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Police Cadets Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Kentwood

Police Cadet

Kentwood, MI · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

The City of Kentwood is seeking applicants for Police Cadets in the Kentwood Police Department. The hourly pay range for this position is $15.00 - $17.00 per hour. The City of Kentwood offers free ...

City of Hampton

Police Cadet

Hampton, VA

$35K - $38K/yr

The City of Hampton is seeking Police Cadets to assist sworn police officers and the community. This class works under close supervision according to set procedures. Minimum Requirements Requires ...

City of Des Moines

Police Cadet

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$23.33 - $27.63/hr

Police Cadets are required to take and pass the Police Officer Selection Test (POST) as part of the application process. The POST exam is scheduled for August 10, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Invitations will ...

City of Colleyville

Police Officer

Colleyville, TX

$6.6K - $7.9K/mo

SALARY RANGE: $80,072 - $95,285 annually (Police Cadets earn $6,028.64 monthly while in the Academy) SIGN-ON INCENTIVE PROGRAM: $5,000 sign-on bonus for certified/laterals $2,500 sign-on bonus for ...

DC Government Careers

Police Cadet

Washington, DC · On-site

$38K - $50K/yr

Cadets are 17-24 year-old uniformed civilian employees, working for the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) while attending the University of the District of Columbia. The Department funds up to 60 ...

City of Vallejo

Police Cadet

Vallejo, CA

$21 - $25/hr

Police Cadets who successfully obtain said degree or 60 semester / 90 quarter units in Criminal Justice or related field may attend, at the Department's expense, a police academy with the goal of ...

City of Vallejo, CA

Police Cadet

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Police Cadets who successfully obtain said degree or 60 semester / 90 quarter units in Criminal Justice or related field may attend, at the Department's expense, a police academy with the goal of ...

City of Asheville

Police Cadet

Asheville, NC

$23.38/hr

Starting basic salary for Police Cadets/Trainees is $47,915.10. Upon completion of the academy and obtaining certification from the state, the salary will increase to $50,309.74. Career Ladder and ...

City of Asheville, NC

Police Cadet

Asheville, NC · On-site

$23.38/hr

Starting basic salary for Police Cadets/Trainees is $47,915.10. Upon completion of the academy and obtaining certification from the state, the salary will increase to $50,309.74. Career Ladder and ...

City of Huntington Park, CA

Police Cadet

Huntington Park, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $21.79/hr

Police Cadets can be assigned to any other division within the Police department to perform Non-Peace Officer duties as related; this position requires evening, weekend and holiday work; and performs ...

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How much do police cadets jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for police cadets in the United States is $23.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do police cadets carry guns?

Police cadets typically do not carry guns unless they are authorized and have completed specific training and certification. Their primary role is to observe, learn, and assist under supervision, with firearm privileges usually granted only after advancing in the program and meeting departmental requirements.

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 solid educational background (often a high school diploma), physical fitness, and a clean legal record. Training involves learning to use law enforcement tools, such as radios, patrol vehicles, and basic report writing systems. Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, discipline, and a commitment to community service help cadets stand out. These skills are crucial for developing into effective police officers who can serve and protect their communities with professionalism and integrity.

Are police cadets paid?

Police cadets are typically paid a stipend or salary during their training period, which can vary by department. Compensation often depends on the location, department policies, and whether the cadet is enrolled in a formal program that includes benefits and scheduled hours.

Which actor is a cop in real life?

Several actors have played police officers and are also real-life law enforcement officers. For example, actor Terry Crews has served as a reserve police officer, and some actors like Daniel Dae Kim have trained in law enforcement for roles. However, most actors portray cops as part of their acting careers without being actual officers.

What is the difference between Police Cadets vs Police Officers?

AspectPolice CadetsPolice Officers
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some agencies may require college courseworkHigh school diploma or GED; police academy training
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often in a controlled setting or on patrol as traineesActive duty in various law enforcement settings
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement agencies during training programsFull-time law enforcement personnel

Police cadets are trainees gaining experience and training within law enforcement agencies, often before becoming full officers. Police officers are fully sworn law enforcement personnel responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining public safety. The main difference lies in their experience level and responsibilities, with cadets in training and officers actively performing law enforcement duties.

What are some typical challenges Police Cadets face during their training period?

Police Cadets often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physical and mental demands of training, learning to follow strict protocols, and developing effective communication skills under pressure. The structured environment may also require adjusting to teamwork with diverse peers and handling constructive feedback from instructors. Overcoming these hurdles is a key part of the learning process and prepares cadets for the responsibilities of full-time law enforcement roles.

Can police cadets make arrests?

Police cadets are typically not authorized to make arrests. Their role is usually limited to supporting law enforcement officers and gaining experience, and they often need to complete training and meet specific legal requirements before they can carry out arrests independently.

What are Police Cadets?

Police Cadets are young individuals, often between the ages of 16 and 21, who participate in training programs designed to introduce them to law enforcement careers. These programs provide cadets with basic knowledge of police work, including community service, traffic control, and crime prevention. Cadets often assist with non-enforcement duties and receive mentorship from experienced officers, preparing them for potential future roles as police officers. Participation in a police cadet program can be an excellent stepping stone for those interested in a career in law enforcement.
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Police Cadets jobs near you
Police Cadet, University Police

Police Cadet, University Police

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, TX • On-site

$71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

UT Southwestern rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 875 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Why UT Southwestern Police Department?
The UT Southwestern Medical Center Police Department is a component member of the University of Texas System. Officers of the University of Texas System Police have been serving and protecting the UT System community since 1968, Providing law enforcement and security-related services. Help to protect and serve the Dallas community at William P. Clements Jr. University Hospital and our other locations. Ranked as the #1 hospital in Dallas-Fort Worth for the eighth consecutive year, we invite you to continue your public safety career with us at UT Southwestern in our police department to help protect and safeguard our community. You'll discover a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and consistent opportunities to grow your police career.
Job Summary
UT Southwestern Medical Center is currently seeking Police Cadets to join our team in Dallas, Texas. As a police cadet, you will assist experienced police officers in various tasks, learn about police procedures and protocols, engage in the community, and prepare for the responsibilities of a full-fledged police officer. As a police cadet with UTSW, you will be enrolled in the Texas Policy Academy at no cost to you to help you advance your police career .
The police department is pleased to offer our team outstanding benefits that you're eligible for on day one of employment.
  • $0 Cost Employee Only Healthcare Benefits
  • Generous PTO and Holidays
  • Weekend and Holiday Pay
  • Career Growth
  • Certification Pay
  • Uniforms and Dry Cleaning Provided

Join the UT Southwestern police department today and get started on a journey of growth in your police office career!
Starting salary for Cadet is $71,935. Additional benefits include:
  • Shift differential Pay
  • Weekend and Holiday Pay
  • Certification Pay
  • Uniforms and dry cleaning provided
Education and Experience
Required
Education
High School Diploma or GED. and
Must attend and satisfactory complete a Texas Police Academy, qualifying for commissioning as peace officer of the University of Texas System Police within 15 calendar days of completion of a basic Peace Officer Training Course.
Licenses and Certifications
DRIVERS LICENSE and acceptable UT System Driver Rating.
Job Duties
  • Attends classes and maintains comprehensive notebooks. Completes homework assignments.
  • Participates in physical training program, firearms training, defensive tactics program, and practical problems. Actively participates in classroom discussions and group projects.
  • Complies with established rules and regulations governing the Police Academy.
  • Complies with assignments and instructions given by Director of Police, of University of Texas System, or by any members of Academy staff and/or Director/Staff of approved Academy.
  • Adheres to respective component institution policies of police department relating to personal status and attendance at Academy.
  • Adheres to the University of Texas System Police Code of Conduct and Rules and Regulations promulgated by Board of Regents of University of Texas System.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Security
This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.
EEO Statement
UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

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