Cadet Program Manager - PPD

The Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) is the nation's fourth largest police department, with over 6,300 sworn members and 800 civilian personnel serving a population of approximately 1.5 million across 140 square miles. The department operates through twenty-one police districts organized into six divisions under two Regional Operations Commands, with personnel assigned across 55 locations and headquarters at 400 North Broad Street.

About the role

The Program Manager for the Police Cadet and Explorers Program is responsible for the daily management, coordination, and long-term success of both initiatives. This role provides strategic direction, operational oversight, and hands-on management to ensure that participants are effectively recruited, developed, and prepared for future law enforcement careers. The Program Manager serves as the central point of contact for program planning, staffing, evaluation, and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Police Cadet and Explorers Program to ensure alignment with the Philadelphia Police Department’s mission and goals.
• Develop and implement strategic plans, policies, and procedures that support program growth and sustainability.
• Recruit, screen, and evaluate program candidates, including coordination of background investigations, in partnership with PPD Human Resources.
• Recommend qualified candidates for hire and coordinate onboarding processes to ensure smooth transitions into the program.
• Supervise clerical positions, providing direction, training, and performance feedback.
• Design and manage rotational assignment schedules that provide cadets exposure to multiple PPD divisions and functions.
• Collaborate with the Police Academy and Recruitment Unit to ensure cadets are adequately prepared for the officer entrance process.
• Track and evaluate cadet progress, maintaining accurate program records, reports, and performance evaluations.
• Collect, analyze, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess program outcomes and ensure goals are met.
• Manage program budget, monitor expenditures, and recommend adjustments to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Serve as liaison to internal and external stakeholders, maintaining strong partnerships to support program success.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

Knowledge

• Program management and evaluation principles
• Workforce development and career pathway programming
• Law enforcement structures, cadet training, and officer entrance standards
• Recruitment, screening, and onboarding processes
• Civil service and exempt hiring practices
• Public sector budgeting and fiscal accountability
• Metrics, KPIs, and data analysis for program outcomes

Skills

• Strategic planning and program development
• Staff supervision, coaching, and mentoring
• Data analysis and performance reporting
• Budget preparation and monitoring
• Written, verbal, and presentation communication
• Relationship building with internal and external partners
• Use of Microsoft Office Suite, HRIS, and tracking systems

Abilities

• Oversee daily operations and multiple priorities
• Manage cadet rotational assignments across divisions
• Collaborate with HR, academy, and leadership teams
• Ensure compliance with policies and background standards
• Monitor cadet progress and adjust programming
• Foster teamwork, inclusivity, and professionalism
• Maintain discretion with sensitive and confidential information

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Human Resources, or related field
• At least 4 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, workforce development, law enforcement, or related area

We value diverse experiences and are open to flexible qualifications. If you are passionate about this role and meet some of the key criteria, we encourage you to apply.

Pay

Salary Range: $75,500 – $94,500

Benefits

• Transportation: Unlimited free public transportation year-round through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program (buses, subways, trolleys, and regional rail for daily commute and more).
• Parental Benefits: 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health coverage for employees and eligible dependents; wellness program with eligibility for discounted medical plan.
• Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement: Generous retirement savings options.
• Student Loan Forgiveness: As a qualifying employer, City of Philadelphia employees are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Tuition Discounts & Scholarships: Partnerships with over a dozen area colleges and universities offering 10%–40% tuition discounts for employees, and in some cases spouses and dependents.

Additional Requirements

• The successful candidate must become a City of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire.
• Effective May 22, 2023, vaccinations are no longer required for new employees in non-medical, non-emergency, or non-patient-facing positions.