DEFINITION
START A CAREER IN LAW ENFORCEMENT
POLICE OFFICER TRAINEE
View the City of Stockton Police website
https://joinstocktonpd.com/
Incentives For New Employees
Sign on Bonus - $15,000
Relocation Assistance Reimbursement
40 hours of vacation available for immediate use
Other Incentives
City pays the entire employee share of their health plan contribution
CLASSIFIED/REPRESENTED POSITION
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
- PHYSICAL ABILITY TEST (PAT) and PELLETB Written Test
Saturday, March 28, 2026
See Supplemental Questions For The Following Important Information
- Physical Requirement
- Veterans Preference
- T-score Submission
- POST 30-Day Period
- Virtual Recruiting
- PAT/PELLETB Workshop
- PELLETB Preparation Guide
- "Mark your Calendar" Test Date!
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This position is an entry-level, non-sworn position in the Police Department. Incumbents are assigned to the Basic Peace Officer Academy and must satisfactorily pass all of the requirements that lead to the possession of the Basic Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Certificate before becoming candidates for the sworn position of Police Officer. Emphasis is placed on community-based policing, familiarization between law enforcement and community residents, and collaborative problem solving. Assignment to this classification is temporary. Failure to complete a police academy will result in termination from City of Stockton employment.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES (Illustrative Only)
Attend and successfully complete a police academy to prepare for the position of Police Officer
Qualifications
Education: Graduation from an accredited United States high school or possession of a GED certificate received from a recognized accrediting association. Completion of some college course work is preferred.
Age: Must be twenty (20) years of age at the time of application, and twenty-one (21) years of age by the time of appointment.
Driver's License: Must possess or be able to obtain and maintain a valid California Class C driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record.
Background Investigation
- Must successfully complete a background investigation, which shall include a polygraph and psychological examination, and a California Department of Justice fingerprint clearance.
- Must be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition, including bias against race or ethnicity, gender, nationality, religion, disability, or sexual orientation, that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer.
- Must be able to pass a physical examination, which includes a drug screen, administered by the City Physician. Vision requirements are 20/100 uncorrected; 20/30 corrected. Color blindness will be cause for rejection. Hearing must be within normal range -- 5/5.
Additional requirements:
- Must be able to work days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays; and drive.
- The City of Stockton requires employees in a public safety classification to reasonably respond to emergencies at all times. Employees will be required to maintain primary residence within 45 minutes of City Hall in order to timely respond to emergencies and meet the health, safety and welfare needs of the City. New employees have up to three (3) months from the date of hire to comply with the requirement. Any interested candidates must be willing to adhere to this requirement throughout the duration of employment.
In addition to the requirements listed above, candidates must possess the knowledge, skills, and physical/mental abilities. For Police Officer Trainee Job Description, click here
In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all City of Stockton employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath.
ALL APPLICATIONS AND SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONS MUST BE COMPLETED FULLY AND SUBMITTED ON AN OFFICIAL CITY OF STOCKTON APPLICATION FORM. (DO NOT STATE "REFER TO RESUME" ON YOUR APPLICATION OR SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE.) INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS AND SUPPLEMENTALS WILL BE REJECTED AND CANNOT BE REVISED AFTER SUBMITTAL ON OR BEFORE THE FINAL FILING DATE. POSTMARKS, FACSIMILES, AND PHOTOCOPIES OF THE CITY'S EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. RESUMES ARE WELCOMED BUT SHOULD BE SUBMITTED AS ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ONLY.
The information in this announcement concerning the terms and conditions of employment does not constitute either an express or implied contract, and these provisions are subject to change.
Note
- NeoGov.com: If you selected the option to be notified by e-mail you will receive correspondence via the e-mail address you placed on your application. Some e-mail accounts have been known to place these e-mails in the spam/junk file. Please check your e-mail folders or accept e-mails ending with neogov.com.
- Notification and correspondence will be sent via email only. No paper notices will be mailed to applicants. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure a correct email address is provided and that correspondence is being received.
- After on-line submittal, immediate notification will appear on your screen indicating your application has been received. You should print this notice as proof of filing.
In accordance with California Government Code section 3100, et., seq., all City of Stockton employees are considered disaster service workers who may be required to report for duty, or remain on duty to address disaster service activities in the event of an emergency or disaster and are required to undertake an applicable loyalty oath.
Bargaining Unit
STOCKTON POLICE OFFICER'S ASSOCIATION (SPOA)
The City of Stockton offers a comprehensive benefits package for employees and their eligible dependents in the Stockton Police Officers’ Association (SPOA). A summary of the key offerings are listed below. More information can be found on the City of Stockton Benefits Page and the SPOA Memorandum of Understanding.
Health Benefits – Choice of Kaiser and Sutter health insurance plans. The City will cover the entire employee’s share of the monthly health plan contribution.
Dental and Vision Plans – City of Stockton offers the choice of Delta Dental PPO or DHMO plans. The City offers VSP as a Vision plan. The City will cover the entire employee’s share of the monthly dental and vision plan contributions.
Life Insurance and Long Term Disability - Employees are provided life insurance through Lincoln National Life Insurance Company with life insurance benefits of $50,000 for each employee. For some employee bargaining units, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit is provided.
Retirement Program – CalPERS (formula is dependent on hire date and member status in CalPERS). The City also offers a voluntary Deferred Compensation 457 Plan through Empower. The City will provide a dollar-for-dollar matching contribution to the deferred compensation 401(a) plan for participating employees up to a maximum of $600.00 per fiscal year. Public Safety
does not participate in Social Security.
Longevity Pay - The Following Longevity Plan Applies
I. Officers who have been employed with the City of Stockton for 5 years will receive 2% longevity pay.
II. Officers with 10 years will receive an additional 2%,
III. Officers with 15 years will receive an additional 2%,
IV. Officers with 20 years will receive an additional 2%,
V. Service years will be based on the employee’s initial P.O.S.T. certification date if that year is earlier than their most recent hire date with the City.
Vacation – All regular status employees, excluding provisional, temporary, and part-time employees, shall accrue vacation leave with pay semi-monthly at the rate of 80 hours per year the first year and a half and progresses up to 189 hours per year up to 25 years. For 25 + years of service, seven (7) additional hours are added for each additional completed year of service. Maximum accruals do apply.
Sick Leave - All regular status employees, except provisional, temporary, and part-time employees, shall accrue sick leave at the rate of eight (8) hours for each full month of service. All regular status employees, except provisional, temporary, and part-time employees, working less than a full month shall accrue sick leave on a prorated basis. Unused sick leave shall accumulate from year to year.
Holidays – There are 14 paid holidays per year.
Uniform Allowance – Employees receive a uniform allowance of $950 per year.
Additional Benefits – Employee Assistance Program, Section 125 Plans, Voluntary Products (Life Insurance, AD&D, Hospital, Accident, Short-term disability insurances), Direct Deposit, Education Assistance
NOTE: Employee Benefits are subject to change through the collective bargaining process and are not guaranteed. For a detailed explanation of benefits currently in effect, click here to view a link to the "Stockton Police Officers' Association (SPOA)" contract.
01
The Supplemental Questionnaire is part of the examination process; accordingly, it should be completed carefully. It must be submitted with your official employment application. Do not indicate "see resume" as an answer to any of these questions.
- I certify that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and understand that falsification may cancel any terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.
02
Are you 20 years of age or older at the time of submitting this application? Note: a "No" response will result in application denial.
03
EDUCATION: Do you possess a high school diploma from an accredited United States High School, a GED certificate, a California High School Proficiency certificate, or a two-year, four-year, or advanced degree from an accredited college or university? Note: a "No" response will result in application denial.
04
DRIVER'S LICENSE: Do you possess, or are you able to obtain prior to employment with the City of Stockton, a valid California Class "C" driver's license? Note: a "No" response will result in application denial.
05
If you answered "Yes" to question #4, please indicate your California driver's license number and expiration date below. If you possess an out-of-state driver's license, please indicate the state, your license number, and expiration date below. If you answered "No" to question #4, please type "N/A".
06
T-SCORE Or National Testing Network (NTN) SUBMISSION
Applicants who possess a California POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) T-Score or NTN score may submit the score based on the following conditions:
- The test was administered by a California law enforcement agency or academy or NTN;
- The test was taken within 12 months of the date of submitting this application;
- Achieved a T-Score of 45.0 or higher or qualifying NTN; and
- Exact T-Score will be reported (not a general statement that the score was "45.0 or higher") or qualifying NTN score.
NOTE: candidates who take the NTN
must add "Stockton Police Department" to your NTN portal. Failure to add the Stockton Police Department, NTN will not convert your score to a T-score. If you meet these conditions, you may submit a T-score or NTN score no later than the
final filing date by one of the following methods:
- scan/attach to the online application; or
- email to: Eric.Torr@stocktonca.gov Write in subject line "T-score or NTN".
Do you wish to submit a T-score or NTN?
07
If you have taken the PELLETB with City of Stockton within the last twelve (12) months and wish to use that score for this application, you are
required to email
Eric Torr at
Eric.Torr@stocktonca.gov, stating that you wish to use your previous score you received with City of Stockton.
- I understand the above statement and understand that I am responsible for sending an email stating I wish to use my previous T-Score that I took with City of Stockton within the last twelve (12) months.
08
Academy Physical Requirement
Applicants must be in good physical condition prior to the start of the academy process and be prepared to meet the following physical requirements:
- Drag a 165lb. "weighted dummy" for 32 feet;
- Scale a 6' solid wall;
- Scale a 6' chain link fence;
- Complete a 99 yard obstacle course, which may consist of:
- 3 - 6 inch high simulated curbs;
- 34" high saw horse obstacle to maneuver over; and
- 500 yard run.
- I understand the above requirements and understand I must be in good physical condition prior to the start of the academy.
09
Veteran's Preference
Applicants who have served on active duty in any branch of the United States Armed Forces, including the National Guard and the United States Coast Guard, for at least
181 consecutive days and have been
honorably discharged, may receive Veteran's Preference Points.
To Be Considered For Veteran's Preference Points, You Must Provide a Copy Of Your DD-214, Member 4 Form, No Later Than The Final Filing Date By One Of The Following Methods
- scan/attach to the online application; or
- email to: Eric.Torr@stocktonca.gov Write in subject line "DD214".
Do you wish to apply for Veteran's Preference?
10
30-day Period
California POST does
not allow candidates to take the POST Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) more than one time in a 30-day period.
If you are scheduled to take the PELLETB with another agency, you
must notify Human Resources staff, Eric Torr (209) 937-8507, no later than the
final filing date.
Did you take or plan to take the PELLETB with another agency?
11
MILITARY FITNESS TEST SCORECARD: Applicants who possess a valid Military Fitness Test Scorecard may submit the scorecard in lieu of taking the City's Physical Ability Test. The scorecard must meet the following: 1. Fitness test administered within the past 12 months; and 2. Receive a passing score. If you meet these conditions, you may submit a scorecard no later than the
final filing date by one of the following methods: a. Scan/attach to the online application; or b. Email to: Eric.Torr@stocktonca.gov Write in the subject line "Military Scorecard". Do you wish to submit a military fitness test scorecard?
12
SOUTH BAY REGIONAL PHYSICAL ABILITY TEST (WSTB): Applicants who have previously taken and successfully passed the South Bay Regional physical ability test (WSTB) with a
score of 320 or higher and achieved a passing 1.5-mile run will have the Stockton's physical ability test waived. To facilitate this, a copy of the certificate verifying the successful completion of the test must accompany the application. It is important to note that test scores from the WSTB are only considered valid for a period of one year from the date the test was taken . If you wish to submit a WSTB, you
must submit no later than the
final filing date by one of the following methods: a. Scan/attach to the online application; or b. Email to: Eric.Torr@stocktonca.gov Write in the subject line "WSTB". Do you wish to submit a valid WSTB Physical Ability Test?
13
Thank you for your interest! In an effort to more closely determine effectiveness of advertising for the Police Officer Trainee position, please indicate below the primary source from which you heard about this position.
- Recruiter/Recruiting Table (Please specify in Question #14 below)
- JoinStocktonPD.com
- SPD Now Hiring Poster/Bumper Sticker/Billboard
- Stocktonca.gov
- Facebook
- Govermentjobs.com
- Instagram
- Indeed
- POST Website (post.ca.gov)
- Referral by City of Stockton Employee (Please specify in Question #14 below)
- Other (Please specify in Question #14 below)
14
If you selected an option in Question #13 asking to further specify ... Please use the space here to explain in further detail.
If no further information is needed, please put
"N/A" in the box below.
15
All correspondence from the City of Stockton regarding application status, testing notices, eligibility and any other information regarding your candidacy will be sent via email only.
- I understand the above statement and understand that I am responsible for ensuring I have provided a valid email address and am receiving notices.
16
VIRTUAL RECRUITING, PAT/PELLETB WORKSHOP and PRE-TEST VIRTUAL Q&A: (Optional)
Virtual Recruiting: The virtual events allow you to speak directly to a Recruiter about the Police Officer Trainee position.
- Wednesday - February 18th at 6pm
- Wednesday - March 11th at 6pm PAT/PELLETB Workshop: The workshop will give you the opportunity to practice elements of the Physical Ability Test (PAT) and get an overview of the PELLETB written test.
- Thursday - March 5th at 6pm
- Thursday - March 19th at 6pm PRE-TEST VIRTUAL Q&A:The virtual event will allow you to ask any additional questions directly with Stockton Police Department's Recruiting Team.
- Tuesday - March 24th at 6pm If you're interested, email: spdrecruiting@stocktonca.gov Provide your full name, phone number and indicate which date(s) you would like to attend. Upon receipt, a confirmation email will be sent with the location/address to the workshop.
- I understand the importance of speaking to a recruiter and attending the PAT/PELLETB Workshop.
17
Have you submitted an application for Police Officer Trainee with the City of Stockton within the last 12 months?
18
The City of Stockton requires employees in this position to reasonably respond to emergencies at all times. Employees will be required to maintain primary residence within 45 minutes of City Hall in order to timely respond to emergencies and meet the health, safety and welfare needs of the City. Candidates must be willing to adhere to this requirement throughout the duration of employment.
Note: a "No" response will result in application denial.
Do you understand and agree to this requirement?
19
- Mark your Calendar* :
- Physical Ability Test (PAT) and PELLETB Written Exam will be held on the same day: Saturday, March 28, 2026 Please select the answer that best matches you below.
- I am available and will make every effort to attend the Physical Ability Test and PELLETB written exam on the date above.
- I submitted a qualifying T-score and understand that I must take the Physical Ability Test on the date above.
- I submitted a qualifying Physical Ability Test and understand that I must take the PELLETB written exam on the date above.
- I submitted a qualifying Physical Ability Test and a qualifying T-score and understand that I must submit the SPD questionnaire, once received, attached to the invitation email. I will send this to Eric Torr at Eric.Torr@sotcktonca.gov.
- Required Question
