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Police Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Public Safety Officer

Washington, DC · On-site

$22.63 - $30.16/hr

Provides guidance to security trainees as assigned. * Establishes and maintains a positive and ... The incumbent must possess a District of Columbia Metropolitan Special Police Officer (MSPO ...

Police Trainee information

See Washington salary details

$23.1K

$52.9K

$76.2K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in Washington is $52,944.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,946.00 and $62,809.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Police jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,944 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Introduction

\r\nThe Maryland Department of General Services (DGS) supports State and local government agencies, as well as local non-profit organizations and the citizens of Maryland, by providing facilities management, real estate and surplus property services, as well as security and law enforcement for State buildings. DGS is also responsible for a full spectrum of facilities engineering, design and construction services, almost $1 billion in annual contract administration, and overseeing the State procurement process. Here at DGS, we truly Do Great Service... Consider joining our team! \r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

SLE 0001\r\nSelected candidates will start at $37,237/year. Upon completing the police academy and field training, the candidate will receive SLE 0002 / Step 9, $71,342/year.\r\n

LOCATION OF POSITION

Maryland Capitol Police Department\r\nBaltimore City - 301 W. Preston Street\r\nAnnapolis - 29 St. Johns Street\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

The Maryland Capitol Police Candidate Trainee position is the entry-level law enforcement work within the Maryland Capitol Police. Employees in this class attend a Police Training Academy to learn how to enforce Local, State and Federal Laws and departmental rules and regulations.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification must attend the law enforcement academy and pass the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission and the Maryland Capitol Police.\r\n\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification are considered Emergency Essential personnel and must be willing and be available for duty at all hours. Employees may be required to remain on duty and report for duty at such hours as needed to maintain the continuous operation of this agency. If you are the selected candidate for this position, you will be required to complete a Pre-Employment Physical and substance abuse screening, which will assess your ability to safely perform the essential functions of this position.\r\n

POSITION DUTIES

A Police Officer Trainee is an entry-level law enforcement role focused on learning to enforce laws and ensure public safety. Trainees work under close supervision and may be assigned various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, with potential call-ins and overtime work. This position is classified as emergency essential, requiring duty during emergencies. Work may involve outdoor assignments in different weather conditions. The role progresses as follows:\r\n\r\nTrainee - Learns under close supervision.\r\nOfficer I - Works under close or general supervision\r\nOfficer II - Performs full duties under general supervision.\r\n\r\nEmployees in this classification may be assigned to work on either a rotating or fixed shift basis, including nights, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. They are subject to call to duty in emergencies and may be required to work overtime with little or no notice. Upon completion of the academy training, officers will be assigned to a Division at the discretion of the Police Department.\r\n\r\nThe work of this classification involves frequent walking and standing, as well as operating vehicles and firearms. It also requires exposure to potentially hazardous law enforcement and public safety activities and conditions, such as adverse weather and encounters with armed and dangerous individuals.\r\n\r\nUpon successfully completing the agility test, background investigation, and psychological and medical examination, passers of the physical agility tests will be considered for attendance at the police training academy. The Police Academy is an academic, physical, and practical training program that introduces recruits to a career in law enforcement.\r\n\r\nThe paramilitary academy challenges recruits to develop self-discipline, perform under stressful situations, and focus on teamwork. After graduation from the Police Academy, you will be among the most highly trained police officers in the state and part of a family of motivated and proud law enforcement officers.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or high school equivalency certificate acceptable to the Maryland State Board of Education as described in the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission regulation.\r\nExperience:None.\r\nNote:The above educational requirement is set by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Employees in this classification who have not already done so must successfully complete the Entrance Level Police Training Course required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n2. Employees in this classification will be required to secure a Police Officer certification as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission during the probationary period.\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to possess or obtain a special police commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-209, Annotated Code of Maryland.\r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Selection standards for Police Officer certification are established by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission in accordance with Public Safety Article, Section 3-207, Annotated Code of Maryland. These selection criteria are listed in detail in the Code of Maryland Regulations 12.04.01.04 and include the following:\r\n- U.S. Citizenship\r\n- Must be at least 21 years of age\r\n- Satisfactory background investigation, including a check of criminal history\r\n- Oral interview\r\n- Physical and psychological examinations, truth verification, and drug test (COMAR 12.04.01.04)\r\n- Possession of a driver's license valid in the State of Maryland.\r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in and, therefore, will be required to provide the employer with a phone number where they can be reached.\r\n3. Employees in this classification may be required to bear firearms and to demonstrate practical knowledge and proficiency in the safe use and care of firearms on a periodic basis as required by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commission.\r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

1. Initial Contact - Confirm candidate interest and qualifications.\r\n\r\n2. Fitness Testing - Physical fitness test for police trainee candidates, which consists of the following:\r\n- Push-ups: Complete 19 push-ups within 1 minute.\r\n- Crunches: Complete 28 crunches within 1 minute.\r\n- Supine Stretch (Range of Motion): Reach 1.5 inches beyond your toes while stretching.\r\n- 300-foot Dash: Complete the dash within 80 seconds.\r\n- Climbing Over a Barrier: Test your ability to climb over a barrier.\r\n- Pull or drag a 150 lbs Weight: Pull or drag the weight at least 15 feet.\r\n- Stair Climbing: Traverse up and down two flights of stairs.\r\n\r\n\r\n3. Application Review - Assess candidate-submitted materials.\r\n\r\n\r\n4. Background Check - Investigate candidate suitability.\r\n\r\n5. CVSA Test - Conduct Computer Voice Stress Analysis.\r\n\r\n6. Oral Board Interview - Candidate interviews with a 3-person panel.\r\n\r\n\r\n7. Conditional Offer - Extend a provisional job offer.\r\n\r\n8. Screenings - Psychological test, physical exam, and drug screening.\r\n\r\n\r\n9. Final Offer - Confirm official job offer upon passing screenings.\r\n\r\n\r\n10. Training & Certification - Complete field training (FTO), firearm qualifications, and MPTSC certification.\r\n\r\n\r\nIf all aspects of the process are successfully completed, applicants will be placed on an eligibility list for a period of one year.\r\n\r\nIf an applicant meets the minimum requirements to be considered for the position, they will be scheduled to complete a physical test designed to assess the applicant's fitness level and physical preparedness for the academy.\r\n

BENEFITS

The State of Maryland offers a generous benefits package that includes:\r\n- Tuition reimbursement, if funding is available, for those who qualify\r\n- Free mass transit in Baltimore & Annapolis\r\n- Generous paid leave that increases with years of service\r\n- Paid holidays\r\n- Health coverage with low out-of-pocket costs\r\n- Employee & employer contributory pension plan\r\n\r\nClick on the link below for more information.\r\nSTATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

Contact tammy.vehstedt@maryland.gov or call 410-767-4986 with questions about this recruitment. The online application process is STRONGLY preferred. Apply online at dgs.maryland.gov - Human Resources > Employment > Current Openings. If you are unable to submit your application online, please send your paper application to: Human Resources, Dept. of General Services, 301 W. Preston St., Suite 1311, Baltimore, MD 21201 by the closing date and time. TTY Users: call via Maryland Relay\r\n\r\n\r\nAs an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply. We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time