Police Academy Trainee: Path to Certification

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

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.