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Police Trainee Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Police Trainee information

See Nevada salary details

$22.7K

$52.1K

$75.1K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in Nevada is $52,137.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,292.00 and $61,852.00 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 Nevada? The most popular types of Police jobs in Nevada are:
What cities in Nevada are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities in Nevada with the most Police Trainee job openings:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Nevada as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,137 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description:

POSITION TITLE: Police Cadet

CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

DEPARTMENT: Law Enforcement

SUPERVISOR: Police Chief

GRADE: NE7 $15.29 ($31,807.36) - $22.93 ($47,694.40)

Position Summary:

The Washoe Tribe Police Department is seeking individuals with an interest in serving the Washoe Tribe Communities with a career in law enforcement. The Police Cadet is an entry level, non-safety position that will participate in initial departmental training and orientation programs, including attending a Police Academy.

The Police Cadet is the police trainee classification designed specifically and solely for the purpose of employing police officer candidates in a non-sworn status during the initial basic police officer academy training. Incumbents will be afforded the opportunity to be appointed to and sworn in as a probationary entry-level police officer with full police authority upon successful and satisfactory completion of academy training. Candidates hired as Police Recruits will be expected to complete a 12-month probationary period from the time of hire. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.

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Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

· Attend a basic Nevada Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certified police officer training academy designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system and specialized training in various laws, police practices and procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid, and physical conditioning.

· Participates in initial departmental training and orientation programs, including field training under direct supervision for the purpose of developing awareness of functions, activities and responsibilities of a police officer.

· Establishes positive working relationships with representatives of community organizations, federal/state/ local agencies and associations, Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California administration and staff, and the public.

· Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

Minimum Qualifications:

· High School Diploma or GED. Must be 21 years of age.

· No felony convictions. No misdemeanor convictions related to Domestic Violence or moral turpitude. No DUI convictions within seven (7) years.

· Must be able to successfully pass a medical examination, physical fitness test, pre-employment drug/alcohol screen, psychological evaluation, voice stress analysis and background investigation.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications:

· Basic understanding of criminology and the Criminal Justice System.

· Basic understanding of principles of mathematics.

· Basic knowledge of applicable federal, state and local laws, codes and regulations.

· Basic knowledge of methods and techniques of scheduling work assignments.

· Basic understanding of standard office procedures, practices and equipment.

· Basic understanding of modern office practices, methods and equipment, including a computer and applicable software.

· Knowledge of methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing; proper English, spelling and grammar; occupational hazards and standard safety practices.

· Ability to successfully and satisfactorily complete the Nevada POST basic academy (Category I); learn laws, police practices and procedures, and first aid.

· Ability to perform mathematical calculations quickly and accurately.

· Ability to interpret, explain and apply applicable laws, codes and regulations; read, interpret and record data accurately.

· Ability to organize, prioritize and follow-up on work assignments; work independently and as part of a team.

· Ability to make sound decisions within established guidelines; analyze a complex issue, and develop and implement an appropriate response.

· Ability to follow written and oral directions, observe safety principles, and work in a safe manner.

· Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

· Establish and maintain effective working relationships.

· Skill to operate an office computer and a variety of word processing and software applications.

· Ability to safely and effectively operate a variety of law enforcement equipment, firearms and a police vehicle in emergency situations.

Physical Demands:

Strength: Heavy Work - Lifting, carrying and/or pushing 100 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Vision: Corrected to 20/20 in one eye, 20/30 in the other. Hearing: Sufficient to communicate via radio. Physical fitness: Sufficient to climb, crawl, sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.

• Incumbents are subject to mandatory overtime and shift rotation.

• Periodically required to train and qualify in the use of firearms, vehicles and specialized law enforcement practices and equipment.

Work Environment:

Work is generally performed outdoors where exposure to natural weather conditions and various dusts and mists may occur. Prolonged standing and walking may be on uneven surfaces or unstable ground, in remote, steep, rugged, mountainous areas with unimproved dirt roads and trails. Situations may occur where prolonged sitting, driving, walking, or waiting is required. Evening, weekend, and/or holiday work will be required. Travel required for academy training.

The Washoe Tribe of Nevada & California requires a background check of each new hire for employment purposes. Therefore, all conditionally offered positions will be subject to the following:

  • Negative alcohol and drug screen
  • Meet requirements of Public Law 101-630
  • Obtain or possess a valid driver’s license for either the state of Nevada or California within 30 days

· Must be insurable under the Washoe Tribe’s driving policy

· Preference will be given to qualified Native American Indians.