Court Officer Trainee
COURT OFFICER - TRAINEE POSITIONS WITH THE NYS COURTS
Opportunity knocks! Don’t miss the state exam registration deadline. Register today!
Protect. Serve. Lead. Your future as a New York State Court Officer begins here. The New York State Unified Court System is seeking Court Officers for statewide positions. Exam registration deadline is May 14, 2026. Exams will be held statewide from Wednesday, August 26, 2026, to Wednesday, October 7, 2026. Applicants must take and pass the computer-based, multiple-choice Court Officers exam.
New York State Court Officers are dedicated peace officers, that play a critical role in ensuring safety, security & orderly courtroom and courthouse operations. This is a great opportunity for possible career growth and advancement through exams and opportunities to serve in specialized units.
Job Description:
New York State Court Officer-Trainees serve a two-year traineeship during which time they are responsible for maintaining order and providing security in courtrooms, court buildings, and grounds. After completion of formal training at the Academy, NYS Court Officer- Trainees may be assigned to all trial courts and court agencies to begin the on-the-job training portion of their traineeship which will include training in court operations and security needs. NYS Court Officer-Trainees are peace officers required to wear uniforms, and may be authorized to carry firearms, execute warrants, make arrests and perform other related duties. At the end of the two-year traineeship, successful candidates will be promoted from a NYS Court Officer-Trainee (JG-16) to a New York State Court Officer (JG-19).
COMPENSATION
Starting Salary (2026): $58,100
Location Pay (Additional):
+$4,920 location pay in NYC, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester & Rockland
+$2,460 location pay in Orange, Dutchess & Putnam.
WHY WORK FOR THE NYS COURTS
Competitive Compensation ($58,100 – $63,020 per year, depending on location)
Regular Work Schedule (no nights, weekends or mandated overtime)
13 Paid Holidays
13 Paid Sick Leave Days
20 Paid Vacation Days in the First Year
27 Paid Vacation Days by the Seventh Year
Paid Parental Leave
Comprehensive Health Insurance
Exam Information: https://ww2.nycourts.gov/exampagecot2026
Direct Registration Link: https://iapps.courts.state.ny.us/OC/Application?0 ** (select the exam site where you would like to take the exam) **
Minimum Qualifications:
Be at least 20.5 years old
Possess a high school diploma or the equivalent
Be a citizen of the United States
Be a resident of New York State
Possess a valid New York State Driver's License
Be legally eligible to carry firearms
Candidates must successfully complete four (4) months of a paid training program at the NYS Court Officers Academy.
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Physical, medical, and psychological examinations will be conducted to ensure that candidates are able to perform the duties of this position satisfactorily.