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

Position: Police Officer Trainee

Overview
The City of Oakland, an equal-opportunity employer, seeks Police Officer Trainees dedicated to public service, diversity, inclusion, and equity. Candidates with the education and experience to demonstrate strong motivation, community interest, and the ability to interact effectively and fairly with residents and colleagues are encouraged to apply.

Salary and Benefits:
Upon successful completion of the academy, Police Officers receive annual step increases, reaching the top pay step after five years. Benefits include:

Health and dental insurance for employees and dependents
Pension through CalPERS
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Tuition reimbursement for education
Life insurance, employee assistance programs, and deferred compensation plans
Minimum Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or GED
Age: Minimum of 21 years by academy graduation
Driver's License: Valid drivers license
Criminal Record: No felony convictions or misdemeanors barring firearm possession
Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident eligible for and having applied for citizenship
The Oakland Police Department reserves the right to adjust selection criteria based on prior experience or certifications.

Application and Selection Process
Step 1: Submit Online Application
Applications must be submitted through the Citys online system. Candidates are encouraged to keep contact information updated to ensure eligibility.

Step 2: Virtual or In-Person Written Exam
The National Testing Network (NTN) Written Exam is required. Candidates may complete the exam virtually or at designated test sites.

Step 3A: Physical Ability Test
Candidates with successful written exam scores are invited to the OPD Physical Ability Test. This test assesses physical readiness for the demands of police work.

Step 3B: Oral Exam
The Oral Exam evaluates communication, interpersonal skills, and judgment through scenario-based questions. Candidates who pass the Oral Exam are ranked on an eligibility list for further consideration.

Step 4: Background Investigation and Chiefs Character Review
Selected candidates undergo a background investigation, including a polygraph exam. Those who pass are invited to a Chiefs Interview, and if successful, will receive a conditional job offer contingent on passing a medical and psychological examination.

Additional Information
Eligibility List
Placement on the eligibility list is not a guarantee of employment. Candidates will be selected from the list as vacancies arise, starting with those with the highest scores.

Residency and Veterans Preference Points
Oakland residents and veterans may claim preference points. Proof of Oakland residency or a Form DD-214 for veterans must be presented at the Oral Exam.

Selective Certification
Some roles may require bilingual skills in Spanish, Cantonese, or Mandarin. Candidates for these positions must demonstrate language proficiency for selective certification.

Fee Waiver for Testing
Candidates experiencing financial hardship may request a fee waiver for the NTN exam. This request must be submitted to the National Testing Network prior to registration.

Contact Information
For questions or to update information, contact the City of Oakland Police Departments Recruiting and Background Unit.

The City of Oakland is committed to fair hiring practices and fostering a workforce that reflects the citys rich diversity.