Police Officer Trainee

Position Overview The Santa Cruz Police Department is recruiting Police Officer Trainee candidates. Trainees attend an approved Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) basic police academy and receive training in the technical knowledge, skills, and physical capabilities required to perform police service. Upon successful completion of the academy, Trainees become sworn police officers. Responsibilities Attend the POST basic police academy and complete all required coursework. Perform related duties as assigned by the department or academy staff. Assist in prevention, collect information and data, and transport people and materials as needed. Serve in various assigned roles including patrol, traffic, parks, community services, investigation, and undercover tasks. Be available for rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays. Qualifications High school graduation or tested equivalent. At least 20½ years old at time of testing; 21 years old at time of appointment to police officer. Legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law. Valid California Class C driver’s license with a safe driving record. Understanding of State and local laws; ability to follow written and oral instructions. Ability to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations; maintain composure and clear communication. Strong written and oral communication skills suitable for law‑enforcement reporting. Capacity to learn and operate firearms safely and skillfully. Comprehension of complex information through interview, observation, and interrogation. Adaptability to changing police processes and use of computer technology. Ability to develop effective working relationships with community members. Psychological suitability for police work (determined by an approved psychological exam). Ability to pass a comprehensive background investigation including polygraph, credit history, driving record, and criminal activity. Required Tests POST PELLETB: T‑score 46.0 or higher. POST Physical Agility Test (WSTB): Score of 384 or higher and a 15‑minute maximum time for the 1½‑mile run. Salary & Benefits Police Officer Trainee salary: $6,952 per month. Sworn Police Officer starting salary: $8,248 per month. Hiring bonus: Total of $10,000 paid in installments upon completion of the Field Training Officer program and subsequent milestones. Educational bonus for an AA or AS degree: $2,500; for a BA or BS degree: $5,000 (higher bonus applies). Tuition reimbursement: Up to $500 per fiscal year for approved college or university courses, subject to prior approval. Bilingual pay: 5% differential of base pay per month for conversant language speakers, subject to approval. Employee referral incentives for those referred by a City of Santa Cruz employee. Application Process Submit an online application, accompanied by a resume, supplemental responses, and both POST PELLETB and WSTB test results. Application screening will assess minimum qualifications and test scores. Qualified candidates will be requested to complete a Personal History Statement within 14 days of notification. Successful candidates will progress to an oral interview panel, background investigation, polygraph examination, interview with the Chief of Police, psychological examination, and medical examination. Final selection is based on test scores, interview performance, and overall background review. Equal Opportunity Employment The Santa Cruz Police Department is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. #J-18808-Ljbffr