a fence (chain-link/four feet).

  • Climbing through a window.

  • Changing direction on the run.

Ā 

Writing assignment: The topic to be announced at successful completion of the physical agility testing.Ā 

Oral Board Interview: Those who successfully complete the Oral Board Interview will be given a background questionnaire that will be used to complete the background investigation phase of the selection process, which can take several weeks.Ā 

Upon completion, candidates who are selected to move forward will be contacted at a later date to schedule a polygraph examination.

Ā 

Additional Comments

Lake Havasu City is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited, to lactation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.Ā 

BENEFITS:

  • Employer provided Medical/Rx (Health Savings Plan, Exclusive Provider Organization)
  • Dental/Vision
  • Wellness Program
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Account/Health Savings Account
  • Employer Provided Basic Life Insurance
  • Optional Additional Life Insurance
  • Optional Insurance-Critical Illness, Hospitalization Indemnity, Accident
  • 11 Paid Holidays Annually
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Paid Time OffĀ 
  • Short Term DisabilityĀ 
  • Long Term Disability
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Sworn Police Officers participate in the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS).Ā 
  • Optional Deferred Compensation
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Service Awards

Applicants for employment opportunities should be aware of the Lake Havasu City policies concerning the use of drugs and alcohol. These policies have not been altered by the passage of Proposition 207. The use of recreational marijuana is a violation of the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy. All positions within the City are required to submit to a pre-employment drug test. A positive result for drugs tested under the policy, including recreational marijuana, may be grounds for withdrawal of an offer of employment.Ā Ā 

The City reserves the right to consider only the most highly qualified applicants. The succeeding examination processes may be required: training and experience, testing, panel interview, employment eligibility verification (EEV) requirements, psychological evaluation, polygraph test, background investigation and alcohol/drug screening test. Appointment subject to successful background investigation and City paid post-employment medical examination after an offer of employment has been made.

Ā 

Lake Havasu City sits comfortably on the eastern shore of Lake Havasu along the Colorado River border of California and Arizona. The city was established in 1963 by Robert P. McCulloch, Sr. as a self-sufficient, planned community.

Lake Havasu City is located on what is known as "Arizona's West Coast," just 3 hours west of Phoenix, 2 hours south of Las Vegas and 4-5 hours east of the Los Angeles area. As part of the northern and western limits of the Sonoran Desert, Lake Havasu City and the surrounding area feature outstanding biodiversity absolutely loaded with beautiful experiences.