Job Description
The Sterling Police Department Police Cadet program is designed to help excellent, non-sworn candidates start a career as a Sterling Police Recruit. Cadets are hired as civilian positions and sponsored by the SPD to attend a Colorado P.O.S.T. (Police Officers Standards and Training) certification program. This offers the opportunity to build a foundation upon which they may become full-time Police Officers. Upon successfully graduating with a P.O.S.T. certificate, Cadets are sworn in as a Sterling Police Officer and enter the field training program.
The full job description for the Police Officer position can be found here: Police Officer Job Description.
Recruitment Notice
The City of Sterling Police Department is currently recruiting candidates for assignment to a Colorado P.O.S.T. academy, with anticipated academies in August 2026 or January 2027 depending on staffing needs. Academy placement is not guaranteed; qualified candidates may be placed on an eligibility list for future consideration.
The Cadet's job is to properly represent the Sterling Police Department while attending a P.O.S.T. academy, and to successfully obtain a P.O.S.T. certificate. Tuition and living expenses are covered during the academy, plus a $2,385.46 bi-weekly stipend while attending.
Cadets will be required to enter into a four-year agreement with the City of Sterling requiring repayment of academy-related expenses if they do not fulfill the full four-year commitment from their date of hire.
After graduation and upon being sworn in as a Sterling Police Officer, the Cadet transitions to a full-time Police Officer.(Salary $2,650.50 bi-weekly/$68,913 annually.)
Essential Functions & Responsibilities
Under the general supervision of the Police Corporal, Sergeant, Commander, and/or Police Chief, the Police Cadet will be expected to assist in the following duties as part of their academy training:
Training and Academy Attendance
Attend a certified Police Academy full-time, meeting all academy standards, including physical fitness, academic performance, and practical law enforcement skills. The Police Cadet will complete all requirements necessary for successful academy graduation and POST certification.
Law Enforcement Education
Study law enforcement practices under the guidance of academy instructors, focusing on areas such as case law, Colorado C.R.S., arrest control, driving, firearms qualification, and less lethal tactics. Engage in academic and hands-on training exercises as part of the academy curriculum.
Practical Skills Development
Participate in training exercises designed to build competence in arrest control, firearms handling, driving techniques, and the proper use of less-lethal devices, including Taser. These activities are aimed at preparing the cadet for real-world law enforcement situations once certified.
Classroom Learning and Case Study Analysis
Engage in classroom instruction covering topics such as criminal law, constitutional law, and procedural guidelines. Analyze case studies to understand the application of law enforcement practices and decision-making processes.
Physical Fitness and Tactical Training
Meet physical fitness requirements set by the academy to develop strength, endurance, and agility necessary for the physical demands of law enforcement. Participate in tactical training to learn critical response techniques in various law enforcement scenarios.
Simulation and Role-Playing
Engage in simulated law enforcement scenarios to practice response tactics, decision-making, and communication skills. These scenarios may include mock arrests, traffic stops, and emergency response situations, providing cadets with valuable hands-on experience.
Safety and Equipment Training
Learn the proper use, care, and maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other law enforcement tools, such as firearms and less-lethal devices, as part of the academy’s safety training. Adhere to safety standards and protocols during all training exercises.
Testing and Certification Preparation
Complete all required written and practical tests to demonstrate mastery of academy material, including law enforcement protocols, defensive tactics, and legal procedures. Prepare for POST certification exams by ensuring full comprehension of all training areas.
Behavioral and Ethical Development
Adhere to high standards of professionalism and ethics, both in and outside the academy setting. Develop an understanding of the ethical responsibilities and legal constraints that govern law enforcement officers.
Communication and Reporting Skills
Receive training in effective communication techniques, including report writing, documentation, and verbal communication skills, which are necessary for future law enforcement duties. Develop an understanding of proper documentation practices as required by the academy and POST standards.
Qualifications
The qualifications for this position are designed to provide the necessary foundation to assist with law enforcement duties while preparing for a future police officer role that meets academy and Colorado POST standards.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge
• Understanding of basic law enforcement practices and procedures.
• Familiarity with local, state, and federal laws, especially those related to public safety.
• Basic knowledge of crime prevention and community safety practices.
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and report writing.
• Ability to follow instructions and adhere to department and academy standards.
Abilities
• Ability to meet physical and mental standards set by the Police Academy and Colorado POST.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with the public and fellow officers.
• Attention to detail in administrative tasks, including report preparation and data entry.
• Ability to learn quickly, adapt to new situations, and follow safety protocols.
• Capacity to work as part of a team, assisting officers in various situations.
Education and Special Requirements
Education
• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
Experience
• No prior law enforcement experience required.
• Prior experience in community service, public safety, or similar fields may be beneficial.
Special Requirements
• Valid CO driver’s license (or the ability to obtain one).
• U.S. Citizenship and a minimum age of 21 by the time you take the POST test.
• Ability to meet residency requirements, if applicable.
• Ability to pass background checks and eligibility for future law enforcement certification in line with Colorado POST standards.
What We Offer
As a Cadet (during academy):
- Future-focused – Access to 457(b) deferred compensation plans through Empower and MissionSquare, with both pre-tax and Roth (post-tax) contribution options.
- Health coverage you can trust – Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Peace of mind – City-paid life and AD&D insurance, plus options to add more coverage for you and your family.
- Support when you need it – Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
- Time to recharge – Paid time off starting at 7.39 hours per pay period (and growing with service) plus paid holidays
- Wellness perks – Incentives for participating in wellness activities, and free access for you and your household to the Sterling Recreation Center and Logan County Shooting Range.
- Extra protection – Optional supplemental insurance plans, plus legal and identity protection options.
- Always here for you – 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Program for counseling, resources, and work-life balance support.
Upon Transition to Police Officer (after academy):
- Retirement you can count on – Membership in the Fire & Police Pension Association of Colorado (FPPA), a defined benefit pension plan that provides:
- Guaranteed monthly retirement benefits based on years of service and highest average salary
- Disability and survivor benefits for you and your family
- Optional DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Plan) program once eligible
- Portability options if you leave FPPA-covered employment
- City of Sterling contributes 11% of pay annually (increasing by 0.5% each year until reaching a full 12% match in 2028). Officers contribute 12%.
- FPPA membership replaces Social Security (FICA) contributions.
- Additional retirement savings – Access to 457(b) deferred compensation plans through Empower and MissionSquare, with both pre-tax and Roth (post-tax) contribution options.
- Health coverage you can trust – Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options.
- Peace of mind – City-paid life and AD&D insurance, with options to add supplemental coverage.
- Support when you need it – Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
- Time to recharge – Paid time off starting at 8.11 hours per pay period (and growing with service), plus paid holidays.
- Wellness perks – Free access for you and your household to the Sterling Recreation Center and Logan County Shooting Range, plus wellness incentives.
- Extra protection – Optional supplemental insurance plans, plus legal and identity protection options.
- Always here for you – 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Program offering counseling, resources, and work-life balance support, specifically designed for public safety employees.
Position open until filled – don’t wait!
The City of Sterling is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference.