FullTime Police Officers

The City of Vacaville is looking for motivated, community-minded individuals ready to start a meaningful career in law enforcement with the Vacaville Police Department as Police Officer Trainees. This is your entry point into a long-term career in public safety and community engagement with the chance to make a real impact.

Police Officer Trainee Recruitment

THIS RECRUITMENT IS FOR ENTRY-LEVEL POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE CANDIDATES ONLY.

About the Department

The Vacaville Police Department is committed to delivering exceptional law enforcement services to our diverse and growing community. With over 175 full-time employees, including 116 sworn positions, we offer opportunities across Patrol, K-9, Investigations, Narcotics, Crime Suppression, Tactical Operations, Traffic Enforcement and Family Services. At the Vacaville Police Department, we are driven by integrity, professionalism, teamwork and strong connections with the community we serve.

Program Overview

As a Police Officer Trainee, you will attend a six-month POST-certified Police Academy beginning early December 2026, where you will receive comprehensive training in modern policing. Upon successful completion of the academy, you will be sworn in and promoted to Police Officer - Academy Graduate and begin your career serving the Vacaville Community.

Salary Steps

Police Officer Trainee (attending the Police Academy): $71,916/year

Police Officer (Academy Graduate): $99,903/year

Police Officer (upon successful completion of FTO program): $114,287 - $138,835/year

After graduating from the academy, newly sworn Police Officers spend approximately 10 weeks of training under the direction of experienced Field Training Officers (FTOs). This hands‑on phase is designed to build confidence, sharpen skills and create a smooth transition into independent patrol work.

Responsibilities

Once training is complete, officers step into a dynamic role serving the community—patrolling assigned areas, responding to calls for service, conducting investigations, enforcing traffic laws and taking proactive steps to keep Vacaville safe. Core responsibilities also include compiling accurate police reports, testifying in court proceedings and performing a wide range of law enforcement duties with integrity and professionalism.

This recruitment will create an eligibility list that will be used to fill future vacancies over the next 12‑month period.

Education

Equivalent to graduation from high school plus completion of fifteen (15) semester units from an accredited college or university. Military service and relevant training may also be considered. An AA/AS degree with major coursework in police science or related field is desirable.

Experience

Some public contact work experience is required. Community organization or law enforcement experience is desirable.

License or Certificate

Incumbents must possess a valid California Class C Driver's License and a satisfactory driving record as conditions of initial and continued employment. Incumbents must successfully complete the certified POST Basic Academy course of instruction as a condition of continued employment.

Other Requirements

Must be at least 21 years of age.

Must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.

T‑Score of at least 45 on the POST Entry‑Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) within 12 months prior to application submittal. Possession of an AA/AS degree or equivalent waives the PELLETB requirement.

Must be able to successfully complete a thorough background investigation and meet the 15 job dimensions as recommended by POST.

Spanish bilingual skills are highly desirable.

Candidates will be required to undergo a thorough background investigation, a CVSA exam, a complete medical exam, a psychological exam, and a drug screening.

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