Police Officer Trainee (ICPOET Program)

Salary: $27.65 Hourly

Closing Date: 4/30/2026

Position Summary:

The Police Officer Trainee program is designed to bring non-traditional candidates into the field of law enforcement, thereby removing barriers for those who wish to make a career change. Individuals looking for a new career path and a way to make a difference in our community are encouraged to apply.

Essential Functions:

• Model and contribute to a positive work environment, open and honest communication, engagement, and safety.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with employees and the public, including but not limited to those of diverse racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Work cooperatively as a member of a team; develop and maintain effective working relationships with diverse coworkers and community members; consistently bring a high level of self-awareness and empathy to all personal interactions.
• Embrace the City of Owatonna’s values and contribute toward the stated purpose and goals by being creative, innovative, continuously learning, and communicating clearly.
• Attend and actively participate in the identified education and skills program.
• Complete all course work associated with the program.
• Maintain appropriate physical conditioning to ensure successful completion of the skills training component.
• Upon completion of training program, successfully attain POST licensure eligibility.
• Commitment to remain employed as a licensed peace officer for the City of Owatonna for a minimum of three years after obtaining license.
• Attend Owatonna Police Department monthly check-in meetings.
• Conditional employment offers will be extended to police trainees for the period of time required to complete the aforementioned POST-approved training/skills program.
• Successful completion of the program may result in a change in employment status to probationary Patrol Officer.

Requirements:

• No previous police experience is required.
• Must have a 2-year or 4-year degree in any discipline (other than law enforcement) from a regionally accredited college or university as of application deadline.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Must submit to a thorough background investigation conducted by the agency and meet minimum expectations – 6700.0700 – MN Rules Part.
• Must NOT have completed a MN Skills program or taken the MN POST or reciprocity exam.