Summary

This entry-level position with the Michigan State Police introduces young adults to law enforcement through hands-on training and community support roles.

Cadets attend a short academy to learn skills like defensive tactics, first aid, and firearms handling, then assist with non-criminal tasks, ride-alongs, and special projects at a local post.

It's ideal for motivated high school graduates eager to explore policing as a career and make a positive impact in their communities.

Key Requirements

Possession of a high school diploma or GED certificate
At least 18 years old
Willingness to undergo a thorough background investigation for suitability in police work
Commitment to performing duties in a bias-free manner with respect and fairness to all
Interest in law enforcement and community service
Ability to complete a 5-day residential Cadet Training Academy

Full Job Description

Find your new career path. Join the MSP.

This position is available to those interested in the law enforcement profession.The Cadet Program will prepare you for recruit school and a career in law enforcement.

Upon successful completion of the 5-day residential Cadet Training Academy, cadets will begin to work at their assigned work location.

The Cadet Academy provides participants with: drive track instruction; defensive tactics; first aid; wellness; fingerprinting; firearms training and experience; report writing and review; and more.For those looking for a career serving the community, being a role model and making a difference in many lives, Michigan State Police has an opportunity for training and job placement with the state's law enforcement agency.

A Michigan State Police (MSP) Cadet will be exposed to a full range of law enforcement assignments.

An MSP Cadet is immersed into the role of an enforcement member to learn hands on skills to support communities.

This position will participate in the Community Service Trooper (CST) Program, non-criminal investigations, and other special projects and tasks, as assigned.

Cadets have the opportunity to ride-along with enforcement members exposing them to: criminal law and procedure, traffic law violations; criminal investigations; and a variety of related services to the public.

Additionally, cadets are able to shadow and learn the wide variety of agency services to include: bomb squad, K9 team, dive team, forensic science, special investigations, community service, cyber security, and more.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Michigan State Police is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace that accepts, respects, and values the unique contributions of everyone. We are actively looking for individuals who share our commitment to equity and inclusion, and who reflect the communities we serve. Our members are expected to perform their tasks and duties in a bias-free manner, ensuring all persons are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. Join us as we help build a Michigan where everyone feels safe and secure.

The Michigan State Police (MSP) is a full-service policing agency with statewide jurisdiction, providing over 60 different services either directly to Michigan residents or in support of other law enforcement agencies. The MSP personnel most visible to the public are the uniform troopers whose primary responsibilities include traffic enforcement, crime prevention and investigation, and community engagement and service.

Blue and gold MSP benefits info graphic summarizing insurance, paid leave, and other benefits contained in the text below, with representative icons.

Requirements

Education

Possession of a high school diploma or GED Certificate.

Experience

No specific type or amount is required.

Additional Information

Applicants must:

be willing to submit to a thorough investigation designed to measure the applicant's suitability for police work.
be at least 18 years old.
be a United States Citizen.
be absence of a criminal record of felony convictions that would prohibit the applicant from receiving, possessing, and carrying a firearm.
possess a valid driver's license and the ability to obtain a valid Michigan driver's license. Driver's license must be attached to this application.
have a satisfactory driving record.

NOTE: This is a temporary appointment and employees must continue to meet the minimum requirements to be eligible for appointment to a future State Police Training Academy Recruit School and/or continue satisfactory performance of assigned work activities for continued employment.

This position requires passing a pre-employment screening, including passing a drug screen, criminal history background check, and a fingerprint check by the Michigan State Police.

Cadets are permitted to work no more than 129 hours each calendar month.

Cadets must attend a 5-day residential training academy in Dimondale at the Michigan State Police Training Academy.

Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, and copy of a valid Michigan Driver's License.

Please note: Applicants will be screened out for failure to attach the required resume, cover letter, and official transcripts/proof of acceptance to an educational institution to their application.

View the entire job specification at: https://www.michigan.gov/mdcs/-/media/Project/Websites/mdcs/JOBSPECS/S/StatePoliceCadet.pdf

The State of Michigan has been recognized as a leading U.S. employer by new graduates from 2021-2023 and a best large U.S. and state employer. Recognized on the international stage for fostering positive employee engagement, the State of Michigan is a past recipient of a North America Government Agency Employees Engagement Award.