Public Safety Cadet (2nd process in 2026)

City of Kalamazoo; Kalamazoo (MI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Kalamazoo Police Department's Cadet Program welcomes applicants aiming for careers in law enforcement, firefighting, and EMS. Cadets receive broad training and participate in real-world assignments while exploring personal growth and service to the community.

Requirements include being 18+, having a high school diploma or GED, enrollment in college or trade school (with proof and a 2.0 GPA), passing a background check, a drug test, and a physical exam.

Qualifications

• Applicant must be 18 years or older at time of application.
• High school diploma or GED is required.
• Must be enrolled in an accredited college/university, or in a trade-school.
• Background investigation, drug test, and physical examination required.

Responsibilities

• Support police officers in daily duties and assist with administrative tasks.
• Engage with community members and participate in events to promote relations.
• Adhere to policies, report observations to supervisors, and maintain records.

Skills

Background investigation

Drug test

Physical examination

Valid Michigan Driver's License

U.S. Citizen

No felony convictions

Misdemeanors considered

Education

High School diploma or GED

Enrolled in college/university with proof of enrollment; 2.0 GPA minimum

Job description

Salary

• $16.00/hour - starting salary
• $17.00/hour - 6 month review
• $18.00/hour - 1 year review

GENERAL DUTIES

The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety Cadet Program is intended for those interested in a career in law enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical services. These individuals are offered a broad scope of training and work assignments to gain a better understanding of the career while being provided the opportunity to experience the personal rewards and challenges within the program.

Assisting Officers

• Support police officers in their daily duties
• Assist with administrative tasks such as filing reports, data entry, and maintaining records.

Community Interaction

• Engage with community members in a positive and professional manner.
• Participate in community events and initiatives to promote police-community relations.

Compliance and Reporting

• Adhere to departmental policies and procedures, including code of conduct and ethical standards.
• Report any observations or issues to supervisors in a timely and accurate manner.

In order to qualify for the cadet program, the candidate must be 18 years of age or older at the time of application, have a high school diploma or GED, and one of the following requirements must be met:

• Currently enrolled in classes at an accredited college or university and show proof of enrollment, with a 2.0 minimum grade point average (G.P.A.) requirement.
• Military veteran
• Enrolled in a trade-school. You will be required to show proof of enrollment.
• You will be required to pass a full background investigation and a drug test as well as a physical examination.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Have no felony convictions
• Misdemeanors will be considered on a case-by-case basis
• Successful completion of a Background Investigation
• Valid Michigan Drivers License
• Be a U.S. Citizen

The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications listed. The City of Kalamazoo is most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. If you have transferable experience, please tell us about it. This approach will give each current and potential employee the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the City of Kalamazoo.