Police Cadet

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Position Title: Police Cadet Public Safety
Position Summary:
The Police Cadet is an entry-level position designed for individuals who are actively undergoing training to become police officers. As a cadet, the primary responsibility is attending a police academy and completing the necessary training to meet the rigorous standards required by the Police Academy and Colorado POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training). During this period, cadets may assist with certain department functions, engage in community-based activities, and support the overall mission of the Sterling Police Department in maintaining public safety. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain foundational law enforcement experience while preparing for a future role as a fully certified police officer.

PRIMARY PURPOSE

The primary function of the Police Cadet is to fully engage in the training and education provided at the police academy, working toward meeting the standards required by the Police Academy and Colorado POST. While in training, the cadet will observe and learn police practices and procedures, study law enforcement codes and statues, and develop the necessary skills and knowledge to become a certified police officer. The cadet's main responsibility is to focus on their educational development, preparing for a future role as a police officer with the Sterling Police Department.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the general supervision of the Police Corporal, Sergeant, Commander, and/or Police Chief, the Police Cadet will be expected to assist in the following duties as part of their academy training:

• Training and Academy Attendance:
  Attend a certified Police Academy full-time, meeting all academy standards, including physical fitness, academic performance, and practical law enforcement skills. The Police Cadet will complete all requirements necessary for successful academy graduation and POST certification.
• Law Enforcement Education:
  Study law enforcement practices under the guidance of academy instructors, focusing on areas such as case law, Colorado C.R.S., arrest control, driving, firearms qualification, and less lethal tactics. Engage in academic and hands-on training exercises as part of the academy curriculum.
• Practical Skills Development:
  Participate in training exercises designed to build competence in arrest control, firearms handling, driving techniques, and the proper use of less-lethal devices, including Taser. These activities are aimed at preparing the cadet for real-world law enforcement situations once certified.
• Classroom Learning and Case Study Analysis:
  Engage in classroom instruction covering topics such as criminal law, constitutional law, and procedural guidelines. Analyze case studies to understand the application of law enforcement practices and decision-making processes.
• Physical Fitness and Tactical Training:
  Meet physical fitness requirements set by the academy to develop strength, endurance, and agility necessary for the physical demands of law enforcement. Participate in tactical training to learn critical response techniques in various law enforcement scenarios.
• Simulation and Role-Playing:
  Engage in simulated law enforcement scenarios to practice response tactics, decision-making, and communication skills. These scenarios may include mock arrests, traffic stops, and emergency response situations, providing cadets with valuable hands-on experience.
• Safety and Equipment Training:
  Learn the proper use, care, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other law enforcement tools, such as firearms and less-lethal devices, as part of the academys safety training. Adhere to safety standards and protocols during all training exercises.
• Testing and Certification Preparation:
  Complete all required written and practical tests to demonstrate mastery of academy material, including law enforcement protocols, defensive tactics, and legal procedures. Prepare for POST certification exams by ensuring full comprehension of all training areas.
• Behavioral and Ethical Development:
  Adhere to high standards of professionalism and ethics, both in and outside the academy setting. Develop an understanding of the ethical responsibilities and legal constraints that govern law enforcement officers.
• Communication and Reporting Skills:
  Receive training in effective communication techniques, including report writing, documentation, and verbal communication skills, which are necessary for future law enforcement duties. Develop an understanding of proper documentation practices as required by the academy and POST standards.

The Sterling Police Department Police Cadet program is designed to help excellent, non-sworn candidates start a career as a Sterling Police Recruit. Cadets are hired as civilian positions and sponsored by the SPD to attend a Colorado P.O.S.T. ( Police Officers Standards and Training) certification program. This offers the opportunity to build a foundation upon which they may become fulltime Police Officers. Upon successfully graduating with a P.O.S.T. certificate, Cadets are sworn in as a Sterling Police Officer and enter the field training program.

Essential functions:

The Cadet's job is to properly represent the Sterling Police Department while attending a P.O.S.T. academy, and to successfully obtain a P.O.S.T. certificate. Tuition and living expenses are covered during the academy, plus a $2,153.85 bi-weekly stipend while attending.

After graduation and upon being sworn in as a Sterling Police Officer, the Cadet transitions to a fulltime Police Officer ( Salary $2,307.69 bi-weekly ).

QUALIFICATIONS

The qualifications for this position are designed to provide the necessary foundation to assist with law enforcement duties while preparing for a future police officer role that meets academy and Colorado POST standards.

Knowledge:
Understanding of basic law enforcement practices and procedures.
Familiarity with local, state, and federal laws, especially those related to public safety.
Basic knowledge of crime prevention and community safety practices.
Strong communication skills, including public speaking and report writing.
Ability to follow instructions and adhere to department and academy standards.

Abilities:
Ability to meet physical and mental standards set by the Police Academy and Colorado POST.
Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with the public and fellow officers.
Attention to detail in administrative tasks, including report preparation and data entry.
Ability to learn quickly, adapt to new situations, and follow safety protocols.
Capacity to work as part of a team, assisting officers in various situations.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform physical tasks such as walking, standing, and lifting objects up to 25 pounds.
Maintain focus and alertness during training exercises, including those required by the Police Academy.
Visual and hearing abilities sufficient for safe participation in field operations and office duties.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires the ability to work in varying weather conditions and both office and field settings. Police Cadets may work with emergency response teams and assist in real-life incidents or simulations as part of their training, ensuring compliance with Colorado POST guidelines.

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS

Attendance at department-sponsored meetings, events, and training sessions, including those related to Police Academy attendance.
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and rotating shifts as part of the cadet training schedule.
Potential on-call availability for assisting officers in emergencies or training exercises.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND TRAINING

Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

Experience:
No prior law enforcement experience required.
Prior experience in community service, public safety, or similar fields may be beneficial.

Certifications/Training:
Enrollment or completion of a Police Academy program or similar law enforcement training is preferred but not required.
CPR/First Aid Certification preferred.

Special Requirements:
Valid CO drivers license (or the ability to obtain one).
U.S. Citizenship and a minimum age of 18 years.
Ability to meet residency requirements, if applicable.
Ability to pass background checks and eligibility for future law enforcement certification in line with Colorado POST standards.