Police Officer Trainee

City of Hayward•Hayward, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This is a trainee-level civilian position that transitions into the Police Officer classification. The Police Officer Trainee is employed before and during enrollment in a Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)-certified police academy, which lasts approximately six months. After successfully completing the academy, and when a Police Officer position is available, trainees are sworn in and appointed as Police Officers. The trainee position is represented by SEIU Local 1021 and receives benefits corresponding to civilian employees. As a trainee, the employee attends a basic POST-certified police academy and receives academy and field training to prepare for police work. After appointment as a Police Officer, duties may include patrol, traffic control, criminal and juvenile investigations, and radio communication. The role may involve operating a patrol car or motorcycle, making arrests and issuing citations, writing reports, serving warrants, testifying in court, and providing information to the public. Applicants do not need prior law enforcement experience or POST-certified academy training. The selection process includes application review, a pre-background questionnaire, job-related written and physical testing, and a ranked eligible list. Candidates considered for hire undergo a background investigation that includes employment and criminal history reviews, references, credit history, polygraph, medical and psychological examinations, and drug testing. Candidates must meet department medical, physical, and psychological standards.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver's License.
No felony convictions.
Legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law.
At least 21 years of age at the time of appointment.
Vision in each eye correctable to at least 20/30.
Pass a background investigation and polygraph examination.
Meet all Department medical, physical, and psychological standards.
Successfully complete academy requirements.
Ability to observe accurately and remember names, faces, numbers, incidents, and locations.
Ability to think and act quickly in emergencies and assess situations and people accurately.
Ability to understand and interpret laws and regulations.
Ability to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written reports.
Ability to become proficient in self-defense techniques and the care and use of firearms.
Ability to follow oral and written instructions and deal courteously and effectively with the public.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
Passing Physical Agility Test or Work Sample Test Battery scores dated within the 12 months before the application date may be submitted in lieu of taking the PAT on the scheduled exam date.
Eligible PELLETB waivers from outside agencies or the National Testing Network are accepted; the City requires a T-Score of 46 or higher.

Responsibilities

Attend a basic POST-certified police academy covering the criminal justice system, laws, police procedures, law enforcement techniques, first aid, and physical fitness.
Receive training to develop an understanding of Police Department functions, Police Officer responsibilities, and how those responsibilities relate to field operations.
Complete academy and field training to become a Police Officer.
Upon appointment as a Police Officer, potentially perform assignments such as patrol, traffic control, criminal and juvenile investigations, and radio communication.
As a Police Officer, potentially operate a patrol car or motorcycle, arrest and cite law violators, write reports, serve warrants, testify in court, and provide information to the public.

Benefits

Vacation: 80 hours minimum.
15.5 paid holidays.
Employer contribution toward health, dental, and vision coverage.
CalPERS defined-benefit retirement plan; the applicable formula depends on membership category.
Life and disability insurance and paid leave.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Tuition reimbursement.
Health and wellness reimbursement.
Professional development reimbursement.
457 Deferred Compensation Plan (employee paid).
Some employee groups may receive a 3-day work week.