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Police Cadet Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Police Cadet

Novato, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.10/hr

Continuous Until Filled Police Cadet is a non-sworn, professional staff, part-time position. The basic function of Police Cadet is to relieve the sworn personnel of a variety of tasks which do not ...

Police Cadet

Novato, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.10/hr

Continuous Until Filled Police Cadet is a non-sworn, professional staff, part-time position. The basic function of Police Cadet is to relieve the sworn personnel of a variety of tasks which do not ...

Police Officer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$7.5K - $9.1K/mo

District Police Opening Date: 03/28/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Description FIRST APPLICATION ... Field Training Officer, POST-certified Instructor, Detective, Cadet Coordinator. * Retirement

Police Cadet information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do police cadet jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for police cadet in Santa Rosa, CA is $25.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $31.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police cadet?

Police Cadets are individuals, often young adults or students, who participate in a training program designed to introduce them to careers in law enforcement. These programs provide cadets with education in police procedures, community service, and physical training under the supervision of experienced officers. Police Cadets may assist with administrative tasks, traffic control, and community outreach, but they do not have full police powers. The goal is to prepare cadets for potential future roles as police officers while giving them practical experience and mentorship.

What kinds of training and mentorship can a police cadet expect during their first year?

New Police Cadets typically undergo a structured training program that combines classroom instruction with practical field exercises. During the first year, cadets receive mentorship from experienced officers, participate in ride-alongs, and learn essential skills like report writing, communication, and community engagement. The environment is supportive but challenging, as cadets are encouraged to ask questions, learn from feedback, and gradually take on more responsibilities. This foundation helps prepare cadets for successful advancement within the department and future roles as sworn officers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police cadet, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police Cadet, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic knowledge of law enforcement principles, and physical fitness. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, radio communication systems, and first aid certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, discipline, and the ability to handle stressful situations help cadets excel. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring public safety, effective teamwork, and preparedness for a future career as a sworn officer.

What is the difference between Police Cadet vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice CadetPolice Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some agencies may require college courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often unpaid or low-paid; supervised activitiesActive duty in the field; law enforcement responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies during training or as entry-level roleFull-time law enforcement personnel

Police cadets are typically in training or entry-level positions within law enforcement agencies, focusing on learning and assisting. Police officers are fully sworn personnel responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining public safety. The cadet role serves as a stepping stone toward becoming a police officer.

Do police cadets get paid?

Police cadets typically receive a stipend or hourly pay during their training and internship periods, which can vary by department. Compensation is often part of the program to support students or trainees gaining law enforcement experience. Some departments may also offer benefits or opportunities for advancement after completing the cadet program.

Is being a police cadet hard?

Being a police cadet can be challenging as it involves rigorous physical training, learning law enforcement procedures, and developing communication skills. The role often requires dedication, discipline, and the ability to handle stressful situations while gaining practical experience in policing environments.

What do police cadets do in the police?

Police cadets assist law enforcement officers with various tasks such as patrolling, traffic control, and community outreach. They often participate in training programs to learn about law enforcement procedures and may perform administrative duties under supervision.

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Police Cadet jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Police Cadet job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Cadet job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,366 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

$19 - $23.10/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary: $19.00 - $23.10 Hourly
Location : 922 Machin Avenue, Novato, CA
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 2026-13
Department: Police
Opening Date: 05/11/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description
Come Join Our Team!
THE CITY OF NOVATO IS RECRUITING
FOR

POLICE CADET
(This position is part time, non-benefitted with a maximum of 960 hours annually)
Application Deadline: Continuous Until Filled
Police Cadet is a non-sworn, professional staff, part-time position. The basic function of Police Cadet is to relieve the sworn personnel of a variety of tasks which do not require the training and status of a peace officer. Police Cadets are required to wear uniforms but are unarmed. After training, Police Cadets are expected to work under limited supervision.
This is an entry level position for the Police Department, law enforcement experience is not required.
Example of Duties
Under the supervision of a department supervisor, Police Cadets assist various operational and support functions of the police department, including Patrol, Traffic, and Support Services. Police Cadet job duties will be varied, depending on their assignment, but at a minimum will entail assisting community members, helping officers, maintaining police equipment, and other duties as requested.
Typical Qualifications
Police Cadet Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
Knowledge of:
  • Use of office equipment including computer/software, copier, telephone
  • Telephone etiquette
  • Correct English usage/grammar/spelling/punctuation and vocabulary
  • Basic math

Skills:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively and courteously communicate in-person and by telephone.
  • Customer service skills, preferably with a minimum of one (1) year of experience providing satisfactory customer service.
  • Proficiency in using various computer programs including Windows; experience with Microsoft Office programs preferred.
  • Proficiency using various social media platforms.

Abilities:
  • Exercise sound judgement and function effectively under stress
  • Accurately observe situations
  • Prepare and maintain clear and concise reports, files, and department records
  • Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work. Meet schedules and timelines.
  • Ability to perform arithmetic applications to perform purchasing and financial transactions.
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes which permit the employee to lift 25 pounds of material.
  • Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes which permits the employee to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods of time in both an office environment and outside environment.

Additional Information
WORKING CONDITIONS
Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:
Physical Skills: Able to use standard office equipment, including a computer; sit, stand, walk, kneel, crouch, stoop, squat, twist, and maintain sustained posture in a seated or standing position for prolonged periods of time; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate in person, over the telephone, and to make public presentations; lift and carry up to 30lbs of files, and materials.
Work Environment: Mobility to work in a typical office and/or field setting.
Ability to: Travel to different sites and locations; drive safely to different sites and locations; maintain a safe driving record; work protracted and irregular hours and evening meetings or off shift work for meeting attendance or participation in specific projects or programs; available for evening meetings.
SELECTION PROCESS
It is important to complete all required application materials, including the supplemental questionnaire and any required additional documents. All applications will be screened for completeness and possession of minimum qualifications. Qualified applications will be reviewed in detail to identify the most qualified candidates to continue in the selection process which may consist solely of an application screening, or may include a written examination, skills assessment, oral appraisal interview, assessment center, or other activity selected by the Human Resources Department and the hiring department. As a result of the selection process an eligibility list of qualified candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies as long as the eligibility list remains active. Candidates who score the highest in the selection process will be required to pass a reference and background exam prior to receiving a conditional job offer. Candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to pass a pre-employment medical and drug screen examination prior to receiving a final job offer.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Only Online Applications will be accepted. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, candidates must complete an online application and the required supplemental questionnaire. The supplemental questionnaire is part of the application; please provide sufficient detail to enable your answers to be rated.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Continuous Until Filled
Accommodation: Applicants who may require special assistance in any step of the selection process should advise Human Resources by emailing hr@novato.org upon submittal of application.
The City of Novato is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Part Time Hourly employees are not eligible for benefits or to earn any vacation time.
Per AB 1522, hourly employees accrue paid sick leave at the rate of at least one (1) hour per every 30 hours worked - beginning on the first date of employment.
Part Time Hourly employees are covered under the City's workers compensation insurance.
01
I understand that this position requires that I successfully complete and pass a background check, pre-employment physical, fingerprinting (LiveScan), drug screen, and Chief's interview.
  • Yes
  • No

02
I certify that all information provided on my application and supplemental questionnaire is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge; and I understand that all information is subject to verification; and that false or incomplete information will result in disqualification from the selection process or dismissal, if hired.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question