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Police Trainee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Police Officer Trainee

Durango, CO · On-site

$26.40/hr

As a Police Officer Trainee, you'll attend law enforcement academy, where you'll develop an understanding of criminal process, judicial process, Colorado Criminal Code, patrol and investigation ...

As a Police Officer Trainee, you'll attend law enforcement academy, where you'll develop an understanding of criminal process, judicial process, Colorado Criminal Code, patrol and investigation ...

Police Officer 1 (POST)

Parker, CO · On-site

$43.22/hr

ParkerOnline.org/PoliceEmploymentDisqualifiers Be sure to select the 'Sworn/Trainee Position ... Knowledge of modern police principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment. Knowledge of modern ...

Police Cadet

Greeley, CO · On-site

$120K/yr

Cadet will transition to Police Officer trainee position upon graduation from law enforcement academy. * Valid driver's license and good driving record. * Legally able to work in the United States.

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Police Trainee information

See Colorado salary details

$20.2K

$46.4K

$66.8K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in Colorado is $46,419.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,653.00 and $55,068.00 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 Colorado? The most popular types of Police jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Police Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,419 per year, or $22.3 per hour.
Police Officer Trainee (FT)

$36/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

New


Job description

Job Summary Become a Police Officer with the Parker Police Department: Make a Difference in Your Community Have you always dreamed of becoming a Police Officer. Do you want to make a meaningful impact on the community you serve. Now's your chance.

The Parker Police Department is seeking passionate individuals to apply for our sponsored Police Recruit program. Police Recruit/Trainee FAQ | Parker Police - Official Website What We Offer: We'll cover your academy costs and pay you an annual salary of $74,880 ($36.00/hr), while you complete the twenty-one (21) week academy. Upon graduation, you'll transition to a Parker Police Officer 1 with an annual salary of $89,897.60

We offer some of the highest pay for officers in the State of Colorado. Work in a community that provides unmatched support for law enforcement professionals. Employees are eligible to apply for special assignments, duties, and instructorships (DOE) after successfully completing a twelve-month probationary period as a Police Officer 1.

About Us: The Parker Police Department is committed to providing exemplary service to the citizens of the Town of Parker, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest ethical standards while fostering a safe environment for our residents. We operate under the philosophy of community policing, which means our officers are encouraged to engage directly with the community-building trust, forging partnerships, and improving the quality of life for everyone in Parker.

By working together with the community, we solve problems and ensure Parker remains a great place to live, work, and play. Community Engagement: Our department is deeply involved in the community through events like National Night Out, Coffee with a Cop, and youth outreach programs. We believe in being more than just law enforcement; we are neighbors, partners, and advocates for the people we serve.

Why Join Us. As a member of the Parker Police Department, you'll be part of a supportive, collaborative team that encourages leadership at every level. You'll receive ongoing training and career advancement opportunities, helping you develop professionally and personally.

We are looking for dedicated, driven individuals who want to contribute to the safety and well-being of our community. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, we would be honored to have you join the Parker Police family. Apply today and be a part of something truly impactful.

Learn more about our agency HERE!. This sponsored position attends the Level 1 Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Board Certification Academy. Upon successful completion of the Academy and obtaining a Level 1 P.O.S.T

Certification, this position transitions to a full-time Police Officer in the Patrol Division of the Parker Police Department. Prior to hire, but following successful completion of the background process, a training agreement for this sponsorship is required. This agreement binds the Recruit/Trainee to a two (2) year employment commitment to the Town of Parker Police Department with outlined sanctions if not fulfilled.

*This position performs duties deemed to be safety sensitive. Employees holding this position participate in pre-employment and random drug testing under Town's policies* **NOTE** A list of disqualifiers for this position MUST be read prior to applying for this position and can be viewed at www.ParkerOnline.org/PoliceEmploymentDisqualifiers. Be sure to select the 'Sworn/Trainee Position Applicant Disqualifiers' option for the correct list

**NOTE**The number of Academy positions may vary based on number of vacancies within the agency. Currently, we would like to fill 3-4 positions. Examples of Essential Duties To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with a disability to perform the essential duties. The below list is intended to be illustrative of the responsibilities of this position and is not all encompassing. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement and the Town may change these duties at any time.

Attends a P.O.S.T Academy selected by the Parker Police Department. Attendance consists of a minimum of five hundred and fifty-six (556) hours of state-mandated training, at the dates and times outlined by the course curriculum and P.O.S.T. Academy Director

Communicates with the Police Department throughout the P.O.S.T Academy. The progress of the Recruit/Trainee is monitored and input provided by the Department for the duration of the same. Attends meetings and/or briefings as determined by Patrol Command Staff

Upon obtaining P.O.S.T. Certification, the Recruit/Trainee will be assigned a Police Officer position and must, at that time, review and acknowledge the job description for that position. Minimum Qualifications Must be twenty (21) years of age by completion of the P.O.S.T

Academy. Requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Formal education, often achieved through completion of a bachelor's or associate degree, in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice or a related field is preferred.

Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid Driver's License issued by the State of Colorado for the type of vehicle or equipment operated; safe driving record and a minimum of two (2) years of driving history. Employment Standards The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.

Knowledge of human nature, human problems, and problem-solving methods. Skill in interpersonal communications skills. Ability to attend a full-time P.O.S.T

certified Police Academy as identified by the Parker Police Department. Ability to successfully complete the Police Academy and obtain a Level 1 Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Board certification. Ability to work independently with limited direct supervision

Ability to learn and interpret relevant town, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies. Ability to retain knowledge of modern police principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment. Ability to read and write the English language effectively.

Ability to perform work which requires good physical condition. Ability to follow both verbal and written instructions and the ability to issue clear concise verbal and or written instructions. Ability to problem solve and function under pressure.

Ability to successfully complete a background check including but not limited to: criminal history search, drug screen, motor vehicle record (MVR) check, polygraph, psychological and physical examination and physical agility test is required. Additional Information **NOTE**The number of Academy positions may vary based on number of vacancies within the agency and the approval of the annual budget process by the Town Council of the Town of Parker. Recruits/Trainees must attend the academy that is selected and utilized by the Parker Police Department.

The regular basic course, commonly referred to as the Police Academy, consists of 556 hours of state-mandated training. The curriculum is certified by the P.O.S.T., and was developed based on empirical studies by the commission of the skills, knowledge and abilities required of law enforcement officers. Depending upon the provider of the training, the number of hours for the presentation will vary, but will never be less than the mandatory number of hours of 556

Any additional training hours must be P.O.S.T. certified training hours. Recruits/Trainees are expected to attend the academy at the dates/times outlined by the course curriculum and P.O.S.T

Academy Director. To support the Recruit/Trainee during this time, channels of communication will be open between the Parker Police Department and the selected academy in order to monitor the progress of Recruits/Trainees and provide input to the academy training program. The regular basic course offered by the outside academies shall provide training as specified in P.O.S.T

and testing specifications. The academy shall be responsible for the administration of the prescribed training programs and provide for the fair and nondiscriminatory testing of each Trainee. Recruitment Timeline: (dates are subject to change) 07/10/26 - 07/21/26: Reviewing Applications & Preliminary Testing *Testing includes: Two (2) release forms, Typing Test, Written Exam and Video Interview.

Must pass all testing phases and score high enough to move to Oral Board process. Note: Preliminary testing will be done 100% online and custom emails will be sent to candidates regarding instructions after application review. Deadline to complete testing is 7/28/2026 at 5pm MST.

Candidates will be notified of next steps in the process no later than 8/11/26. 8/18, 8/20 and possibly if needed 8/25: Presentations/Oral Board Interviews 8/27: Chief's Interviews September - October: Backgrounds Hire date: First week in January Start of Academy: 1/18/2027 (approximately) Academy Graduation: June 2027 Once POST Certification has been obtained the Trainee will be promoted to a Police Officer 1. Additional Information: The working conditions described below are representative of those an employee generally encounters while performing the essential duties of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with a disability to perform the essential duties. Tools & Equipment Requires the frequent use of general office equipment and general school equipment as deemed necessary by the P.O.S.T. Academy instructors

Recruits/Trainees shall not be authorized to carry a weapon until they have completed the P.O.S.T. Academy, have attended the Parker Police Department mini-skills training, and have been sworn in as a commissioned officer for the Town of Parker. Physical Demands Requires varying degrees of physical demands, some sedentary, some requiring strenuous physical effort

While wearing approximately fifteen to twenty pounds (15-20 lbs.) of equipment including but not limited to bullet proof vest and equipment belt a member in this job may be required to: Lift and/or move objects weighing two hundred (200) pounds or more, including the limp body of a person. Physically wrestle, struggle, fight, restrain, or otherwise subdue/restrain uncooperative people of various abilities, strength and/or quickness to rescue endangered persons, or physically separate individuals who are fighting, or preparing to fight. Jump over obstacles or ditches and negotiate passage through difficult terrain or areas

Function fully in darkness and daylight, close and distance vision acuity, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust his or her focus, allowing a broad field of vision. Perform First Aid/CPR. Operate a law enforcement vehicle safely in non-emergency (routine) and emergency situations, including various weather conditions at various speeds.

Other physical demands as outlined in the course description of the P.O.S.T. Academy. Environment Work is performed in a variety of environments including classroom, indoor and outdoor environments as established by the P.O.S.T

Academy. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and humid conditions, hot (may be extreme) and/or cold (may be extreme) conditions, fumes, toxic or caustic chemicals, airborne particles, and vibrations. The employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts; in high, precarious places or with explosives.

Inquiries related to this job posting may be sent to moliver@parkerco.gov. An online application for this position is required. To apply, visit the employment page of our website, www.parkeronline.org/employment

We do not accept resumes or applications from 3rd party sites. The Town of Parker is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Information about the Academy: The Highlands Ranch Law Enforcement Basic Training Academy is a joint effort between the Douglas County Sheriff's Offices and other agencies within the 18th and 23rd Judicial Districts and beyond.

Our Academy is designed to develop highly trained peace officers in a professional environment conducive to learning, emphasizing leadership, respect, and service. Our Basic P.O.S.T.-approved Academy has a 21-week curriculum. The following electives are included in the Academy: First Aid/CPR/AED Certification OC Certification Taser Certification Rifle Certification Use of Force Family Wellness Academy Drill and Ceremonies Critical Incident Review (Officer-Involved Shootings) The Academy costs approximately $10,000 (This cost is covered by the Town of Parker)

We only accept sponsored Cadets from Law Enforcement Agencies.