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Police Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Police Intern information

What is a police intern?

Police interns are students or recent graduates who work with law enforcement agencies to gain practical experience in police work. They assist officers and staff with administrative tasks, community outreach, research, and sometimes ride-alongs, but they do not have arrest powers. Internships help participants learn about the criminal justice system, develop professional skills, and explore career opportunities in law enforcement. These positions are typically temporary and unpaid or modestly compensated, and they often require a background check and an application process.

What does a police intern do?

As a Police Intern, your daily responsibilities may include assisting with administrative work, observing officers during patrols, supporting community outreach programs, and helping with data entry or case file organization. Interns often have opportunities to attend briefings, participate in ride-alongs, and shadow different units to gain a well-rounded perspective of police operations. While direct involvement in law enforcement activities may be limited, you’ll collaborate closely with officers, detectives, and civilian staff, making this a valuable hands-on learning experience. Being proactive and eager to learn will help you make the most of your internship and may open doors for future opportunities within the department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police intern?

To thrive as a Police Intern, you generally need foundational knowledge of criminal justice, strong observation skills, and enrollment in or completion of relevant coursework. Familiarity with law enforcement databases, report writing software, and basic office systems is often required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and ethical judgment are important soft skills that help interns interact with the public and support officers effectively. These skills ensure that Police Interns can contribute meaningfully, learn quickly, and uphold the standards of law enforcement agencies.

What is the difference between Police Intern vs Police Cadet?

AspectPolice InternPolice Cadet
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; some programs may require college coursework
Work EnvironmentInternship programs within police departments, often part-time or seasonalCadet programs, often part-time, involving training and community engagement
Employer & Industry UsagePolice departments, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Police Interns typically participate in internships to gain exposure to law enforcement, often while in college, focusing on observation and learning. Police Cadets are usually high school or college students involved in training programs that prepare them for future roles in law enforcement, often with more hands-on activities. Both roles serve as entry points into law enforcement careers but differ mainly in their level of responsibility and program structure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Police jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Police jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Police Intern jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Police Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Police Intern job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Trooper (Michigan State Police Officer) Explorer Program / Statewide

State of Michigan

Dimondale, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $0.00 Hourly
Location : Statewide, MI
Job Type: Internship - Non Paid
Job Number: 5502-Explorer Program
Department: State Police Trooper Recruitment
Opening Date: 01/01/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Job Description
***This is An Unpaid Position***
The Michigan State Police Trooper Explorer Program is an educational youth program designed to expose individuals to a career in law enforcement through training and mentoring by department members of the Michigan State Police. Explorers will be working with department members to learn what a law enforcement career entails, serve the community, and develop their leadership ability. The location opportunities are listed within this posting.
Program participants will attend bi-weekly meetings, four hours each while maintaining a 70% attendance rate, consisting of either classroom instruction, scenario-based training, or specialty team demonstrations. These will be held at your assigned post.
They will also have the opportunity to volunteer at community events. Explorers can enroll in the program at any time. There is no requirement for personal or professional references to be provided.
All applicants must complete the and and attach it to your application. Please contact msprecruiting@michigan.gov with questions or in need of more information.
Explorers will have the opportunity to participate in:
  • Educational instruction based on topics such as wellness, law enforcement and professional development
  • Scenario based practical exercises
  • Leadership training, experience in leadership roles, and public speaking experience
  • Competitions with other police explorer programs
  • Community events

Required Education and Experience
Qualifications:
  • Must be between the ages of 14 - 21 years old.
  • Have good academic standing (2.0+ GPA).
  • No felony convictions.
  • Excellent moral character.

Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State of Michigan unpaid Intern positions do not include a comprehensive benefits plan.
01
Which of the following posts are you interested in participating in the explorer program with? Please select one.
  • Grand Rapids Post
  • Jackson Post
  • Lakeview Post
  • Marshall Post
  • Metro North (Oak Park) Post
  • Monroe Post
  • Tri-City Post
  • Calumet Post
  • Metro South

02
Are you able to attend bi-weekly meetings at your assigned post?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have a GPA of 2.0 or higher?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you between the ages of 14 - 21 years old?
  • Yes
  • No

05
This position requires candidates to be free of felony convictions. Are you able to comply with this requirement?
  • Yes
  • No

06
What makes you interested in the Trooper Explorer Program?
07
Have you attached the completed This document must be completed, signed, and attached to this application.
  • Yes
  • No

08
MSPSOR - Where did you see or hear about this job vacancy?
  • State of Michigan Job Opportunities Website
  • College Communications
  • Social Media - Facebook
  • Social Media - LinkedIn
  • Social Media - Twitter
  • Social Media - Other
  • Internet
  • Job/Career Fair
  • Family/Friend
  • Professional Association or organization
  • Newsletter
  • Billboard
  • Other

09
MSPCRIMHST - Please check all that apply.
  • Convicted of a felony (provide date, offense, location and disposition below)
  • Convicted of a misdemeanor (provide date, offense, location and disposition below)
  • Felony criminal charges are pending (please explain below)
  • None

10
MSPCRIMHST1 - If "Yes," please describe each with the respective date, offense, location, and disposition. If not applicable, please indicate N/A.
11
MSPNEP - Please review the For this selection, is there a potential to violate the policy?
  • Yes
  • No

12
MSPNEP1 - If you responded yes to potentially violating the , please provide the name and relationship of the individual. If none, please respond N/A.
Required Question

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