This is entry level law enforcement work for the purpose of training to become a Police Officer. The primary function in this classification is to successfully complete the Florida Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Academy program and the State Officer Certification Exam. The police academy consists of 770 hours of training and takes twenty-two weeks to complete.  It is offered through the Eastern Florida State College Criminal Justice Program on the Melbourne campus. 

Upon successful completion of the Law Enforcement Academy and the State Exam, the recruit will be reclassified to the position of Police Officer with the Palm Bay Police Department.

While attending the Basic Recruit Academy program all Palm Bay PD sponsored recruits are paid a stipend of $1,702.69 bi-weekly plus offered health insurance benefits. Additionally, the Palm Bay Police Department pays for all academy expenses including tuition & lab fees, textbooks, and uniforms.

For more information on the Florida Law Enforcement Basic Recruit Academy program, including upcoming and future start dates as well as program requirements, please visit: Eastern Florida State College website

To apply for a Non-Certified Recruit academy sponsorship position please visit: City of Palm Bay Employment Opportunities website

Police Academy Information

To learn about our local police academy at Eastern Florida State College, please visit the Eastern Florida State College website.