Police Academy Trainee

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Police Academy Trainee is an entry-level, non-sworn position for individuals preparing to become sworn police officers with the Harvard University Police Department. Incumbents are sponsored by HUPD to attend and successfully complete the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) Recruit Officer Course (ROC) at an MPTC authorized police academy, and to obtain certification from the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission. Under close supervision, the Trainee participates in and completes all academy training requirements and department pre- and post-academy training. Upon successful completion of the academy, meeting all MPTC standards, POST certification requirements, and HUPD/Harvard University standards, the Trainee may be appointed as a sworn Police Officer, subject to available positions and satisfactory performance.

Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age by the start date of the police academy (or by date specified by the academy or HUPD policy).
• United States citizen.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license (Massachusetts preferred or ability to obtain MA license prior to appointment).
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Massachusetts License to Carry Firearms (LTC) in accordance with state law and University/department policy.
• Ability to work any shift (days, evenings, nights), weekends, holidays, and mandatory overtime, as required.
• Sponsorship/employment by HUPD.
• Successful completion of all pre-admission physical fitness, medical, and psychological screening required by MPTC and the academy.
• Successful completion of any required entrance examination(s), interviews, and background review as required by MPTC or the hosting academy.
• Ability and commitment to complete approximately 800 hours of academy curriculum in accordance with M.G.L. c. 41 §96B and MPTC standards.
• Successful completion of an MPTC-approved basic training program (e.g., Recruit Officer Course).
• No disqualifying criminal convictions or prior POST decertifications or revocations in Massachusetts or any other jurisdiction.
• Demonstrated good moral character and fitness for employment as determined by a comprehensive background investigation and other screening tools.
• Commitment to complying with ongoing training and recertification requirements established by POST.
• Successful completion of a comprehensive background investigation, which may include but is not limited to: Criminal history check (state and national), Driving record, Verification of prior employment, education, and military service (if applicable), Review of social media and online presence as permitted by law and policy, Personal and professional reference checks.
• Successful completion of pre-employment medical examination, psychological evaluation, and drug/alcohol screening, as required by Harvard University and HUPD policy.
• Must meet and maintain Harvard University’s standards of conduct and ethics, including strict confidentiality, integrity, and adherence to University policies on discrimination, harassment, conflict of interest, and use of information systems.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and to support Harvard’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
• Strong interest in a career in professional, community-oriented policing within a campus environment.
• Ability to learn and apply Massachusetts criminal law, motor vehicle law, and relevant university regulations and policies.
• Ability to maintain self-discipline, composure, and sound judgment in high-stress, rapidly evolving, and sometimes life-threatening situations.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; ability to document incidents and training accurately and clearly.
• Ability to accept and respond constructively to feedback and instruction from academy staff, field training officers, and HUPD supervisors.
• Physical ability to meet and maintain MPTC and department physical fitness standards, including running, defensive tactics, lifting, and other tasks inherent to police work.
• Demonstrated integrity, honesty, and reliability.

Nice To Haves

• An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social/behavioral sciences, or a related field is strongly preferred and may be required or prioritized consistent with HUPD/Harvard hiring standards.

Responsibilities

• Attend, participate in, and successfully complete the MPTC Recruit Officer Course at an MPTC authorized academy, including classroom instruction, practical skills, scenario-based training, firearms training, and physical fitness.
• Meet or exceed all training standards, testing benchmarks, and performance evaluations required by MPTC and the hosting academy, including academic, firearms, defensive tactics, emergency driving, and physical fitness standards.
• Comply with all academy rules, regulations, policies, and codes of conduct.
• Participate in HUPD pre-academy orientation and post-academy Field Training Officer (FTO) program, as directed.
• Satisfy all baseline requirements for initial certification as a law enforcement officer by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, including successful completion of an approved basic training program and meeting standards of good moral character and fitness for employment.
• Maintain eligibility for POST certification throughout the academy and onboarding process, including adherence to all ethical, legal, and professional standards.
• Represent Harvard University and HUPD professionally, demonstrating courtesy, integrity, discretion, and respect for the diverse community served.
• Participate in additional in-service, remedial, or specialized training as assigned.
• Maintain required documentation, logs, and reports related to training, testing, and certifications.
• Comply with all HUPD policies, Harvard University policies, and applicable local, state, and federal laws.
• Perform related duties as assigned or required to support department operations and public safety initiatives.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED