Law Enforcement Officer (Recruit) Position Available In Brevard, Florida
Tallo's Job Summary: The Cocoa Police Department in Cocoa, FL is seeking Law Enforcement Officer (Recruit) candidates to join their community-oriented agency. As a Police Officer Trainee, you will earn a base salary of $42,577.60 while in the academy, with full benefits. After graduation, starting salary increases to $51,542.60 and can rise to $58,030.40 within two years. Benefits include retirement options, tuition reimbursement, and specialty unit eligibility after probation. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma, completion of a Florida Basic Law Enforcement Academy, and passing background and medical screenings.
Job Description
Law Enforcement Officer (Recruit) 3.7 3.7 out of 5 stars Cocoa, FL About the Cocoa Police Department The Cocoa Police Department (CPD) is a CFA-accredited, community-oriented agency serving more than 20,000 residents in the heart of Brevard County, Florida. From downtown historic districts to waterfront neighborhoods, Cocoa offers front-row views of Kennedy Space Center launches, quick access to Atlantic beaches, and an easy 45-minute drive to Orlando. Our mid-sized force of 71 sworn officers embraces modern policing strategies, advanced technology, and robust community engagement. We invest heavily in our people through top-tier training, take-home vehicles (within 50-mile radius), wellness initiatives, and a wide range of specialty units—from SWAT and K-9 to Marine Patrol and Community Engagement. Join #TeamCocoa and build a rewarding career where excellence meets opportunity. Police Officer Trainee (Sponsored Academy) Base salary while in academy: $42,577.60
Status:
Full-time, benefited employee (vacation & sick accruals, medical, dental, vision, life, free employee clinic) CPD will sponsor selected candidates through the Basic Law Enforcement Academy. Tuition, books, and fees are fully covered, and trainees receive a paid stipend during training. After graduation & SOCE certification you will be sworn in as a Police Officer with full salary and benefits (see below). ️ Applicants must submit CJSTC Form 58 with their application. Primary Responsibilities
- Attend and successfully complete all academy coursework, physical training, and examinations.
- Perform department-assigned duties during academy breaks as directed.
- Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and community service.
- Pass the FDLE State Officer Certification Examination (SOCE). Sponsorship Commitment (F.S. 943.16)
- Academy must be completed on schedule.
- After certification, officers must serve a minimum of two (4) years with CPD. Police Officer (Post-Academy) Starting salary: $51,542.60 + 100 hrs holiday pay ($2,167) Projected to rise to $58,030.40 in the next two fiscal years (top out $92,331.20). Experienced officers receive 3 % per documented year of service (max 15 %) and may qualify for:
- Up to $10,000 sign-on bonus (includes $5,000 State of Florida recruitment incentive).
- Pension buy-back for prior sworn service. Key Benefits
Retirement:
75 % at 25 yrs, 3 % COLA (after year 3), 5-year DROP @ 6.5 %, 100 % vested in 10 yrs.
Schedule:
Work only 7 days in a 2- week pay period. (Panama schedule with every other Fri., Sat., and Sun. Off)
- Take-home car program (out-of-county permitted, 50 miles from City Limit).
- Tuition reimbursement and state education incentives (up to $1,440/yr).
- No-cost medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; free employee clinic.
- First-time home-buyer assistance, annual boot allowance ($125), beard/tattoo friendly (with limitations).
- Eligibility for specialty units after one-year probation (SWAT, CNT, THI, Detective, Marine, Motors, K-9, SRO, Honor Guard, FTO, more). Essential Job Functions (Abbreviated)
- Patrol assigned areas by vehicle, bicycle, boat, or on foot; respond to calls for service; enforce laws and ordinances.
- Conduct investigations, collect evidence, prepare detailed reports, and testify in court.
- Render first aid, manage traffic accidents, and assist during disasters or major events.
- Engage in proactive, problem-solving policing to strengthen community partnerships. Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED; graduate of (or trainee in) a Florida Basic Law Enforcement Academy.
- Valid Florida driver’s license (or ability to obtain within 45 days).
- Ability to pass comprehensive background, polygraph/CVSA, medical, and drug screening.
- Meet physical demands of medium/heavy work (lifting/pushing up to 100 lbs, running, climbing, etc.
). Out-of-state, federal, or military officers: Must obtain FDLE Equivalency of Training (EOT) approval (FDLE Form 76).