Montana Department of Justice - Academy Training Officer

Make a lasting impact. Train the next generation of Montana’s public safety professionals.

Location: Helena, Montana
Salary: $30.00 – $35.25 / Hourly
Application Deadline: August 21, 2025, at 11:59 PM (based on your computer's time zone)

The Montana Department of Justice Law Enforcement Academy is seeking experienced law enforcement officers, deputies, correctional professionals, or criminal justice trainers to join our team as an Academy Training Officer.

This is more than a job, it’s your chance to help shape the future of Montana’s law enforcement and public safety community by passing on your knowledge, skills, and experience to the next generation.

What You’ll Do:

As an Academy Training Officer, you will:

Develop and lead instruction across one or more public safety disciplines
Deliver classroom, scenario-based, and hands-on training to new recruits and experienced officers
Supervise and support both permanent and adjunct instructors
Evaluate trainee performance and provide critical feedback
Ensure training is realistic, relevant, and aligned with current law enforcement standards
Contribute to a positive and professional training environment
This role requires flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence. You'll be part of a tight-knit team that values integrity, discipline, and service.

Who We’re Looking For:

You have boots-on-the-ground experience in law enforcement or corrections and a desire to give back through coaching, teaching and mentorship.

We are especially interested in professionals who are:

Comfortable speaking in front of a group and leading hands-on instruction
Physically able and willing to engage in defensive tactics and scenario training
Self-driven and adaptable to changing training needs
Willing to teach subjects outside your original discipline with support and training

Minimum Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in education, criminal justice, organizational development, or related field
Experience: Two years of experience in training, teaching, or instructional roles
Note: A combination of education and field experience may be considered

Preferred Background & Skills:

Law enforcement or corrections experience strongly preferred
Knowledge of correctional operations and law enforcement procedures
Familiarity with adult learning principles
POST certification and current defensive tactics training experience (Jitsu background a plus)
Experience planning and managing training programs
Skilled in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Able to work extended hours during training cycles
Comfortable leading and mentoring others, even when not in a command role

Application must include:

Upload a current resume
Copy of your POST transcript
(Make sure to label all attachments as "Relevant File")

Special information:

If selected for an interview, you will be asked to deliver a 5-minute presentation.

What to Expect If Hired:

Background check (criminal history and fingerprints)
Driving record review
Intensive background investigation

Why Join Us?

Full-time, permanent role with the State of Montana
Comprehensive State of Montana health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family.
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Retirement plans plans for your future and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
Be part of a team dedicated to professionalism, teamwork, and innovation

Ready to Step Up and Lead the Next Generation? Help build a safer future — one recruit at a time.