Police Trainee

Police Trainee – Santa Maria, California

Physical Agility/PELLETB Testing:
Monthly. Interview Date: TBD. Anticipated

Start Date:

Approx. 4-5 weeks before academy start date. Applicants for this Police Trainee recruitment may attend the early Spring 2025 or Fall 2025 academy at the Allan Hancock College Lompoc Campus.

* THIS RECRUITMENT IS FOR ALL CANDIDATES WHO HAVE NOT YET BEEN TO A BASIC CA LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY*

Due upon application:

• Cover letter
• Résumé
• PELLETB Score (If you do not have a current PELLETB score of 42 or better, please attach a simple word doc requesting an opportunity to test.)

• Attends P.O.S.T. certified police academy, participating in and successfully passing all mandated classes designated to develop awareness and understanding of the functions and responsibilities of Police Officers.
• Academy training may include:
  • Instruction on proper handling and firing of firearms.
  • Review of radio codes and applicable Penal Code, Vehicle Code and other statutory code sections.
  • Overview of the court system.
  • Writing and editing police reports.
  • Observing law enforcement activities such as maintenance of order, crime prevention, and protection of citizens and property.
  • Review of rules, regulations, and procedures.
  • Developing and maintaining a high level of physical fitness.
  • Learning and demonstrating competence in arrest and control techniques.
• Scope of assigned area will depend on departmental structure and is at the discretion of the department director.
• Upholds the values of the organization and has strong customer service orientation.
• Performs other related projects and duties as assigned.
• Demonstrates regular, reliable and punctual attendance.

Education:

Graduation from high school or a G.E.D.

Experience:

Experience in a law enforcement environment desirable.

OR any combination of education, training and/or work experience to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities to meet the above minimum requirements.

Knowledge of:
Basic English composition, grammar, and spelling; the English language; after completion of the academy, knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, procedures, techniques, and equipment; basic knowledge of applicable laws and ordinances; and principles and practices of exemplary customer service.

Ability to:
Acquire knowledge to pass the P.O.S.T. certified police academy; write clearly, accurately, concisely, legibly, and with correct English grammatical construction and spelling; read and interpret technical documents in English; communicate effectively in both oral and written form; observe, assimilate, remember, record, and recall pertinent facts and details; read maps and mapped information; apply selected knowledge (i.e., laws, statutes, court decisions, department policies, criminal investigation theories, etc.)

in collecting, organizing, and analyzing a variety of information in order to decide on an appropriate and reasonable course of action; take a proactive approach to problem solving; analyze problems and have the potential to rationally and calmly take effective action in emergency and stressful situations; plan and effectively present material orally to diverse groups; deal courteously and appropriately with the public;

establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work; develop skill in the use of firearms; effectively utilize required equipment; undergo and maintain the appropriate physical conditioning; use word processing and computer software highly desirable; learn the organization, procedures, and operating details of the City department to which assigned; attend work, as scheduled, on a regular basis, to effectively perform the position's required duties and responsibilities, collaborate with a variety of diverse interest groups in reaching a consensus for the betterment of the community;

demonstrate an awareness and appreciation of the cultural diversity of the community, and speak Spanish highly desirable.

License:
Possession of a valid and appropriate California Driver License. Must have and maintain a satisfactory driving record and be insurable to operate City vehicles.

Special Requirements:
Minimum age of 21 years upon graduation. Weight must be in proportion to height. Vision must be within P.O.S.T. standards and normal color and depth perception. Successful completion of a background investigation, polygraph, psychological examination, physical agility test, and medical examination which includes a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:
Police car; police radio; in-car camera, radar gun; handgun and other weapons as required; baton;
Taser, handcuffs; flashlight, breathalyzer; first aid equipment;
Mobile Data Terminal (MDT); computers and related software.

• You may not enter or start the academy unless you are on a FULL DUTY status.
• You cannot start the academy on a  light duty  status.
• You cannot start the…