Police Officer Trainee (Non-Certified)

Vanderbilt University • Nashville, TN

30d

About The Position

The Police Officer Non-Certified is an entry-level Police Officer trainee position for individuals seeking a career in law enforcement. Trainees are hired with the intent of attending and completing a P.O.S.T. approved police academy. Upon graduation and meeting all requirements, trainees will assume the role of Police Officer - Certified role. This role is ideal for candidates who demonstrate integrity, discipline, and a strong commitment to public service and community safety. About the Work Unit : Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is led by the Office of the Chief of Police in the Division of Administration. VUPS is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals united by a shared commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all in the Vanderbilt community, as well as the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Organized into several specialized units, our department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff—all working collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of community-based policing. Key Functions and Expected Performance: Successfully complete all police academy phases, including academic coursework, physical training, firearms qualification, scenario-based exercises, and required departmental field training. Learn and effectively apply all relevant laws, regulations, and departmental policies. Demonstrate and maintain proficiency in defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, report writing, and professional communication. While awaiting academy attendance, perform non-sworn, full-time assignments as needed across various departmental areas. Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate personal accountability, and represent the agency with professionalism at all times. Maintain peak physical fitness and meet all required performance benchmarks for academy entry and law enforcement duties.

Requirements

• A bachelor's Degree is required, though an equivalent combination of education and directly related experience may be considered.
• Must be 21 years of age or older.
• Acceptance into an accredited, approved Police Academy is required.
• Must meet all requirements for P.O.S.T. certification in Tennessee, including completing basic recruit training within the first nine (9) months of employment.
• Possession of a special police commission from the Chief Law Enforcement official in Metropolitan Nashville is required.
• Must meet the physical agility standards of the training division prior to academy attendance.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure and diverse environments.
• Commitment to community engagement and public safety.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving law enforcement practices.
• Must be able to stand for long periods, walk, climb, and lift.
• Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming
• Pass a thorough background investigation that demonstrates – Good moral character, Good driving record, and No prior criminal convictions that would prohibit the individual from meeting the standards set forth by the State of Tennessee to become a law enforcement officer.
• Pass a medical examination, including vision screening and drug testing; must obtain immunizations and medical tests as required to be able to work in patient care and high-risk areas.
• Pass a Psychological Evaluation.
• Required to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and in inclement weather.
• May be confined to a patrol car for an entire shift.
• May be exposed to hazardous materials, infectious disease, bloodborne pathogens, steam, car battery acid, loud noises, smoke, and fire (must be able to use precautionary equipment).
• Required to be knowledgeable and able to correctly use a TB Mask and other precautionary equipment.

Nice To Haves

• 24 months of VUPS experience in a non-sworn departmental role.

Responsibilities

• Successfully complete all police academy phases, including academic coursework, physical training, firearms qualification, scenario-based exercises, and required departmental field training.
• Learn and effectively apply all relevant laws, regulations, and departmental policies.
• Demonstrate and maintain proficiency in defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, report writing, and professional communication.
• While awaiting academy attendance, perform non-sworn, full-time assignments as needed across various departmental areas.
• Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate personal accountability, and represent the agency with professionalism at all times.
• Maintain peak physical fitness and meet all required performance benchmarks for academy entry and law enforcement duties.
• Must successfully complete annual P.O.S.T.-approved in-service training (at least 40 hours).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees