Police Officer Trainee

Lompoc, CA
Lompoc Police Department

Salary: $4,762.35 – $5,788.71 Monthly.

Position Summary:

Under close supervision, to participate in a basic law enforcement training program approved by the California Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.); and to do other work as required.

The class of Police Officer Trainee represents the training level class in the law enforcement series. Incumbents remain in probationary status for the dura­tion of such employment and must successfully complete the basic Post Academy to qualify for status as a Police Officer. Incumbency in this class shall not be considered toward the probationary period required for the classification of Police Officer. Positions in this class are distinguished from Police Officer in that the Police Officer Trainee is a non-sworn class which has no peace officer powers and shall exercise no peace officer powers. Failure to success­fully complete the basic P.O.S.T. Academy is grounds for automatic rejection from this class.

Essential Functions:

  • Receives instructions in the interpretation and application of laws contained in various state codes and local ordinances, e.g. Penal, Vehicle, Welfare, Institutions Code as well as Health and Safety Codes;
  • Receives instruc­tions in the basic criminal and traffic accident investigation procedures;
  • Learns techniques, including crime scene preservation, witness interviewing and evidence collection, participates in a firearms training course which deals with safety, care and use of small arms, as well as department issued weapons;
  • Receives classroom instruction and participates in field training exercises covering patrol procedures, radio and vehicle operation and traffic control;
  • Receives training in civil procedures as well as custodial responsibilities;
  • Performs other work as required.

Requirements:

  • Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver’s License.
  • High School diploma or GED and any combination of training, education and experience which demonstrates an ability to perform the duties of the position.
  • Basic English composition, grammar and spelling; and basic math.
  • Citizen of the United States or permanent resident alien who is eligible and has applied for citizenship.
  • Must have no felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions involving moral tur­pitude.
  • Must meet legal age requirements (minimum of 18 years of age).
  • Must qualify in background and psychological examination.