POLICE OFFICER CADET

General Description

The Police Officer Cadet serves as a City-sponsored student enrolled in a Basic Recruit Training Program at a CJSTC-certified training school. This position involves classroom instruction and limited participation in practical training activities alongside experienced personnel to prepare for the full responsibilities of a Police Officer. Cadets are under close supervision, receiving guidance and instruction on departmental techniques, procedures, and policies.

Cadets may become eligible for appointment as a sworn Police Officer upon successful completion of the Basic Law Enforcement training curriculum. This is a highly responsible position within the City of Miami Gardens, emphasizing community engagement and the protection of life and property. Duties include patrol operations, criminal investigations, community policing efforts, and enforcement of State laws and City ordinances. Assignments may include motorized patrol, traffic enforcement (including motorcycle patrol), bicycle or foot patrol, and code enforcement activities. Work is performed in accordance with Departmental policies and procedures, under the direction of higher-ranking officers. Cadets may also participate in special projects and programs as assigned.

The State of Florida is currently offering a $5,000 after-tax signing bonus for newly certified law enforcement officers hired by a Florida criminal justice agency as part of Governor Ron DeSantis' Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Program. Eligible candidates must:

• Be newly employed as a full-time certified law enforcement officer in Florida on or after July 1, 2022;
• Not have previously served as a law enforcement officer in the State of Florida; and
• Remain continuously employed in good standing for at least two (2) years.

Essential Job Functions

This is not intended as a comprehensive list; it is intended to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may be required to perform all duties listed, and may be required to perform additional, position-specific tasks.

• Timely attends and actively participates in all lectures, demonstrations, practical applications, formations, inspections, examinations, and any other sessions conducted as part of Basic Law Enforcement Courses and required remedial training.
• Upon receiving FDLE State Certification as a Law Enforcement Officer, performs general law enforcement duties including:
• Performing duties under high-risk and stressful conditions;
• Attending all required continuing education and training;
• Maintaining current knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including City of Miami Gardens ordinances;
• May rotate through various assignments, including but not limited to:
• Preparing and submitting required documentation;
• Operating and maintaining proficiency with law enforcement equipment and technology;
• Exercising caution and care in the use of all assigned equipment;
• Maintaining effective communication and working relationships;
• Assisting with code enforcement duties;
• Performing a variety of administrative tasks;
• Performing other related duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of modern law enforcement principles, legal procedures, and community policing practices;
• Skilled in the safe and effective use of firearms, vehicles, radios, and other police equipment;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally with diverse individuals and groups;
• Ability to analyze situations, make sound decisions under pressure, and remain calm in emergencies or high-risk encounters;
• Physically capable of performing demanding law enforcement duties, including pursuit, restraint, and defense.

Minimum Qualifications

• Required Documentation at Time of Application:
• Proof of Employment History;
• Proof of Citizenship (U.S. Birth Certificate, Naturalization Papers, U.S. Passport);
• Name Change Documentation (if applicable);
• High School Diploma or GED Certificate;
• Official College Transcripts (if applicable);
• Military Documentation (DD214 Member-4 Copy);
• City of Miami Gardens Veterans Preference Claim Form;
• City of Miami Gardens Resident Preference Form & Required Proof;
• Signed Social Security Card;
• Valid Florida Driver’s License;
• CJBAT or FBAT Score Sheet;
• Physical Agility Test (PAT) or BMST Score Sheet;
• Proof of Employment History;
• Supplemental Information.