DEFINITION
Police Officer Trainee is an entry-level, non-sworn training position in the Police Department. Incumbents are assigned to the POST Basic Academy and must satisfactorily pass all of the requirements that lead to the possession of the Basic Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Academy Certificate before becoming candidates for the sworn position of Police Officer I. Assignment to this classification is temporary.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Under the direct and/or general supervision of Police Academy staff (e.g., Recruit Training Officer, Academy Instructor, etc.), Field Training Officer, and/or Police Sergeant. Exercises no supervision.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES – (Incumbents may perform any combination of the essential functions shown below (E). This description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge or abilities associated with the classification but are intended to accurately reflect the principle job elements).

• Trains in a classroom and/or field setting to learn to perform the normal functions that are consistent with a California peace officer and specifically the school police authority as authorized in section 830.32 of the California Penal Code, and 39670 et seq. of the Education code. (E)
• Responsible for completing the POST Basic Academy training program to include studying, reading/writing, testing, physical fitness/agility/arrest and control exercises and testing. (E)
• As a trainee with a training officer, may respond to alarms and other calls for service. (E)
• Performs a variety of non-complex criminal investigations and protective service duties in a training setting.
• Attend a police academy to prepare for the position of Police Officer I. (E)
• Attend classes and labs.
• Complete coursework and take tests.
• Deliver emergency and non-emergency messages.
• Maintain notes and basic records of work performed.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• English usage, spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
• General office practices and the operation of standard office equipment, including a computer.

Ability to:

• Read and write in English at the 12th grade level.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Follow oral and written directions.
• Interact and communicate with juveniles and adults in a variety of settings.
• Observe, assimilate, remember, and recall pertinent facts and details.
• Learn to read maps and mapped information.
• Learn the principles, practices, procedures, laws and ordinances, terminology, and operation of equipment used in law enforcement, crime prevention, and investigation.

Education, Training and Experience:

• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED certificate received from a recognized accrediting association.
• Must be at least 20 years of age at the time of application and 21 years of age by time of appointment.
• Must be a citizen of the United States or a permanent alien who has applied for citizenship prior to applying for the position of Police Officer Trainee
• Must successfully complete a background investigation, which shall include a psychological examination and fingerprint clearance.
• Must be able to pass a physical examination, which includes a drug screen.

Licenses/Certificates:

• Possession of valid California Driver’s License.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and various police equipment.
• Hearing and speaking to exchange information.
• Reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally.
• Walking and running over rough or uneven surfaces.
• Climbing stairs, fences, hills and other slopes.
• Bending at the waist, kneeling or crouching.
• Lifting, carrying, pushing or pulling heavy objects or individuals as assigned by the position.
• Physical agility and stamina.
• Sitting for extended periods of time.

HAZARDS:

• Contact with dissatisfied or abusive individuals.
• Potential physical hazards involved in intervening in fights and other anti-social, illegal and violent behavior.
• Driving a vehicle during adverse weather conditions.

SALARY PLACEMENT:
Operating Engineers Local Union #3
Police Unit Salary Schedule
Range 39
12 month work year
Board Approval: 10/06/15
OELU#3 Police Unit salary re-alignment effective 07/01/19