1

Police Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Cadet

Asheville, NC ยท On-site

$23.04/hr

This position performs routine law enforcement work as a trainee of the City Police Department. Work includes patrolling the City in an official vehicle, on bicycle, or on foot to deter crime or ...

POLICE OFFICER

Asheville, NC ยท On-site

$24.55 - $36.83/hr

Police Trainee: $47,915.10 * Police Officer: $50,309.74 - $75,464.74 * Senior Police Officer I / Detective I: $52,825.23 - $79,237.86 * Senior Police Officer II / Detective II: Police Detective: $55 ...

Supplemental Information Permanent, full-time employees of the State of West Virginia, receive a wide variety of financial and personal job benefits. Specific information about benefits is available ...

Police Officer Recruit

Covina, CA ยท On-site

$83K - $109K/yr

The Police Recruit 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 ...

Police Officer Recruit

Covina, CA ยท On-site

$83K - $109K/yr

The Police Recruit 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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Police Trainee information

See salary details

$21.5K

$49.3K

$71K

How much do police trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for police trainee in the United States is $49,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $58,500.00 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 communication or during training exercises. It may also be part of specific hand signals or codes used within law enforcement to convey messages discreetly. Understanding such gestures is part of training in police communication protocols and situational awareness.

What actor was a cop in real life?

Several actors who portrayed police officers in films or TV shows have had real-life law enforcement experience. Notably, actor and former police officer Fred Williamson served as a police officer before his acting career, and actor and former police officer Steve Buscemi worked as a firefighter and has been involved in law enforcement-related projects. Such backgrounds can add authenticity to their portrayals of police roles.

What do police officer trainees do?

Police officer trainees participate in training programs that include classroom instruction, physical fitness, and practical exercises to learn law enforcement procedures, laws, and community policing skills. They often observe experienced officers, complete written exams, and develop skills in areas such as report writing, communication, and the use of police equipment. Trainees must pass assessments and demonstrate proficiency before becoming full officers.

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.

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.
More about Police Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Police Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Police Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs? The most popular types of Police jobs are:
What states have the most Police Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Police Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,311 per year, or $23.7 per hour.
Police Officer (Lateral/Pre-Trained)

Police Officer (Lateral/Pre-Trained)

City of South Lake Tahoe

South Lake Tahoe, CA โ€ข On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description The City of South Lake Tahoe is seeking dedicated, community-oriented individuals to join our Police Department as full-time Police Officers. This is an exciting opportunity to serve in a dynamic, mountain resort community where public safety and community engagement are top priorities. Our officers play a critical role in protecting life and property, preventing crime, and building trust through strong community partnerships.

We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, professional development opportunities, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in one of California's most scenic and vibrant environments. If you are committed to integrity, service, and excellence, we invite you to apply and be a part of our team. The first review of applications will take place on October 9, 2025.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received thereafter. Incentive pays includes: POST Certificate (Int/Adv) to a max of 5% Degree pay to a max of 7% Longevity up to 10% Detective Pay 5% ICI Certificate 5% Additional Benefits include: Patrol works a compressed work week of 3/12 CalPERS varies with Classic or PEPRA member Medical/Dental/Vision Tuition reimbursement For additional information on benefits and compensation, please refer to the Police Officers' Association MOU The City of South Lake Tahoe is an Equal Opportunity Employer and supports workforce diversity. To continue to provide the best service to our community, we are looking for candidates who are compassionate, professional, accountable, and possess a passion for Public Service.

Candidates who are fluent in Spanish are highly desired. Copies of the following applicable required documents must be attached online to your online application before submission of your online application (failure to attach applicable required listed documents will result in disqualification): 1) Proof of current enrollment in a full time or extended CA basic POST Police Academy with an anticipated graduation date within 6 months of the date of your application. 2) CA Basic P.O.S.T

Certificate OR a Graduation Certificate from a P.O.S.T accredited Peace Officer Basic Law Enforcement Academy, that will still be "Active" at the time of hire. 3) Basic P.O.S.T. Certificate from another State and proof of current enrollment in the CA Basic P.O.S.T

Academy Course Waiver Process (email/letter from CA POST will suffice). Minimum qualifications for current openings include the following- California Lateral Police Officers- Candidates who are, or who have been, employed as a full time law enforcement officer for at least one (1) year with a California law enforcement agency and who still possess a valid, active P.O.S.T Basic Certificate. Out-Of-State Lateral Police Officers-Candidates who are currently employed as a full time law enforcement officer having at least one (1) year tenure with an out-of-state law enforcement agency (agency other than a California agency), and having successfully completed an out-of-state P.O.S.T basic academy or a California P.O.S.T basic academy, and, have completed or at the time of application for this recruitment have enrolled in a California P.O.S.T Waiver Course Process

California Pre-Trained- Candidates who have successfully completed and graduated from a P.O.S.T. certified Basic Course and possess a valid CA POST Academy Certificate. Persons currently attending a full time or extended California Basic POST Police Academy scheduled to graduate within 6 months of the date of application may apply

Applicants attending an academy at time of application will only be eligible for hire as a "Lateral/Pre-trained" Police Officer after successful completion of the Police academy and award of Basic Academy training certificate. To view the full job description and duties, please click here. Typical Qualifications Education and Experience Guidelines - Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Education/Training/Experience/P.O.S.T.: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. UNTRAINED - Persons selected from this group will be appointed as a Police Trainee. Upon satisfactory completion of a P.O.S.T

required Police Basic Course, the police trainee will be appointed to the position of Police Officer while on probation for 18 months. PRE-TRAINED - Successful completion and graduation from a P.O.S.T. certified Basic Course or be deemed by P.O.S.T

to have satisfactorily completed a California P.O.S.T. equivalent training course and must be appointed as a peace officer within three (3) years from the completion date of the basic course. Should the applicant have a three (3) year or longer break from the basic course completion date, the applicant must successfully complete the basic course waiver process as defined by P.O.S.T

LATERAL - Current or previous employment within the past three (3) years as a full-time California peace officer and satisfactory completion of P.O.S.T. Basic Course requirements. Should the applicant have a three (3) year or longer employment break as a California peace officer, the applicant must successfully complete the basic course waiver process as defined by P.O

S. T. License or Certificate: Possession of a valid California or Nevada driver's license.

Supplemental Information The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Environment: Standard office setting with some travel to various locations to attend meetings or respond to emergency scenes, disasters, or critical incidents; the employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts; occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions and wet and/or humid conditions; occasionally works in high, precarious places; occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, extreme cold, extreme heat, risk of electrical shock, risk of radiation, and vibration; the noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; however, the noise level is occasionally very loud due to sirens, etc; wear protective apparel including goggles, face protector, aprons, safety shoes, and self contained breathing apparatus; incumbents may be required to work extended hours including evenings and weekends and may be required to travel outside City boundaries to attend meetings.

Physical: Primary functions require sufficient physical ability to work in an office setting; walk, stand, or sit for prolonged periods of time; occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; occasionally climb and balance; regularly push, pull, lift, and/or carry light to moderate weights; frequently lift and/or move moderate to heavy weights; occasionally lift and/or move heavy weights; operate office equipment including use of computer keyboard; requires a sense of touch, finger dexterity, and gripping with hands and fingers; ability to speak and hear to exchange information; ability to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations; ability to operate and use specialized vehicles and equipment. Vision: See within the normal range of vision with or without correction; specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Hearing: Hear in the normal audio range with or without correction.

FLSA Designation: Exempt Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer The City of South Lake Tahoe is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All employment actions shall be administered regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, physical or mental disability or medical condition, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, pregnancy, political affiliation, veterans' status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Disaster Service Worker All full-time, permanent City employees are required to provide services as Disaster Service Workers in the event of an emergency/disaster.