Police Officer Trainee

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; North Carolina; On-site; USD 39,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is seeking two Police Officer Trainees to patrol campus, investigate incidents, and uphold public safety using community policing principles. Successful candidates will complete required training and undergo extensive background checks.

Ideal applicants are 20+ years old with a NC driver’s license and the ability to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 20 years old at time of appointment and possess a valid NC driver's license.
• Must pass an in-depth background investigation including driving and criminal history.
• Must complete a three-week orientation and a twelve-week field training program during probation.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
• Position is an ESSENTIAL Emergency Duty Employee requiring reporting during emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Patrol UNC campus and respond to incidents.
• Investigate complaints and violations of NC state laws and local ordinances.
• Deter crime and promote safety through community policing principles.
• Coordinate with university security partners and respond to emergencies as directed.

Skills

Oral communication

Written communication

Driver's license

Background check awareness

Education

High School diploma or GED

Associate’s Degree or higher (preferred)

Job description

Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC -Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Posting Information

• Department UPD Police-234401
• Career Area Police/Security
• Posting Open Date 09/18/2026
• Application Deadline 10/19/2026
• Open Until Filled No
• Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
• Working Title Police Officer Trainee
• Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty
• Position Number 20075209, 20076929
• Vacancy ID NF0010055
• Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent
• FTE 1
• Hours per week 40
• Position Location North Carolina, US
• Hiring Range $39,461 - $47,297
• Proposed Start Date 11/02/2026

Primary Purpose Of Organizational Unit

UNC Police supports the University’s core mission of teaching, research, and public service by developing partnerships that, through the encouragement of problem-solving and communications, seek to identify and address public safety needs with professionalism and integrity, all while protecting North Carolina’s future.

Position Summary

This recruitment is for two (2) UNC Police Officer Trainee position(s). By applying, you will be considered for both position(s): 20075209 and 20076929. The main purpose of the UNC Police Officer position is to protect and serve the students, faculty, staff and visitors of University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill through law enforcement and crime prevention. The selected candidate(s) will patrol campus and investigate complaints and violations of State laws and local ordinances using the Community Oriented Policing philosophy. This person also develops and implements preventative patrol techniques and performs specialized duties to deter crime and promote effective safety and security practices.

• Applicants may be expected to attend a 5-6 month full time Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) course delivery. Those candidates will be expected to successfully complete BLET, pass the state BLET written exam, and achieve immediate certification as a Law Enforcement Officer in accordance with the provisions of North Carolina Criminal Justice Education Training and Standards Commission.

Minimum Education And Experience Requirements

Minimum of High School diploma or GED. Ability to qualify for attendance at a State of North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) Academy including satisfying all relevant background check and physical agility requirements as required by the NC Criminal Justice Education Training and Standards Commission (NC CJETSC) and the hiring agency.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

Candidate must be at least 20 years of age at time of appointment; possess a valid North Carolina Driver’s License; pass an in-depth background investigation, which includes driver’s history and criminal history with no felony convictions, psychological testing, polygraph examination, drug screening, and physical. Must successfully complete a three-week department orientation course and a twelve-week department field training program during probationary period; must satisfactorily complete the state mandated probationary period. The selected candidate must possess the ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing and deal with the public and representatives of the criminal justice system in a professional manner. The candidate(s) for this position will be considered an ‘ ESSENTIAL ’ Emergency Duty Employee. This means that the position is one that is necessary to ensure University operations continue uninterrupted during periods of adverse weather and/or other emergency situations, including those that require the University to close. As such the employee in this position will be required to report to work according to their usual schedule, or upon notification to report outside of their usual work schedule.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience

Department strongly prefers candidates who possess an Associate’s Degree or higher from an accredited community college or university.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Candidate must meet physical and psychological requirements of the North Carolina Criminal Education and Standards Commission, which includes a physical exam, psychological exam, and drug test. In addition, the UNC Police department requires a polygraph examination.

Position involves being able to subdue resisting suspects and effect forcible arrests; must be able to defend oneself; operating a law enforcement vehicle under emergency conditions during day and night; pursuing fleeing suspects; performing searches of people and buildings involving feeling and detecting objects; exercising independent judgement in determining when to use force and to what degree; enduring verbal and mental abuse; comprehending legal documents including citations, affidavits, and warrants; commanding emergency personnel at accidents, emergencies, and disasters.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

This position is designated as a Campus Security Authority in accordance with the Clery Act. This position will be required to report Clery crimes to the Clery Compliance Manager and complete annual training about reporting responsibilities.

Department Contact Name and Title

Nealy Britt

Email: [e-mail]

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.