Police Officer Trainee

at  City of Santa Monica

JOIN SANTA MONICA PD - WE HIRE FOR CHARACTER & TRAIN FOR SKILL

Join one of the highest-paid police departments in California, where competitive compensation is just the beginning. At SMPD, you’ll experience the excitement of working in a world-class destination, Santa Monica’s beaches, iconic pier, and vibrant community make it a place like no other. Beyond the pay, you’ll find a truly rewarding career where purpose, community impact, and personal growth are our priorities. With a supportive team culture and numerous career development pathways, SMPD offers opportunities to advance and diversify your skills across a wide range of assignments. Our focus on well-being, ongoing training, and a balanced work environment ensures you’ll be both challenged and supported as you make a positive difference in Santa Monica.
This non-sworn classification participates in a formal academic and physical police training program and is expected to successfully complete the basic training courses as prescribed by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.). During the 22-weeks academy, the salary is $7,575 per month. Upon successful completion of the academy, the candidate will advance to the classification of Police Officer and will serve a one-year probationary period.

EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE PAY (APPLIES TO OVERTIME)

• 6% of base for Intermediate P.O.S.T. Certificate or AA/AS
• 12.8% of base Advance P.O.S.T. Certificate or BA/BS

KNOWLEDGE OF:

Grammar and composition
Effective customer service techniques

SKILL IN:

Reading, writing, and communicating at an appropriate level
Dealing with a variety of culturally sensitive issues

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications:
Education: Graduation from high school or the equivalent.
Experience: Military experience and/or related public contact experience is desirable.
Licenses and Certificates:
Possession of a valid Class C driver license. Must be able to obtain a regular Basic California P.O.S.T. Certificate within 18 months from date of hire.
Other Requirements:
Police Officer Trainees must be 20 years and 6 months of age at time of appointment.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent resident aliens who are eligible for and have applied for U.S. citizenship. Non-citizens must obtain citizenship within three (3) years from date of application.
Upon hire, police officers must be non-users of tobacco products.
Applicants for Police Officer Trainee must pass a background investigation and must not have been convicted of a misdemeanor involving domestic violence or a felony.
Effective May 27, 2021, all incoming Santa Monica Police Officer Trainees must maintain California residency and live within a 95-mile radius from the Santa Monica Police Department.

Participates in a rigorous academic and physical training program mandated by P.O.S.T.
Participates in firearm training and defensive tactics.
Learns basic principles of patrol procedures and criminal investigation.
Drives a variety of police vehicles under various training conditions.
Accompanies sworn police officers on ride-alongs as an observer.
Analyzes recurring patrol and specialized problems/hazards in collaboration with supervisors, peers, and service clientele. Participates in developing long-term resolutions to law enforcement related problems and issues.
Responds to multiple calls, major traffic accidents, and other emergencies.
Completes reports in a timely manner.
Performs a variety of clerical support duties including, but not limited to, typing, filing, photocopying, and assisting the public on the telephone or in person.
Performs other duties, as assigned.