Police Officer Trainee; Police Cadet

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.

Start your law enforcement career while earning a full-time salary
. Our Police Cadet Program allows you to get paid while completing the training required to become a sworn officer. This is your opportunity to build a meaningful career in public service - without waiting until after academy graduation to begin earning.

The City of Gastonia Police Cadet Program is a trainee position designed for individuals interested in law enforcement who have not yet completed Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET). As a Cadet, you will be sponsored to attend BLET — the required academy certification for North Carolina law enforcement officers — while receiving pay and City benefits.

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.

Learn more about BLET by visiting one of our partners, Gaston College, by clicking here.

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 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…