Police Trainee

Department overview

The UCLA Police Department serves a large, diverse urban campus and the surrounding community through a modern, community-focused approach to policing. Its mission is to help maintain a secure environment for education, research, and public service by using patrol operations, rapid response, investigations, education, and prevention-based strategies. Strong campus partnerships are a central part of how the department works to keep the community safe.

Role summary

This is an ongoing recruitment for Police Trainee candidates. The department advises applicants to review the UCLA Police Department website for the latest updates on hiring events, application windows, written tests, physical tests, and related recruitment activities. The department also attends hiring and outreach events throughout the year, giving candidates a chance to meet officers and learn more about the role.

Applicants should note that this is a continuous posting.

Selection process

All candidates must complete both a written test and a physical ability test. Multiple test sessions may be conducted under this recruitment. Eligible applicants will be informed by email from the Personnel and Training Unit about their test and/or interview schedule before any planned test date.

The department uses the California POST PELLETB exam. If you already have a passing score from another agency taken within one year of your application date, you may not need to retake it. The current passing benchmark is a score of 50. Candidates scoring between 45 and 50 may contact the Personnel and Training Unit for guidance.

Test schedule

Physical Ability Test and Written Test dates are scheduled for July 26, 2026, September 5, 2026, October 11, 2026, and November 22, 2026.

PAT check-in begins at 7:00 a.m. and runs until 7:30 a.m. The PELLETB is scheduled for 10:30 a.m., or immediately after the PAT concludes.

Testing location: Rio Hondo College, 3600 Workman Mill Rd, Whittier, CA 90601.

Qualifications

• Ability to assess situations carefully, stay objective, and document information clearly and accurately.
• Strong spoken and written communication skills, along with the ability to work effectively with a broad and diverse community.
• Valid California driver's license is required.
• Completion of an accredited California POST-certified police academy and attainment of police officer certification are required.
• Working knowledge of first aid/CPR, campus streets, buildings, parking areas, common law enforcement procedures, traffic laws, and firearms is preferred.

Education and credentials

• High school diploma or an equivalent credential is required.
• A bachelor's degree is preferred.

Employment conditions

• Employment is contingent on a satisfactory background investigation.
• A Live Scan background check must be completed before starting work.
• Candidates must be at least 18 years old.
• A satisfactory pre-placement physical examination is required.
• The role is subject to the California DMV Pull Notice System, and continued employment depends on maintaining a satisfactory driving record.
• A reading comprehension assessment will be administered.
• This position is designated as a mandatory reporter under CANRA, and the employee must sign the required child abuse reporting acknowledgment.
• The role is classified as a Campus Security Authority under Clery Act requirements.

Schedule and policy coverage

Work schedule varies. The position is covered under policy 99.

Compensation note

UCLA offers the full salary range for this role. Final pay is determined by factors such as budget, prior experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure, certifications, and other business considerations. Offers at the top end of the range are uncommon. Benefits begin on day one, and the UC Total Compensation Estimator can be used to estimate the full value of pay and benefits.

Additional information

For the most current recruitment and hiring updates, candidates should refer to the UCLA Police Department website. The department may also participate in recruiting events during the year.