City of Oakland
150 Frank G Ogawa Plaza, 2nd Floor
Oakland, California 94612
Phone: (510) 238-2134

Updated: September 25, 2024

City of Oakland - Police Officer Trainee
The City of Oakland is committed to workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity. As one of the most diverse cities in the U.S., Oakland has a long history of activism and social justice. We aim to create meaningful outcomes for all residents by addressing systemic inequities. The ideal candidate will possess the ability to work effectively with a diverse community and demonstrate a commitment to justice, empathy, and ethical behavior.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: U.S. high school diploma or G.E.D. equivalent
Age: Must be at least 21 years old upon graduation from the academy (six-month duration)
Driver's License: Valid drivers license required
Criminal Record: No felony convictions or misdemeanor convictions that prevent carrying a firearm
Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible for U.S. citizenship
Compensation and Benefits
Police Officer Trainees will receive step increases after completing the academy, reaching the top step after five years. Benefits include city-paid health and dental insurance for employees and dependents, a pension (CalPERS), vacation leave, sick leave, holidays, tuition reimbursement, life insurance, employee assistance programs, and a deferred compensation plan.

Application and Selection Procedures

Step 1: Submit your application online by the closing date. Computer stations are available at Oakland Public Libraries for those without computer access.
Step 2: Self-schedule for the National Testing Network (NTN) or PELLETB written exams. Written test scores must be submitted to the Oakland Police Department by October 25, 2024.
Step 3A: OPD Physical Ability Test is scheduled for November 9, 2024, at Merritt College, Oakland, CA.
Step 3B: Oral Exam will also be held on November 9, 2024, and candidates will be asked job-related questions, including hypothetical scenarios. Successful candidates will be placed on an eligibility list.
Step 4: Background Investigation and Chief's Character Review, including a polygraph examination and an interview.
Additional Information

Veteran's Preference Points: Veterans must provide a DD-214 form at the Oral Exam to claim preference points.
Oakland Residency Preference Points: Proof of Oakland residency, such as a California drivers license or utility bill, will be required at the Oral Exam.
Selective Certification: Certain positions may require bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Candidates with these skills will be selectively certified for those roles.
Fee Waiver: Candidates with financial hardship may request a fee waiver for the NTN test before the deadline.
The Oakland Police Department reserves the right to modify the selection process based on administrative or business needs.

An Equal Opportunity Employer