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Police Trainee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Police Trainee information

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 Georgia? The most popular types of Police jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Police Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Georgia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Police Officer Trainee or Police Officer Sworn

Police Officer Trainee or Police Officer Sworn

City of Savannah

Savannah, GA • On-site

$48K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 27 days ago


City Of Savannah (Georgia) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 832 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Purpose New Starting Annual Salary . New Sign On Bonus . $7,500 for Recruits / $10,000 for Laterals Police Officer Trainees will start at $48,484/year Police Officer at $61,989/year Lateral Officer $61,989 to $66,755 * Based on years of experience INCENTIVES FOR LATERAL ENTRY POLICE OFFICERS Lateral Entry Officers with at least 2 years of experience are eligible for advancement to Corporal rank 1 year after obtaining solo status.

Lateral Entry Officers are eligible for a take home vehicle upon obtaining solo status. Lateral Entry Officers are granted immediate eligibility for Extra Duty work upon gaining solo status ($50.00 an hour at a 4-hour minimum). Lateral Entry Officers in good standing are eligible to transfer to Specialized Units one year after obtaining solo status

The purpose of this job is to obtain basic training and understanding in municipal law enforcement principles and procedures and its relationship with the judicial system and corrections. A Police officer trainee is a non-sworn employee of a police department. Your responsibilities revolve around learning basic skills and procedures needed to be a police officer.

In addition to training, you may observe professional police officers as they perform their duties. Under direct guidance and supervision, receives field training and assists in the enforcement of local, state, and federal laws. Applicants hired as Police Officer Trainees will start at $48,484/year.

Upon graduation of the Academy and being sworn in, applicants will move to the position of Police Officer at $61,989/year. For any questions, or more information about becoming a Police Officer Trainee or Sworn Police Officer with Savannah Police Department, please visit www.SavannahPD.org, or call 912-651-4226. We offer an excellent benefits package to include: 12 paid holidays, medical/dental/vision insurance, wellness programs, education reimbursement, employee referral program, employer home purchase assistance, deferred benefit contribution plan, 457 B, Police Officer Annuity Benefit (POAB), may be eligible for Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits and U.S

Department of Veterans OJT Apprenticeship program Visit theVA OJT Apprenticeship Benefitswebsite to see how it works Did you know that working for a government agency (state, local or Federal) may qualify you for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness. All applicants are required to complete the Personal Data Form and Background Information Questionnaire by clicking on the links below: Savannah Police Department Pre-Employment Personal Data Form Savannah Police Department Pre-Employment Background Information Questionnaire Women, Minorities & Veterans Encouraged to Apply. The City of Savannah is an Equal Opportunity Employer Essential Job Functions Learns major functions of inter-relationship and elements of law enforcement, judicial system, and correctional institution.

Learns to recognize ethical and unethical police behavior and characteristics of the law enforcement profession. Enrolls in and completes courses in such areas as constitutional law, Georgia criminal law, criminal procedure, rules of evidence, juvenile law, liability, interpersonal communications, police stress management, patrol operations, criminal reporting, crisis intervention, criminal investigations, preliminary investigations, etc. Works toward completion of state certification by Police Academy.

Trains and studies with police equipment and other training personnel to develop and maintain competency and proficiency. Assists in patrolling assigned areas of responsibility to prevent and reduce criminal activity. Assists in preparing reports on incidents and arrests.

Assists in enforcing traffic laws; conducts vehicle stops; investigates traffic accidents; writes citations. Operates miscellaneous equipment including emergency vehicles, radar, and breath alcohol analyzers. Assists in the processing of evidence and the preparation of court cases; may provide legal testimony as required.

Writes and files daily activity report with superior officer. Performs other related duties as assigned. Performs Shift Work.

Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Valid driver's license and high school diploma or GED is required. Applicant must be 21 years of age by the date of hire and must be a citizen of the United States or a repatriated or naturalized citizen of the United States. An extensive background investigation, and post-offer/pre-employment medical exam including supervised drug screen will be conducted.

DRIVER'S LICENSE HISTORY MUSTNOTCONTAIN: DUI/DWI charge with the disposition of Nolo Contendre, conviction, or plea within the past 5 years, and no two in the past 7 years Suspensions in the past 3 years (except for one Insurance Cancellation) and no two suspensions in the past 7 years. Three or more moving violations in the past 2 years and no more than 6 in the past 7 years Vehicular Homicide, Hit and Run, Fleeing or Attempting to Elude the Police charge/arrest CRIMINAL HISTORY MUSTNOT CONTAIN: Pending Criminal cases Convictions, Nolo Contendre or pleas involving Sexual Offenses, Domestic Violence Act or Impersonation a Police Officer, Perjury or False Statements including first offender pleas Felony convictions and Nolo Contendre or pleas involving felony arrests including first offender pleas Serious Misdemeanor Convictions, Nolo Contendre, or pleas APPLICANTS WILL BE DISQUALIFIED ON THE FOLLOWING: Untruthfulness or the omission of information throughout the application process Anything other than an Honorable Discharge from Armed Forces Membership or association with any hate or terrorist group Unsatisfactory work history within the past three years Unsatisfactory information derived from extensive background investigation Possession or sale of a controlled substance Marijuana use within the past year Use of a controlled substance to include marijuana; however, any use of a controlled substance, including marijuana, which is deemed to be experimental will be reviewed on a case by case basis Individuals hired as Police Officers must comply with a No Use of Tobacco Agreement. I understand this position involves the following terms of employment due to its designation as Safety Sensitive: I will be subject to random drug testing.

Failure to participate or give a urine sample will result in my termination. If I test positive for an illegal substance I will be terminated. The City will conduct motor vehicle record (MVR) checks at any time during my employment.

If I fail to maintain an MVR that meets the City's driver eligibility requirements I will be terminated. I must report any DUI arrest/citation issued by law enforcement to my supervisor within twenty-four (24) hours of the event. If I am convicted of a DUI, I may be terminated for not meeting the City's driver eligibility requirements.

I may be required to participate in a City authorized Employee Assistance Program and that failure to agree to participate will result in my termination. Additional Information Police Officer Trainee- Sign-On Bonus schedule $1,000 @ time of hire $1,000 @ after Patrol Officer Training phase (approximately 34 weeks) $2,000 @ 1st year anniversary $3,500 @ 2nd year anniversary Lateral Entry Bonus Schedule $1,500 @ time of hire $1,500 @ after Patrol Officer Training phase (time based on prior experience) $2,500 @ 1st year anniversary $4,500 @ 2nd year anniversary Retention Bonus For Police Officers Reaching Their 3rd Year Anniversary Date on or after January 1, 2023: Qualified Officers must: have three (3) or more consecutive years of service from their most recent hire date be at the Rank of Police Officer sign and submit a Two-Year Commitment Agreement 1. Police Officer signs 2-year commitment agreement, then receives a.

$4000 (gross) at 3rd year anniversary date - 1st incentive payment b. $2500 (gross) at 4th year anniversary date - 2nd incentive payment 2. Police Officer signs 2-year commitment agreement, then receives c.

$2500 (gross) at 5th year anniversary date - 3rd incentive payment d. $2500 (gross) at 6th year anniversary date - 4th incentive payment Additional Information The application and selection process will consist of the following: Physical Agility Test (PAT) Course Description: The course measures a total of 870 feet (290 yards/265.2 meters) (half-court basketball court). There is a time limit of two minutes six seconds (2:06)-time starts on candidate's movement from the starting line and ends when they pass the finish line

The course consists of a series of nine interspersed individual tasks, arranged in a continuous format that may be viewed as being essential (physical) job tasks for law enforcement training: Penalties Assessed: +2 seconds for knocked down hurdles, +2 seconds for foot faults on "ditch simulation", 3 physical attempts "through the window" and "over the fence" before evaluator can offer run around If a candidate skips stairs going down, they will be returned to the stair landing and repeat. *Requirement must be met by the start of the POST academy. Polygraph Examination Extensive Background Investigation Oral Board Interview Interview with the Police Chief Medical Examination Psychological Evaluation Figure 1: Physical Agility Test (PAT) Course Description Applicants will be performing the above series of nine interspersed individual tasks, arranged in a continuous format that may be viewed as being essential (physical) job tasks for peace officer training: Running There is a time limit of two minutes six seconds (2:06 = 126 seconds)-time starts on candidates' movement from the starting line and ends when they pass the finish line.


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