De-Escalation Training Specialist

Buckeye Police Department; Buckeye (AZ); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Buckeye Police Department is seeking a De-escalation Training Specialist to develop, deliver, and evaluate advanced de-escalation training for sworn and professional staff. The role emphasizes evidence-based practices and immersive simulations (VirTra or similar) to enhance use-of-force decision-making.

The position supports the department's priorities on constitutional policing and risk mitigation, and accommodates both civilian and sworn applicants who meet the qualifications.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED and 3 years' law enforcement experience, including exposure to use of force decision-making.
• Experience as a sworn officer and as a use-of-force instructor or SME.

Responsibilities

• Designs, implements, and improves de-escalation training programs department-wide.
• Delivers AZPOST-compliant instruction on de-escalation, use of force, crisis intervention, and tactical decision-making.

Skills

AZPOST standards

Use-of-force decision-making

Curriculum design

Immersive simulation

Instruction delivery

Education

AZPOST instructor certification

Tools

VirTra system

Training software

Job description

Under direction of the Training Unit Sergeant, this position is responsible for the development, delivery, and evaluation of advanced de-escalation training programs for sworn and professional staff. The De-escalation Training Specialist serves as a subject matter expert in use of force, decision-making, and scenario-based training, with a focus on integrating evidence-based practices and immersive simulation platforms (e.g., VirTra or similar systems).

This position supports the department's strategic goals related to use of force reduction, constitutional policing, and risk mitigation. It may be filled by a civilian or sworn employee who meets all required qualifications.

Instruction and Curriculum Development

• Leads the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of department-wide de-escalation training programs.
• Delivers AZPOST-compliant instruction on de-escalation, use of force, crisis intervention, and tactical decision-making.
• Develops and maintains lesson plans, instructor guides, and evaluation tools aligned with Arizona POST standards and national best practices.
• Integrates case law, policy updates, and emerging research into training content.

Scenario-Based and Simulation Training

• Operates, programs, and facilitates VirTra or similar immersive simulation systems.
• Develops realistic, performance-based scenarios focused on de-escalation techniques, communication and persuasion, use of force decision-making, and critical incident response.
• Evaluates participant performance and provides structured feedback and remediation.

Use of Force Expertise

• Serves as a department resource on use of force standards, trends, and best practices.
• Assists in reviewing use of force incidents for training opportunities and trend analysis.
• Reviews use of force cases from the field to evaluate officer decision-making, identifies training needs, and makes recommendations for policy review and updates.
• Collaborates with command staff on risk mitigation strategies and policy alignment.
• May be required to serve as a use of force subject matter expert for use of force review boards, disciplinary review boards, command staff, city management, and litigation on behalf of the department and city.

Program Coordination and Evaluation

• Tracks and documents training participation and outcomes for grant compliance and reporting.
• Assists in preparing grant reports, performance metrics, and program evaluations.
• Coordinates with internal units and external partners to ensure training consistency and effectiveness.

Collaboration and Professional Development

• Works closely with the Training Unit, Professional Standards, and Command Staff to align training with departmental priorities.
• Maintains current knowledge of national de-escalation models, legal updates, and adult learning principles.
• Represents the department in regional or national training initiatives as appropriate.

Administrative and Support Functions

• Maintains accurate training records consistent with AZPOST and CALEA standards.
• Assists with scheduling, logistics, and equipment readiness for training sessions.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED and three (3) years' experience in law enforcement, including significant exposure to use of force decision-making; OR any equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the position.
• Experience as a sworn law enforcement officer.
• Demonstrated experience as a use of force instructor or subject matter expert.

Preferred

Experience operating or instructing with VirTra or comparable simulation training platforms.

Valid Arizona Driver's License. Must successfully complete a comprehensive background investigation process, polygraph examination, and psychological evaluation. Must maintain AZPOST instructor certification. Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends for training delivery.