POLICE CADET

Police Cadet Program

Are you ready to embark on a career dedicated to serving and protecting your community? The City of Gastonia Police Department values integrity, professionalism, and excellence, and we're looking for motivated individuals who share these principles to join our team as Cadets. As Cadets, individuals gain the invaluable knowledge and experience needed to be successful law enforcement officers while also earning a base salary. The City of Gastonia Police Cadet Program is a trainee position for candidates interested in starting a career in law enforcement but lacking Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET). BLET is an academy offered for individuals interested in completing the certification requirements to become a law enforcement officer in North Carolina. BLET provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for entry-level employment as law enforcement officers with the state, county, or municipal governments. During BLET, 36 topics and methods of instruction are covered such as criminal, juvenile, civil, traffic, and alcohol beverage laws; investigative, patrol, custody, and court procedures; emergency responses; and ethics and community relations. Upon completing the BLET course and the training program, Cadets will become Police Officers I, II, or III based on their education.

While in BLET, individuals must be able to perform or have knowledge of each function satisfactorily and be able to attend classes regularly, as attendance is mandatory. The following aspects are typical attributes individuals need to successfully pass BLET courses :

• Knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, practices, and procedures; Some knowledge of practices, materials, techniques, and equipment pertinent to job assignment
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; Ability to read and write at a 12th grade level
• Ability to meet and speak with members of the community with courtesy and tactfulness; Ability and willingness to establish and maintain effective working relationships with superiors, subordinates, and the general public
• Ability to use computer and applicable software applications; learn standard broadcasting procedures of a police radio system
• Ability to analyze situations accurately and use sound judgment in selecting quick, effective, and responsible courses of action; Ability to and willingness to act quickly and properly in emergencies

Understanding of basic law enforcement principles, procedures, and protocols.

Knowledge of the criminal justice system, including laws, regulations, and legal processes.

Understanding the principles of community policing and the importance of building positive relationships with community members.

Knowledge of emergency response protocols and procedures to effectively handle various situations.

Understanding of ethical standards and professional conduct expected of law enforcement officers

Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with colleagues, superiors, and members of the public.

Ability to think critically and make sound decisions in challenging and fast-paced situations.

Skill in identifying problems, evaluating alternatives, and implementing effective solutions.

Ability to resolve conflicts and de-escalate tense situations using diplomacy and negotiation skills.

Good physical condition and endurance to perform essential job functions, including running, lifting, and engaging in physical confrontations if necessary.

Ability to work effectively as part of a team and collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals.

Flexibility and adaptability to respond to changing circumstances and unexpected challenges.

Strong attention to detail to accurately document incidents, gather evidence, and follow established procedures.

Minimally qualified starting pay : $24.5701

The application and interviewing process will need to be completed entirely to qualify for enrollment in one of the following participating colleges with BLET courses for 2025

The Physical Activity of this position includes :

The physical requirements of this position include :

The visual acuity requirements include color, depth perception, and field of vision : The work requires close visual acuity to perform one or more of the following :

The conditions the worker will be subject to in this position include :