Police Officer - Probationary

Overview

The City of Miami is seeking candidates for the probationary position of Police Officer. This entry-level role is designed for new law enforcement recruits who will undergo comprehensive training both at the Police Academy and in the field to become certified officers. The recruitment will close once 1000 applications are received or by July 31, 2026, whichever occurs first.

Training and Duties

Employees will participate in a structured Police Academy training program following the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission (CJSTC) curriculum. Training involves intense physical conditioning in a para-military setting and covers diverse topics such as law enforcement principles, crime scene investigation, patrol procedures, DUI and traffic stops, traffic crash investigations, firearms, vehicle operations, report writing, first aid, communications, defensive tactics, and use of non-lethal weapons (Taser and OC spray), along with human relations.

After academy graduation and successful completion of the Florida State Officer Certification Exam, recruits will complete a six-month Field Training Officer Program aimed at transitioning theoretical knowledge to practical patrol responsibilities. Police officers may face dangerous situations requiring independent judgment and swift decision-making under emergency conditions.

On duty, officers patrol designated city areas to uphold law and order, prevent crime, respond to various incidents—including violent crimes and emergencies—conduct investigations, administer first aid, secure crime scenes, interview witnesses and suspects, prepare detailed reports, and provide courtroom testimony. They also conduct crash investigations, assess accident scenes, and clear obstructions, and work on resolving community issues by engaging local residents and organizations through community policing approaches and crime analysis data.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen as required by Florida Statute 943.13.
• Applicants must be at least 19 years old by July 31, 2026.
• Educational attainment requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Foreign credentials must be evaluated by an approved agency for U.S. equivalency; translations alone are insufficient.
• A valid driver's license from any state is needed to apply; however, a Florida Class E or higher driver's license must be obtained before appointment. Driving history will be scrutinized for disqualification criteria.
• Passing the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Basic Abilities Test (FDLE BAT) for law enforcement is mandatory prior to orientation, unless exempt as a veteran or holder of an associate degree or higher from an accredited institution.
• Visual acuity must be at least 20/30 (with correction) and 20/100 (without correction); normal depth and color perception are required.
• Applicants must have no felony or perjury-related convictions and no dishonorable military discharge.

Documentation Requirements

Applicants must submit clear, legible copies of the following when applying:

• Valid driver's license (Florida Class E or equivalent from another state).
• Proof of education (high school diploma, degree, transcripts, or approved foreign credential evaluations).
• Proof of age (U.S. birth certificate, driver's license, or passport).
• Proof of U.S. citizenship (naturalization certificate, U.S. passport, or official birth certificate from county or CDC).

Additional documents may be required at orientation to verify passing of the FDLE BAT exam.

Selection Process

Applicants meeting eligibility and documentation requirements will be subject to orientation, a physical ability test, structured interview, polygraph, psychological evaluation, comprehensive background investigation, fingerprinting, driving record review, drug screening, and a post-offer medical exam. Failure to attend any stage may lead to disqualification.

Preferences and Equal Opportunity

Preference in selection is granted as per Florida Statute 295.07 for veterans with proper documentation. City of Miami residents also receive selection preference when submitting adequate proof of residency documents. The city is an equal opportunity employer.

Additional Notes

Certified officers are encouraged to apply. Police work involves inherent risks requiring professionalism and independence under supervision. The recruitment and selection procedures are designed to ensure candidates meet the high standards required for public safety roles.