Police Academy Trainee

Harvard Central Administration (CADM) Talent Acquisition; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) seeks a Police Academy Trainee—an entry-level, non-sworn position funded to attend the MPTC ROC and obtain POST certification. Under supervision, the Trainee completes academy training and department pre- and post-academy programs, with appointment as sworn officer upon successful completion and hiring needs.

This role supports Harvard’s safety mission and community values.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years of age by the start date of the police academy (or by date specified by the academy or HUPD policy).
• United States citizen.
• High school diploma or GED required. An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social/behavioral sciences, or a related field is strongly preferred and may be required or prioritized consistent with HUPD/Harvard hiring standards.
• Valid driver’s license (Massachusetts preferred or ability to obtain MA license prior to appointment).

Responsibilities

• Attend, participate in, and successfully complete the MPTC Recruit Officer Course at an MPTC authorized academy, including classroom instruction, practical skills, scenario-based training, firearms training, and physical fitness.
• Meet or exceed all training standards, testing benchmarks, and performance evaluations required by MPTC and the hosting academy, including academic, firearms, defensive tactics, emergency driving, and physical fitness standards.
• Comply with all academy rules, regulations, policies, and codes of conduct.
• Participate in HUPD pre-academy orientation and post-academy Field Training Officer (FTO) program, as directed.

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

Company Description

The Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) is a full-service police agency dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment that supports Harvard’s mission of teaching, research, and learning. Serving a diverse community of more than 22,000 students, 14,000 faculty and staff, and over 700 buildings across an open and accessible campus, HUPD provides professional policing grounded in partnership, respect, and constitutional values.

With a Patrol Division, Detective Bureau, and Dignitary Protection Unit, HUPD delivers comprehensive law enforcement and public safety services, responding to a wide variety of incidents, conducting investigations, supporting crime prevention initiatives, and assisting community members with services ranging from safety escorts to wellness checks. Joining HUPD means contributing to a mission-driven department that honors free expression, diversity, and individual rights while working collaboratively to protect life, safeguard property, and reduce fear of crime within the Harvard community.

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Job Description

Job Summary

The Police Academy Trainee is an entry-level, non-sworn position for individuals preparing to become sworn police officers with the Harvard University Police Department. Incumbents are sponsored by HUPD to attend and successfully complete the Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) Recruit Officer Course (ROC) at an MPTC authorized police academy, and to obtain certification from the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Commission. Under close supervision, the Trainee participates in and completes all academy training requirements and department pre- and post-academy training. Upon successful completion of the academy, meeting all MPTC standards, POST certification requirements, and HUPD/Harvard University standards, the Trainee may be appointed as a sworn Police Officer, subject to available positions and satisfactory performance.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

Academy & Field Training

• Attend, participate in, and successfully complete the MPTC Recruit Officer Course at an MPTC authorized academy, including classroom instruction, practical skills, scenario-based training, firearms training, and physical fitness. (mass.gov)
• Meet or exceed all training standards, testing benchmarks, and performance evaluations required by MPTC and the hosting academy, including academic, firearms, defensive tactics, emergency driving, and physical fitness standards. (mass.gov)
• Comply with all academy rules, regulations, policies, and codes of conduct. (mass.gov)
• Participate in HUPD pre-academy orientation and post-academy Field Training Officer (FTO) program, as directed.

Compliance With POST Requirements

• Satisfy all baseline requirements for initial certification as a law enforcement officer by the Massachusetts Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission, including successful completion of an approved basic training program and meeting standards of good moral character and fitness for employment. (mass.gov)
• Maintain eligibility for POST certification throughout the academy and onboarding process, including adherence to all ethical, legal, and professional standards.

Department & University Responsibilities

• Represent Harvard University and HUPD professionally, demonstrating courtesy, integrity, discretion, and respect for the diverse community served.
• Participate in additional in-service, remedial, or specialized training as assigned.
• Maintain required documentation, logs, and reports related to training, testing, and certifications.
• Comply with all HUPD policies, Harvard University policies, and applicable local, state, and federal laws.
• Perform related duties as assigned or required to support department operations and public safety initiatives.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a variety of settings, including classroom, training facilities, firing ranges, driving courses, and outdoor environments in all weather conditions.
• Subject to extended periods of standing, walking, running, and physical exertion during training.
• Exposure to realistic training scenarios that may involve simulated weapons, loud noises, and stressful situations.
• Must be willing to wear department-issued uniforms and equipment, including a ballistic vest and a duty belt, and eventually carry a firearm upon appointment as a sworn officer.

Qualifications

Legal & General Requirements

• Must be at least 21 years of age by the start date of the police academy (or by date specified by the academy or HUPD policy).
• United States citizen.
• High school diploma or GED required. An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social/behavioral sciences, or a related field is strongly preferred and may be required or prioritized consistent with HUPD/Harvard hiring standards.
• Valid driver’s license (Massachusetts preferred or ability to obtain MA license prior to appointment).