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Job Description
The Town of Los Gatos is currently accepting applications for the position of
POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE
Hourly Rate
Current : $57.58
July 2025: $60.46
July 2026: $62.88
Plus retirement and medical health benefits through CalPERS.
Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis. We encourage interested candidates to apply early as this recruitment may close at any time without notice.
Are you interested in a law enforcement career? The Police Officer Trainee position is a non-sworn position for individuals who have not yet attended a police academy. If selected, the Town will compensate you at an hourly rate while you attend the Police Academy as a Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department-sponsored trainee. Read the "Attending a P.O.S.T. Police Academy" section in this job announcement for more information on what to expect.
Already enrolled in a Police Academy? You are welcome to apply to this job posting.
Selected candidates must:- Submit Pellet-B and WSTB scores dated within one year with a minimum passing score of 42.
- Successfully pass a thorough background investigation, including, but not limited to criminal history; Department of Justice fingerprinting; medical exam, including drug screening; polygraph; and psychological exam .
- Attend and successfully complete a California P.O.S.T. approved basic academy. The Academy i s about 26 weeks long (or 928 hour) l ong and covers all aspects of police work.
- Participate in rigorous physical, academic, and tactical training to prepare for the demands of a Police Officer role.
- Learn and understand state and local laws, ordinances, and departmental policies.
- Develop skills in de-escalation, community interaction, investigation techniques, and report writing.
- Perform related duties as required and directed by academy instructors and department leadership.
Police Officer Trainees are temporary Town employees eligible to enroll in medical health benefits. Theyreceive retirement benefits through CalPERS, Workers' Compensation, Unemployment Insurance, and paid sick leave (5 days).
After the Academy
Upon successful completion and graduation from the Academy, you will be eligible to join the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department family as a sworn Police Officer and take part in an 18-month probationary period and field training program (FTO) before assuming the responsibility of a solo patrol officer. You will also receive benefits at the Public Safety formula as outlined in the POA Benefit Summary.
The Department has a culture of promoting from within and offers different opportunities to broaden and gain specialized experience. The Police Officer classification series offers career growth opportunities for both new professionals and those with more work experience.
Hourly Salary Range
Plus excellent benefits as outlined in the POA Benefit Summary AND 3% salary increases scheduled for July 2025 and July 2026.
Police Officer Trainee $57.58
Police Officer: $60.61 to $81.04*
Police Corporal: $63.63 to $85.07*
Police Sergeant: $76.70 to $97.67*
*With POST and Educational Incentive.
Specialized Assignments
(receive additional 5% incentive pay)
Canine Officer
School Resource Officer
Motorcycle Officer
Field Training Officer (FTO)
Investigations
Duties and Responsibilities
About the Department
The Town of Los Gatos and the City of Monte Sereno have a combined population of about 34,000 residents who enjoy a high quality of life with low crime rates. The LGMS Police Department is budgeted for 39 sworn and 21 civilian personnel and has over 50 community volunteers. The members of the LGMS Police Department work hard to provide a full range of services. They are committed to providing our residents, businesses, and visitors with the highest quality service. We are proud of the relationship with our community and are constantly solidifying that relationship through partnerships, collaboration, and individual contacts.
The Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department is committed to ensuring public safety with integrity, compassion, and professionalism.
Providing exceptional Law Enforcement servicesBuilding Community PartnershipsEngaging the Community in Problem Solving Learn more about the LGMS Police Department.
About the Town The Town of Los Gatos is a general law city operating under the Council/Manager form of government. The Town Manager and Town Attorney are appointed and directly report to the Town Council. The Town’s 200 full- and part-time employees are organized into the following departments: Parks & Public Works, Community Development, Police, Library; and Administrative Services. The Town’s fiscal year 2023/24 General Fund budget is $56.1 million.Learn more about the Town of Los Gatos.
Attending a P.O.S.T. Police Academy
Attending a police academy is a rigorous, transformative experience designed to equip recruits with the physical, mental, and practical skills needed for a career in law enforcement. The Academy will help you build the necessary skills, confidence, and knowledge to be a responsible law enforcement officer. Recruits should expect physical and mental challenges but leave equipped for the role's demands. Below is a summary of what to expect:
Physical Training
Intensity: Physical fitness is a cornerstone of academy life. Expect early mornings, intense workouts, and regular physical assessments. Activities include running, strength training, obstacle courses, and defensive tactics.
Endurance & Agility: Recruits will work on building endurance, strength, and agility to meet specific fitness standards, essential for handling the physical demands of police work.
Academic Curriculum
Classroom Instruction: You’ll learn about criminal law, constitutional law, civil rights, ethics, and public service.
Tests & Exams: Expect rigorous testing to ensure understanding, covering everything from legal principles to procedural regulations.
Real-World Scenarios: Recruits will often practice what they learn in realistic simulations, such as traffic stops, searches, and arrests, to solidify classroom knowledge.
Skills Training
Firearms Training: Safely handling, shooting, and maintaining firearms is a significant part of academy training.
Driving: High-speed pursuits and defensive driving techniques are covered to prepare recruits for safe, effective driving.
Communication: Verbal de-escalation, conflict resolution, and interview techniques are emphasized, as clear communication is key to policing.
Mental Resilience
Stress Management: Officers must learn to handle high-stress situations calmly. The academy will challenge recruits emotionally and mentally to build resilience.
Decision-Making: Training includes exercises that simulate high-pressure decisions, preparing recruits to act decisively in unpredictable environments.
Discipline & Professionalism
Uniform Standards: Attention to detail, from uniform maintenance to punctuality and protocol adherence, is critical.
Ethics & Conduct: Upholding integrity and understanding ethical obligations in law enforcement are drilled throughout the training.
Minimum Qualifications
EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Education: Graduate on from high school or equivalent and at least one of the following criteria:- 60 semester college credits or 90 quarter college credits from a U.S. accredited college or university at me of graduation on from academy. (Police Academy credits are accepted as part of the education on requirements); or
- Military Veteran with four (4) or more years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, or the National Coast Guard and an honorable discharge
License: Possession of a valid California Driver’s License at time of appointment.
Special Requirements: Must be 21 years of age at the time of appointment as a sworn Police Officer; be a citizen of the United States or a permanent alien who is eligible and applied for citizenship; and be able to meet hiring requirements established by Peace officer Standards & Training (P.O.S.T).Training: No experience is required; however, candidates with prior internship or experience in a government/municipal public safety department are highly desirable. Candidates must complete a Pellet-B examination within one year of application and complete a WSTB examination dated within one year.
Desired Qualifications: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. • Ability to fluently speak and understand a foreign language.
Application and Selection Process
APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCESS
To be considered for this career opportunity, please complete an application online by clicking "Apply" at the top of this announcement. If this is your first time applying for a position using governmentjobs.com you will be prompted to create a new user account; otherwise log in with your username and password.
Your application, and responses to the supplemental questions will be used to evaluate your qualifications for this position. A resume may be attached to your application but it will not substitute for a completed application.
The information contained within this announcement may be modified or revoked without notice and does not constitute either an expressed or implied contract.
REQUIRED TESTING INFORMATION As part of the application process, Police Officer Trainee applicants are required to complete the following: POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB - written test),POST Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB - physical agility test), and 1.5-mile run. Applications must include Pellet-B and WSTB score dated within one year with a minimum passing score of 42. Applicants are responsible for associated test fees and must contact the testing agency to schedule them.
For more information or to schedule a test, visit https://theacademy.ca.gov/tests/ .
TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE REQUIRED TESTING AND ORAL BOARD
Preparing for the PELLETB
Disclaimer: The advice provided below is for informational purposes only. Individual performance may vary, and success depends on various factors, including personal preparation, study habits, and test-taking skills. We assume no liability for any consequences that may arise from following this advice, including poor test results.
The PELLETB is an aptitude test that measures skills that are developed over time, so practice is essential. You can practice with sample questions, and you can also take a prep course.
This list of tips was compiled using different sources.
Understand the Test Structure: Familiarize yourself with the PELLETB test structure. It typically includes sections on reading and writing ability, clarity, vocabulary, and more. Knowing the format will help you tailor your study plan.
Review Test Content: Identify the specific areas covered in the test. This may include grammar, spelling, punctuation, reading comprehension, and incident report writing. Focus on strengthening your skills in these areas.
Practice Regularly: Regular practice is critical. Use sample questions and practice tests to understand the test format and the types of questions asked. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual exam.
Improve Reading Skills: Since the test includes reading comprehension, improve you reading skills by reading and summarizing passages to enhance your understanding of written content. Time Management: Practice time management during your study sessions and mock exams. The ability to answer questions within the given time frame is crucial.
Use Study Guides: Consider using study guides or review materials specifically designed for the PELLETB. These resources often provide valuable insights into the test content and structure.
Seek Feedback: If possible, have someone knowledgeable review your practice essays or responses. Constructive feedback can help you identify areas for improvement.
Stay Informed: Keep yourself informed about any updates or changes to the PELLETB. This ensures that your study materials align with the current test requirements.
Preparing for the WSTB
Disclaimer: Physical fitness training carries inherent risks. Candidates are encouraged to approach the WSTB preparation responsibly, considering their individual fitness levels and capabilitie s. We recommend you c onsult with a fitness professional and/or your physician before starting a new exercise program, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. W e do not take responsibility for any death, injuries, loss of wages, non-selection, poor test results, or other outcomes resulting from the implementation of the provided advice.
The POST Work Sample Test Battery (WSTB) measures your fitness level to perform the duties of a peace officer. The examination includes a 99-yard obstacle course, 32-foot body drag, fence climbing, 500-yard sprint, and 1.5 mile run.
This list of tips was compiled using different sources.
Understand the Test Components: Familiarize yourself with the specific components of the WSTB, which may include running, push-ups, sit-ups, and other physical activities. Knowing the requirements will help you tailor your training.
Cardiovascular Fitness: Incorporate running, jogging, or other aerobic exercises into your routine to emphasize cardiovascular fitness to improve your endurance to meet the WSTB's running component requirements.
Strength Training: Work on building strength through exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and weight training. Focus on both upper and lower body strength to perform well in the strength-related components of the test.
Practice Test Components: Regularly practice each component of the WSTB, including the 1.5-mile run, push-ups, sit-ups, and any other activities specified in the test. This will help you become familiar with the format and improve your performance.
Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for yourself, considering the specific requirements of the WSTB. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts to build up your fitness level. Consistent Training: Consistency is key. Develop a training schedule and stick to it. Regular, structured training will help you progress and ensure you are prepared for each test component.
Interval Training: Incorporate interval training into your routine to improve both speed and endurance. This can be particularly beneficial for the running component of the WSTB.
Nutrition and Hydration: Pay attention to your nutrition and hydration. Fuel your body with a balanced diet and stay hydrated to support your physical performance during training and on the test day.
Rest and Recovery: Allow your body to rest and recover between training sessions.
Simulate Test Conditions: Practice under conditions similar to the actual test. This can include timing yourself for the run and performing push-ups and sit-ups according to the test standards.
Preparing for an Interview
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking experiences, but with the right preparation, you can boost your confidence and increase your chances of landing that dream job. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, these tips and resources for interview preparation can help you get ready.
- Top Interview Tips: Common Questions, Nonverbal Communication & More (Video)
- How To Prepare For A Job Interview
- Tips for Successful Interviewing
This position is a temporary, hourly position and not eligible for benefits. -
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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Town of Los Gatos
Show moreThe Organization
The Town of Los Gatos is a general law city operating under the Council/Manager form of government. The Town Manager and Town Attorney are appointed by and directly report to the Council. The Town’s 210 full and part time employees are organized into the following departments: Parks & Public Works, Community Development, Police, Library, and Administrative Services.
The Community
Nestled in the base of the majestic Santa Cruz mountains, located about 60 miles south of San Francisco, Los Gatos offers a small town charm with a high level of community pride. With an approximate population of 31,000, Los Gatos is a unique community offering natural beauty that inspires a healthy lifestyle. Los Gatos has a strong economic presence, with an award-winning downtown that offers unique shopping and dining as well as local and regional favorites.
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