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Police Cadet Program

Through the program, we offer paid, civilian positions with benefits in the Boston Police Department.

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We’re looking for people interested in a career in law enforcement while gaining experience in our community policing model. Our Cadet Program is a two-year commitment.

Cadets work under the direction of the superintendent of the Boston Police Academy. We provide classroom training and cooperative education. You’ll also receive specific, on-the-job training.

About the program

Our cadets learn about how the Police Department operates, and our culture of work.

We give cadets temporary assignments in our districts and headquarters. Cadets also take part in community policing and interact with citizens and visitors of Boston. We aim to develop and refine important qualities in our cadets. These include maturity, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership.

Cadet preference

Cadets may also receive preference on the list of eligible candidates for a police recruit class if:

  • they complete the two-year cadet program, and
  • pass the Civil Service Police Exam.
BENEFITS

Our benefits and compensation package includes:

  • Starting salary of $28,971 (as of January 2021)
  • Dental and health benefits
  • Annual vacation and sick leave
  • Potential overtime
ELIGIBILITY

To qualify for the program, you must:

  • be between the ages of 18 and 25
  • have a high school diploma or GED
  • be a current resident of Boston, and must have maintained Boston residency for the last five (5) years, and
  • have a valid Massachusetts drivers license (good driving record preferred).

How to apply

During an open application period, register and apply online through the City’s Career Center.

APPLICATION PROCESS

We review all applications. Here’s a sample timeline:

  1. Initial phone interview and screening of selected candidates
  2. Formal interview
  3. Background investigation
  4. Drug screening
  5. Medical evaluation, including vision and hearing
  6. Psychological test
  7. Ability to meet physical fitness standards (Massachusetts Police Training Committee)
FROM CADET TO SUCCESS

Cadets serve as an extension of our officers. They gain valuable insight into our community policing model. Aside from general duties, cadets also:

  • engage with community groups
  • attend professional development workshops, and
  • receive training.

Many of our Cadets choose to pursue careers as police officers. A few notable, former Boston Police Cadets include:

  • former Commissioner William Gross
  • former Commissioner William Evans, and
  • former Superintendent of the Bureau of Professional Development Lisa Holmes.

Who's Involved:

Police
617-343-4500
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