Police Academy Trainee

Company Description

The Harvard University Police Department (HUPD) is a full-service police agency dedicated to maintaining a safe and secure environment that supports Harvard’s mission of teaching, research, and learning. Serving a diverse community of more than 22,000 students, 14,000 faculty and staff, and over 700 buildings across an open and accessible campus, HUPD provides professional policing grounded in partnership, respect, and constitutional values.

With a Patrol Division, Detective Bureau, and Dignitary Protection Unit, HUPD delivers comprehensive law enforcement and public safety services, responding to a wide variety of incidents, conducting investigations, supporting crime prevention initiatives, and assisting community members with services ranging from safety escorts to wellness checks. Joining HUPD means contributing to a mission-driven department that honors free expression, diversity, and individual rights while working collaboratively to protect life, safeguard property, and reduce fear of crime within the Harvard community.

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Job Description

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)