Police Officer Trainee

The Police Officer Non-Certified is an entry-level Police Officer trainee position for individuals seeking a career in law enforcement. Trainees are hired with the intent of attending and completing a P.O.S.T. approved police academy. Upon graduation and meeting all requirements, trainees will assume the role of Police Officer - Certified role.  This role is ideal for candidates who demonstrate integrity, discipline, and a strong commitment to public service and community safety.

About the Work Unit:

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is led by the Office of the Chief of Police in the Division of Administration. VUPS is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals united by a shared commitment to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for all in the Vanderbilt community, as well as the Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Organized into several specialized units, our department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff—all working collaboratively to uphold the highest standards of community-based policing. 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Successfully complete all police academy phases, including academic coursework, physical training, firearms qualification, scenario-based exercises, and required departmental field training.

• Learn and effectively apply all relevant laws, regulations, and departmental policies.

• Demonstrate and maintain proficiency in defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, report writing, and professional communication.

• While awaiting academy attendance, perform non-sworn, full-time assignments as needed across various departmental areas.

• Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate personal accountability, and represent the agency with professionalism at all times.

• Maintain peak physical fitness and meet all required performance benchmarks for academy entry and law enforcement duties.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility and reports administratively and functionally to the assigned shift Sergeant and their chain of command. 

 Education and Certifications:

• A bachelor's Degree is preferred.

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.

• Must be 21 years of age or older.

• Acceptance into an accredited, approved Police Academy is required.

• Must meet all requirements for P.O.S.T. certification in Tennessee, including completing basic recruit training within the first nine (9) months of employment.

• Possession of a special police commission from the Chief Law Enforcement official in Metropolitan Nashville is required.

• Must meet the physical agility standards of the training division prior to academy attendance.

• Preferred: 24 months of VUPS experience in a non-sworn departmental role.

Experience and Skills:

• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.

• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure and diverse environments.

• Commitment to community engagement and public safety.

• Willingness to learn and adapt to evolving law enforcement practices.

Additional Information

• This position reports directly to the assigned shift Sergeant and chain of command.

• Must successfully complete annual P.O.S.T.-approved in-service training (at least 40 hours).

• Promotion to Police Officer upon graduation is contingent upon performance and agency needs.

• Trainees are expected to maintain full-time availability during academy training.

Physical Requirements

In addition to meeting P.O.S.T. requirements, Police Officer Trainees must be able to: 

• Must be able to stand for long periods, walk, climb, and lift. Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming

• Pass a thorough background investigation that demonstrates –

  • Good moral character,

  • Good driving record, and

  • No prior criminal convictions that would prohibit the individual from meeting the standards set forth by the State of Tennessee to become a law enforcement officer.

• Pass a medical examination, including vision screening and drug testing; must obtain immunizations and medical tests as required to be able to work in patient care and high-risk areas.

• Pass a Psychological Evaluation. 

Working Environment

• Required to work nights, weekends, and holidays, and in inclement weather. 
• May be confined to a patrol car for an entire shift. 
• May be exposed to hazardous materials, infectious disease, bloodborne pathogens, steam, car battery acid, loud noises, smoke, and fire (must be able to use precautionary equipment).
• Required to be knowledgeable and able to correctly use a TB Mask and other precautionary equipment. 

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.