Pathways Police Cadet

Job Responsibilities

Training and Program Participation
* Attend and actively participate in all required education and law enforcement skills training.
* Complete assigned coursework and meet all academic performance standards.
* Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and adherence to program expectations.

Physical Readiness
* Maintain physical conditioning to meet program requirements and successfully complete skills training components.

Licensure and Employment Commitment
* Achieve eligibility for licensure through the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training.
* Commit to a minimum of two (2) years of employment as a sworn police officer with UMPD following successful program completion.

Working Conditions
* Combination of classroom instruction and physical skills training.
* Must meet academic, physical fitness, and professional conduct standards throughout the program.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Bargaining unit consideration begins on 05/19/2026 and ends on 05/26/2026.

This is an in-person position.

Shift/Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Required Qualifications
* Associate's or Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution (in any field) by time of appointment.
* Must be a U.S. citizen.
* Valid driver's license or ability to obtain prior to start date.
* No felony convictions.
* Must not have previously completed a Minnesota Skills Program or taken the Minnesota POST licensing or reciprocity exam.

Preferred Qualifications
* Fluency in a second language, including reading and writing proficiency.
* Translator or interpreter certification.
* Experience working with or living in culturally diverse communities.
* Demonstrated cultural competency and community engagement experience relevant to law enforcement.

The University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD) is recruiting qualified cadets to participate in an accelerated education and skills training program leading to eligibility for licensure as a Minnesota Peace Officer. This structured program combines academic coursework and hands-on skills training.
Pathways to Policing cadets are extended conditional employment for the duration of the training program. Upon successful completion and achievement of licensure eligibility, employees will transition to the position of Probationary Police Officer.

Pay Range: $23.17- $30.58; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the
time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures
that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while
maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and
equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates
will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online through the University of Minnesota employment system.
Please include:
* Resume
* Cover Letter
* Proof of education (if requested)

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.