(616) 456-3301
POLICE
CADET
PROGRAM
As a cadet (previously known as paid intern), you are the first person the community will see when they walk through the department's front door. You will write criminal and non-criminal reports, assist with impounds, administer PBTs, and help officers with miscellaneous duties. Cadets observe real-world situations with citizens. This experience allows you to develop decision-making, critical thinking, and communication skills, and prepares you for a career in the criminal justice system.
FOCUS ON SCHOOL
We realize that learning is the most important part of the college experience. As such, we work around your school schedule, only expecting you to work 18-24 hours a week, while helping to connect the classroom to the real world of law enforcement.
COMPETITIVE PAY
We pride ourselves on offering competitive pay for our cadets. Starting pay is $15.00 per hour and top pay is $17.00 per hour, which is one of the highest for any police cadet positions in the Metro Grand Rapids area.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Cadets are assigned in specialty units such as Community Engagement, Investigations (Detective/Vice Units), Dispatch, Special Response Team, Traffic Unit, and Training Unit.
There are also opportunities to participate in police ride-alongs, role-playing for law enforcement training, and community-oriented events.
SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS
I began working as a Police Cadet in 2001. As a Cadet I wrote police reports, did ride-alongs and learned many aspects of the profession. This cadet position helped set me up for success when I became a Police Officer.
Sergeant Joe Drelles
Being a Police Cadet has helped me gain a lot of insight into what the Police world is all about. The best part about the job is getting to meet and talk to new people every day. If you are interested in learning more about Law Enforcement, I 100% recommend applying to become a cadet to get your foot in the door. I have worked for the Front Desk and Detective Unit, I have role-played for the Special Response Team and have gone on a few ride-alongs! There is so much more that I have done and I am grateful for all the opportunities that GRPD has given me! I am excited to continue my education and experience here at the Grand Rapids Police Department.
Intern Sara Nguyen
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A CADET?
Applicants must meet the following criteria before they are eligible for employment:
Be a full-time college student (at least 9 credits)
Maintain at least a 2.0 GPA
Possess good moral character
Possess good reading and writing skills
Be at least 18 years of age
Possess a valid drivers license, and
Be able to work between 18-24 hours a week
WHAT IS THE HIRING PROCESS LIKE?
Step 1: Talk to a recruiter
Step 2: Fill out an interest form
Step 3: Apply in NEOGOV
Step 4: Go to the initial interview
Step 5: Fill out the Personal History Statement and return it within 14 days
Step 6: Complete background investigation and interview
WILL I NEED TO WORK HOLIDAYS?
The police department never closes and interns are staffed from 6am - midnight. Even though someone has to be working, cadets are allowed to switch shifts so they can have time off or work. Pay is time and a half for those working federal holidays.
IS THIS JOB DANGEROUS?
The safety of our cadets is of the utmost importance. The cadet work area is behind bulletproof glass, each cadet is issued a bulletproof vest that must be worn while on duty, and police officers are regularly close by. On top of all of this, Grand Rapids is one of the safest large cities in the United States.
WHAT TRAINING WILL I RECEIVE?
Cadets receive five weeks of field training. They learn where different units are in the police department, city geography, how to write police reports, department policy, how to use the phones, and much more. You will be taught all that you need to know by a senior cadet you are partnered with for training.
QUESTIONS? TALK TO A RECRUITER!
