Police Academy Trainee

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. During the Academy, trainees earn $30 per hour. After graduating and becoming sworn officers, you'll join the Harvard University Police Association (HUPA) and be paid according to our tiered pay structure.

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.