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Police Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Duke University

POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE

Durham, NC · On-site

$25.26 - $29.43/hr

Police Officer Trainee Police Officer Be You. At Duke, we embrace diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and the unique strengths each team member brings to our community. As a Police Officer ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

UNC-Chapel Hill

Police Officer

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

Lateral hires who are already certified NC law enforcement officers and not first hired as a Police Officer Trainee may be assigned this classification conditional on successful completion of the ...

All JobsPolice JobsPolice Trainee JobsPolice Trainee Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Police Trainee information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$20.8K

$47.7K

$68.6K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in Raleigh, NC is $47,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,663.00 and $56,544.00 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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Police jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Police Trainee job openings:
Police Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,663 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE

POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

$25.26 - $29.43/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.
 
Job Title: Police Officer Trainee Police Officer
  Be You.
At Duke, we embrace diverse perspectives, lived experiences, and the unique strengths each team member brings to our community. As a Police Officer Trainee, you'll join a mission-driven department dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of Duke's campuses and health system. You'll grow alongside a supportive team as you prepare for a meaningful career in law enforcement serving a diverse academic community.
  Be Bold.
As a Police Officer Trainee, you'll take your first steps toward becoming a fully commissioned Police Officer in North Carolina. Duke will sponsor your Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) while you remain in paid status. This role is ideal for individuals who are committed to public safety, personal integrity, and continuous learning.
  What You'll Do
  • Participate in and complete a North Carolina-certified Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) program.
  • Engage in applicant assessments, physical fitness testing, background investigation, medical and psychological examinations, drug screening, and a polygraph evaluation.
  • Upon completion of BLET and commissioning, serve as a uniformed Police Officer.
  • Patrol University and Health System properties to protect life and property while enforcing federal, state, and local laws.
  • Build positive relationships with members of the Duke community through professional, communityoriented policing practices.
  • Work rotating 12hour shifts upon assignment to the Uniform Patrol Division.
  Choose Duke.   Why Duke?
  • Paid BLET Training: Earn while you learn.
  • Professional Growth: A clear pathway from trainee to Police Officer.
  • Community Impact: Work in a dynamic environment centered on learning, safety, and service.
  • Competitive Pay: Higher pay rate upon completion of training and commissioning.
  What You Bring
Minimum Requirements
 
  • Eligibility for NC Campus Police Certification, including successful completion of BLET.
  • Valid North Carolina driver's license.
  • Minimum age of 20.
  • Corrected vision of at least 20/30 with soft contact lenses; uncorrected vision no worse than 20/200.
 
Preferred Qualifications
 
  • Prior or current law enforcement certification.
  • Completion of a North Carolinacertified BLET program.
  • Associate or bachelor's degree.
  • Previous professional experience as a law enforcement officer.
  Ready to Make a Difference?
Join a team committed to safety, service, and excellence.
Apply today and help advance a secure, supportive, and thriving Duke community.

Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $25.26 to USD $29.43. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.


Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/


Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy- related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: DAAS@duke.edu; phone: 919-668-1267).

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About Duke University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US

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