Police Officer Trainee

City of Carmel-by-the-Sea; Carmel-by-the-Sea (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

Join the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Department as a Police Officer Trainee. This role involves attending a police academy and learning essential law enforcement skills. You'll be part of a committed team focused on community-oriented policing in a scenic coastal village.

Benefits

CalPERS Retirement

Medical Coverage: 80% of premium

Dental & Vision: Paid by the City

Deferred Comp: $100/month during academy

Educational Pay: Up to $7,000/year

Vacation: Accrual at 80 hours/year

Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $1,500/year

Qualifications

• Strong ethics and sound judgment.
• Ability to follow instructions and adapt quickly.
• Community-focused and service-oriented individual.

Responsibilities

• Attend and complete a POST-certified police academy.
• Learn patrol procedures, criminal law, investigations, and defensive tactics.
• Participate in the internal Field Training Program.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Judgment

Community Focus

Job description

Community. Camaraderie. Crime Prevention.
Join the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Department

Now Hiring Police Officer Trainee

Application Deadline: Monday June 30, 2025 (5 p.m.)

Salary

While in the Police Academy (PSO Range):
$66,913–$81,328.00 annually

After Graduation (Police Officer Range):
Starting in Low $120,000 (Salary negotiations underway with POA for post-July 2025 adjustments)

What You'll Do as a Police Officer Trainee

As a Trainee, you'll:

• Attend a POST-certified police academy
• Learn patrol procedures, criminal law, investigations, and defensive tactics
• Participate and pass our internal Field Training Program
• Train with firearms and drive police vehicles
• Prepare reports and assist with clerical duties as needed
• Connect with our community and participate in local events

We're Looking For Someone Who:

• Communicates clearly and respectfully
• Works well under pressure and in a team
• Has strong ethics and sound judgment
• Is community-focused and service-oriented
• Can follow instructions and adapt quickly
• Builds strong relationships with colleagues and the public

About Carmel-by-the-Sea
A one-square-mile coastal village nestled in the forest, known for its white sand beaches, rich arts scene, and storybook charm. Carmel offers an unparalleled quality of life—peaceful, scenic, and deeply connected to the community.
About the Department
The Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Department provides police, dispatching, animal control, parking, and dispatch services. With 15 sworn and 9 professional staff, we are a small but dynamic team. We are committed to community-oriented policing and delivering exceptional service with integrity, professionalism, and compassion.
We offer specialty assignments including:

• Special Response Unit (SRU)
• Hostage Negotiation Team (HNT)
• Motor Officer, Bicycle Patrol, and Detective roles.

Compensation & Benefits
While in the Academy (PSO Range): $66,913–$81,328.00 annually
After Graduation (Police Officer Range): Starting in Low $120,000 (Salary negotiations underway with POA for post-July 2025 adjustments)

AdditionalBenefits Include:

• CalPERS Retirement: 2% @ 60 (pre-academy), 2.7% @ 57 (post-academy – PEPRA)
• Medical Coverage: 80% of medical premium
• Dental & Vision: Paid by the City
• Deferred Comp: $100/month City contribution during academy; $ amount pending new contract as officer
• Uniform Allowance: $120/month during academy; $80/month as officer
• Educational Pay: Associate's $2,500 / Bachelor's $6,000 / Master's $7,000 per year
• Vacation: Accrues at 80 hours/year; increases with tenure
• Holidays: 12 paid + 1 General Leave Day
• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $1,500/year
• Schedule: Monday–Friday during academy; 3-12s + makeup shift post-academy
• Sick Leave: 8 hours/month

Hiring Process Qualified candidates will participate in:

• Written exam (qualifying)
• Physical performance test (qualifying)
• Oral interview
• Psychological evaluation
• Background investigation (includes criminal, credit, driving, employment, and references)

Important Notes

• Communication during the hiring process will be via email—ensure your contact information is up to date.
• Final candidates will be asked to provide proof of education (transcripts or diploma).
• This position is part of a collective bargaining unit (POA). Benefits may change upon finalization of the current labor agreement (MOU expires June 30, 2025).

HOW TO APPLY
To be considered for this career opportunity,you must submit a complete online application, resume, and cover letter at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/carmelca/. Incomplete applications will be rejected. Applications will be screened in relation to the criteria in this job announcement. Applicants with the most relevant qualification will be invited to interview.

Potential candidates from outside California (Monterey County region) are strongly encouraged to research the cost of housing and overall cost of living in the area before applying.

The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is an equal employment opportunity employer and encourages all qualified individuals to submit an application for this opportunity. The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.