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POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE
Summary
The Police Trainee/Academy position is an entry-level, non-commissioned role designed to prepare individuals for careers in law enforcement. Under direct supervision, trainees receive classroom instruction and field training in patrol operations, criminal law, traffic enforcement, report writing, defensive tactics, and community policing. Trainees learn to perform basic law enforcement functions, assist with calls for service, and develop the knowledge, skills, and judgment required for independent police work.
Upon successful completion of training and achievement of Missouri P.O.S.T. certification, the Trainee is eligible for appointment as a sworn Police Officer and assumes full law enforcement duties within the department.
Responsibilities
• Receive formal classroom instruction and practical field training in criminal law, traffic enforcement, investigative techniques, use of force, report writing, and community policing.
• Learn and demonstrate proficiency in patrol operations, including observing, identifying, and reporting suspicious or criminal activities.
• Train in the safe operation of police vehicles under emergency and non-emergency conditions.
• Assist with responding to calls for service, including thefts, disturbances, alarms, and traffic accidents, under the direct supervision of a Field Training Officer (FTO) or instructor.
• Observe and participate in interviewing victims, witnesses, and suspects; learn to prepare clear and accurate written reports of incidents.
• Assist in enforcing federal, state, and local laws and ordinances while adhering to departmental policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
• Participate in simulated and live scenario-based training exercises in areas such as arrests, traffic stops, searches, and defensive tactics.
• Receive training in courtroom procedures, including preparation of testimony, evidence handling, and professional courtroom demeanor.
• Learn techniques for accident investigation, traffic direction and control, and enforcement of DUI and hazardous driving violations.
• Assist senior officers with securing crime scenes, preserving evidence, and conducting preliminary investigations.
• Learn safe and effective use of firearms, defensive equipment, and less-lethal force options.
• Participate in physical fitness and defensive tactics training to maintain job readiness.
• Develop communication skills through interaction with the public, supervisors, and peers to foster positive community relations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of training and departmental operations.
Experience Requirements
• Valid Missouri Driver’s License
• Must be 21 years of age.
• Must pass a comprehensive background investigation including criminal history, employment, references and credit check.
• Must successfully meet the requirements of pre-employment physical and psychological assessments.
• Successful admission into a Missouri POST approved law enforcement academy.
Employment as a Police Trainee is contingent on successful completion of academy training and achievement of a Missouri POST license, at which point the trainee is promoted to Police Officer. Police Officer Trainees will be sent through the police academy by the City of Nevada. Next Police Academy start date is January 19, 2027.
Benefits
Skill Sets
Behavioral Traits
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